Zero in on home needs...?
Before you start your search for a new home, take the time to counsel with your Realtor. This is the time to really open up and share your thoughts, dreams and desires. One fun way to determine which houses would fit your needs, is to take a piece of paper and draw a “T” on it. The left side of the “T” is for the things you absolutely have to have in a house, and on the right side the things you would like to have. Do this with your spouse or partner without each other seeing your answers. When you have both finished, compare your answers. Most people are amazed how different each other’s desires really are. Now, make another “T” and this time get together and compromise to come out with a “T” that is comfortable for each party.
In addition, you are doing yourself a favor if you also meet with a bank or mortgage company to determine your purchasing power prior to viewing homes. Knowing your purchasing power will save you time and also provide you a competitive advantage.
When your Realtor shows you homes, be sure to communicate your likes and dislikes about the inside and outside of the house. The Realtor is not the owner of the property and therefore does not care if you say any negative comments concerning the house.
And here is your morning coffee...
INSPIRATION FOR TODAY:
It droppeth as the gentle rain from heaven
Upon the place beneath: it is twice bless'd;
It blesseth him that gives and him that takes."
GOBBLE! GOBBLE!
Remember when you were a teenager leaving the house on a date? Your parents' last words as you went out the door were, "We'll leave the light on for you". Think about that. So what if they did or didn't leave the light on? Their words were really more of a verbal hug. They cared about you - wanted you to know it - and applied the hug with kind words.
With Thanksgiving in just a few days, why not take the time to "leave the light on" for someone who may not get many hugs? There's still time, and it's easy.
First, learn who needs hugs. Check with your local fire, police, or sheriff's department. Ask whether they know of three or four families or individuals who could use a hug. Ask also whether they would consider delivering your hugs at the appropriate time. Two groups stand out as needy - the elderly and families with small children. Of course, we're talking about individuals who are experiencing difficult circumstances in their lives, be they physical or financial.
Next, consider what type of hugs you have to offer. Perhaps you might prepare three or four Thanksgiving turkeys with all the trimmings. Live in the country where people heat their homes with a wood stove? Deliver firewood. Live in a cold climate? Add some warm socks or a sweater to your dinner box. It's really not that difficult to come up with ideas that would make a difference to your chosen recipients. If you aren't able to provide "things," consider visiting with some nursing home residents. Brighten their day by listening for a while.
It goes without saying that our country is truly blessed. Although practically invisible to most of us, however, there are some individuals who are being challenged. They need a hug, and we can brighten their lives by way of simple gestures. Make a family project out of it - involve your kids. Do it anonymously. Afterwards, when you get home, we'll leave the light on for you!
