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How to Dispute Credit Report Errors
As seen in the Montgomery County News
February 16, 2023
Credit bureaus and the organizations submitting information to them sometimes make mistakes. After obtaining your credit reports, check for inaccuracies. A study by the Federal Trade Commission found that 1-in-4 consumers identified errors on their credit reports that could affect their credit scores. Accounts you don’t recognize could signify identity theft. Monitoring credit reports is an effective way to discover identity theft in its early stages.
What is my Credit Score?
As seen in the Montgomery County News
February 9, 2023
Lenders use credit scores and credit reports, combined with other factors such as a borrower’s income, length of employment, and debt-to-income ratio, to help decide whether to extend credit, how much credit to offer, and what interest rate to charge. A high credit score can make it easier to get a loan, rent an apartment, or qualify for lower insurance rates.
Get Your FREE Annual Credit Reports
As seen in the Montgomery County News
February 2, 2023
Unless you are prepared to make an all-cash offer, the first step in the home buying process is often checking your credit reports. You have a right to see your credit report. The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) requires each credit bureau to provide consumers with a free credit report once a year, upon request. Due to COVID-19 and increased scams, you are entitled to a free copy of your credit reports once a week through December 2023.
Investing in Rental Property
As seen in the Montgomery County News
January 26, 2023
Earning passive income from rental properties is the dream of many looking to invest in real estate. Yet, experienced landlords know managing a rental property requires an active approach. Consider whether you’ll be comfortable in the role of a landlord before adding a rental property to your investment portfolio. Taking care of the property and the tenants can be a 24/7 job that’s sometimes unpleasant. Carefully choosing properties and screening tenants can lower the risk of significant issues. However, being a landlord is a hands-on investment unless you hire a property manager.
Benefits of Spending Time Outdoors in Winter
As seen in the Montgomery County News
January 19, 2023
Three-quarters of American adults say they are interested in nature and enjoy outdoor activities, according to “The Nature of Americans” study. Yet, on average, 90% of our time is spent indoors. The average American spends more than 7 hours a day looking at screens (over 2 hours a day on social media) and gets less than the recommended minimum of 7 hours of sleep. Not getting enough sleep can result in a lack of energy, difficulty remembering things, reduced attention span, slowed thinking, lowered sex drive, poor decision-making, irritability, daytime sleepiness, and other mood changes. Spending time outdoors is good for our mental and physical health – even in winter.
Save Money by Conducting Home Energy Audit
As seen in the Montgomery County News
January 12, 2023
Do you know how much you spend on electricity in a year? The average electric bill for Arkansas residences is $198 per month, or $2,376 per year. A home energy assessment, or home energy audit, is a comprehensive evaluation of your home’s energy usage. It can help you understand how much energy your home uses and identify ways to reduce energy consumption, enabling you to save money on your electric bill. Entergy-Arkansas customers may qualify for a free home energy assessment through the Home Energy Solutions Program. If the audit finds ways to save energy in your home, you will be eligible to receive qualifying core measures installed at no additional cost by a trade ally.
New Year’s Resolutions for Your Home
As seen in the Montgomery County News
January 5, 2023
In January, it is common to focus on health and wellness when making New Year’s resolutions. As we vow to eat healthier, exercise more, and improve our finances, it is also an excellent time to make some resolutions regarding our homes. Reducing energy use at home is one resolution worthy of consideration. Your electric bill is likely to be the highest of all utility bills – fluctuating based on energy prices, the time of year, and usage. The most significant contributor to high electric bills is heating and cooling living spaces.
Recycle Your Christmas Tree as Fish Habitat
As seen in the Montgomery County News
December 22, 2022
Once you’ve decommissioned your Christmas tree, what do you do with it? For real trees, as long as you haven’t sprayed anything on it like artificial snow it can become part of a fish habitat – after you’ve removed all decorations, including lights, ornaments, and tinsel. Christmas trees make excellent nursery habitats for small fish. The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission has drop-off locations where your old Christmas tree can provide underwater cover.
Give Your Home a Smart Thermostat for Christmas
As seen in the Montgomery County News
December 22, 2022
This Christmas, as you enjoy the company of friends and family, share holiday meals, and exchange presents, consider giving your home a gift as well! Keep your home comfy-cozy by installing a smart thermostat. Smart thermostats automatically adjust your heating and cooling systems to keep you comfortable, help you save money on utility bills, and offer protection from cold weather damage by sending status alerts.
Indoor Air Quality Around the Holidays
As seen in the Montgomery County News
December 15, 2022
In colder weather, especially around the holidays, some things we do to help us feel warm and cozy, like putting up a Christmas tree, lighting candles, and burning wood in the fireplace, may have a detrimental effect on our comfort and joy by decreasing Indoor Air Quality, (IAQ).
Christmas Lighting Safety Tips
As seen in the Montgomery County News
December 8, 2022
It’s the holiday season! Time to gather with friends and family, embrace Christmas cheer, and ring in the New Year… safely! Christmas Eve and Christmas Day are among the leading days of the year for home fires. Electrical distribution and lighting equipment are the third leading cause of cold weather home fires. As you decorate your home with Christmas lights, avoid overloading circuits…
Making Your Home's Interior Merry & Bright
As seen in the Montgomery County News
December 1, 2022
When it’s cold outside we tend to spend more time inside. This makes winter a good time to tackle indoor home improvements. Upgrading interior lighting is one of the most immediately impactful and least disruptive projects to undertake. Especially, during the holidays as we ‘deck the halls’ and ‘trim the tree’ with colorful and festive lights.
Thanksgiving Food Safety Tips
As seen in the Montgomery County News
November 24, 2022
The 4 steps to food safety — clean, separate, cook, and chill — are important at every meal. Especially, at Thanksgiving, as many gather together to share meals with friends, family, and loved ones.
Selling Your Home in Winter
As seen in the Montgomery County News
November 17, 2022
As winter approaches, you may be thinking about what you want to accomplish before the year ends. One key decision may be whether or not you want to move. If the location or size of your current home no longer meets your needs, finding a house that’s a better fit for your lifestyle may be a high priority. But in today’s housing market, with winter approaching, is now a good time to sell, or should you wait?
The Secrets to Cold Weather Entertaining
As seen in the Montgomery County News
November 10, 2022
Upon the arrival of cold weather, people tend to move indoors and limit their time spent in the elements. For those who live where there are restrictions placed on indoor entertaining and gatherings, it may be challenging to find ways to spend time safely together as temperatures drop.
Top 3 Interior Renovations for ROI
As seen in the Montgomery County News
November 3, 2022
Homeowners renovate and remodel for various reasons. According to a recent National Association of Realtors (NAR) report, when consumers remodel it is to upgrade worn-out surfaces, finishes, and materials (30 percent), to add features and improve livability (20 percent), and because it is time for a change (16 percent). Whether you’re thinking of selling your house or just like the idea of a return on your investment (ROI), certain home improvements can not only make your house look better, but also increase its market value.
Fire Extinguisher ABC's
As seen in the Montgomery County News
October 27, 2022
Do you have fire extinguishers in your home? More importantly, do you know where your fire extinguishers are located?
Not all fire extinguishers are the same. Portable fire extinguishers are classified by the type of fire they are designed to extinguish. There are five basic classes: A, B, C, D, and K.
Cold Weather Fire Prevention Tips
As seen in the Montgomery County News
October 20, 2022
Serious home fires are more likely to occur during colder months due to the use of heating systems and temporary heat sources. Home heating is the second leading cause of home fires. No matter what kind of heating system you have, it’s important to perform preventive maintenance tasks and follow fire prevention advice.
Fire Prevention Week
As seen in the Montgomery County News
October 13, 2022
October 9-15, 2022 marks the 100th anniversary of the National Fire Protection Association’s (NFPA) Fire Prevention Week. The goal is to raise fire safety awareness and help ensure your home and family are protected.
Preparing Your Fireplace for Winter
As seen in the Montgomery County News
October 6, 2022
Before you light up your fireplace (or wood stove) for the first time this season, prepare for a safe experience by being proactive about fireplace maintenance…
September Home Maintenance Checklist
As seen in the Montgomery County News
September 29, 2022
As September comes to a close and the days become cooler and shorter, don’t forget to keep up with seasonal home maintenance…
Fall Home Improvements
As seen in the Montgomery County News
September 22, 2022
Just as spring is a good time of year to give your home a thorough cleaning, fall is a great time to tackle some home improvement projects. When the heat of summer passes and before the chill of winter arrives, there’s a window of opportunity to protect and beautify your home…
Build or Buy?
As seen in the Montgomery County News
September 15, 2022
If your dream home doesn’t exist in your dream location you may consider buying land on which to build or place a new home. Perhaps, you’ve already purchased land and are eager to call it home. Next, you’ll need to decide whether to build a house or buy a prefabricated house…
Do You Want to Buy Land?
As seen in the Montgomery County News
September 8, 2022
If your ideal home doesn’t include nearby neighbors, you may be thinking of buying land where you can build a new house or set up a prefabricated (mobile, modular, or manufactured) home. Buying raw land is different from buying an existing home. Some factors to consider include financing, restrictions, access, and utilities…
3 Tips for Home Sellers
As seen in the Montgomery County News
September 1, 2022
Today’s housing market is full of unprecedented opportunities. High buyer demand paired with record-low housing inventory has created a seller’s market – making it a good time to sell. Three things to keep in mind as you consider listing your home for sale are objectivity, pricing, and staging…
Minor Issues Add Up to Big Deterrent for Home Buyers
As seen in the Montgomery County News
August 18, 2022
Once you’ve checked deep cleaning, decluttering, and basic yard care off your pre-listing priority list, it’s time to look at functionality.
Start with the basics. Before performing major upgrades, like installing new flooring, take note of smaller items needing attention. Begin at your front door and do a walk through, going from room to room, looking for issues as if you were a potential buyer.
Best Home Improvements to Maximize Return On Investment (ROI)
As seen in the Montgomery County News
August 4, 2022
Looking for the best home improvements to maximize return on investment (ROI) and attract more potential buyers? Deep cleaning, decluttering, and basic yard care are the most impactful and cost-effective choices.
Buyers’ top priorities are cleanliness, functionality, and energy efficiency, in that order – according to a report by iPropertyManagement. Be sure to keep these elements in mind as you prepare your house for market.
Have You Taken a Rain Shower?
As seen in the Montgomery County News
July 28, 2022
With relentless summer heat and increasing drought conditions, it seems we’re all looking forward to a rain shower. The kind that falls from the sky to benefit our gardens, lawns, crops, and livestock. Outside, where weather belongs. But, what about inside? Have you experienced a rain shower indoors? Rain shower heads are increasingly considered a must-have in many new construction and bathroom renovation plans.
Short-Term Rental Management Services
As seen in the Montgomery County News
July 14, 2022
With all of the tasks that come with running a short-term rental business, property owners wishing to keep their investment as passive as possible may consider turning to a property management company.
Ouachita Real Estate now offers Short-Term Rental Management Services to help property owners with these tasks. Contact Edwenna Rowland for details.
Tips for Home Buyer's in a Seller's Market
As seen in the Montgomery County News
July 7, 2022
A combination of factors, including low interest rates and a pandemic-driven decision by many city dwellers to look for houses in the suburbs, has created a housing boom for much of 2020 and 2021. That boom has created an undeniable seller’s market in real estate. So where does this leave buyers interested in relocating? Here are some tips.
Tips to Prepare for your Next Big Home Project
As seen in the Montgomery County News
June 30, 2022
The planning process is one of the most exciting parts of a home renovation project, and with social distancing keeping us home more, now is the time to dream big and get ready. Whether it’s a basement makeover, a pool addition or even building a new house from scratch, here are some tips to get started:
What to Plant When Privacy is a Priority
As seen in the Montgomery County News
June 23, 2022
A backyard oasis can feel like an even more welcoming retreat when the area is private. Homeowners and their families often find that a backyard is most relaxing when they cannot hear or see their neighbors, and creating such an environment can be as simple as planting some privacy trees.
When planting privacy trees, homeowners can consider these varieties that can do the job while also providing some aesthetic appeal.
How to Prepare Landscapes for New Plants
As seen in the Montgomery County News
June 16, 2022
New plants can add much to a landscape. Whether they’re replacing plants that are no longer thriving or being added to supplement an existing landscape, new plants are an affordable way to give a home’s exterior a whole new look.
Affordable Ways to make Homes more Appealing to Modern Buyers
As seen in the Montgomery County News
June 2, 2022
Warm weather means more time to relax outdoors. For those homeowners lucky enough to have entertaining spaces outside, spring and summer provides plenty of opportunities to enjoy fresh air under the sun or stars.
Turn Your Yard into a Vacation Worthy Oasis
As seen in the Montgomery County News
June 2, 2022
Warm weather means more time to relax outdoors. For those homeowners lucky enough to have entertaining spaces outside, spring and summer provides plenty of opportunities to enjoy fresh air under the sun or stars.
Budget-friendly Ways to Upgrade a Landscape
As seen in the Montgomery County News
May 19, 2022
Landscaping projects run the gamut from simple changes that can be accomplished on a weekend afternoon to more significant and costly undertakings that require the work of a professional. Budget-conscious homeowners may be looking for simpler projects, and the following are some less costly ways to upgrade a landscape.
Outdoor Improvements that Boost Home Value
As seen in the Montgomery County News
May 5, 2022
Whether home improvement projects are designed to improve the interior or exterior of a house, focusing on renovations that make the most financial sense can benefit homeowners in the long run. The right renovations can be assets if and when homeowners decide to sell their homes. The following outdoor projects are just a few renovations that tend to add value.
How to Cut Costs on Home Renovations
As seen in the Montgomery County News
April 20, 2022
Home improvement projects come in all shapes and sizes — some with huge budgets and others that are more cost-conscious. Regardless of what homeowners hope to achieve with their renovations, a common goal across any price point is a desire to save as much money as possible. There are ways to cut costs.
How to Pick the Right Trees for Your Property
As seen in the Montgomery County News
March 2, 2022
Trees benefit a landscape by serving both aesthetic and utilitarian functions. A home surrounded by healthy green trees can be a sight to behold, and those same trees can benefit surrounding plants and wildlife at the same time. As appealing as trees are, not all trees and landscapes make for the perfect match.
Common Sustainable Agriculture Practices
As seen in the Montgomery County News
February 24, 2022
The concept of sustainability varies by industry. Within the agricultural industry, sustainability is a multifaceted concept that has become increasingly popular in recent decades.
Tips for Negotiating with Contractors
As seen in the Montgomery County News
February 17, 2022
Spring is the season for fixing up a home. Homeowners who aren’t interested in doing the work themselves turn to contractors to ensure the job is done not only to code, but on time and efficiently. After receiving an initial estimate from a contractor, homeowners may wonder if there is any additional wiggle room in contractors’ costs.
Pros and Cons to Open Concept Homes
As seen in the Montgomery County News
February 10, 2022
Open-concept homes have become increasingly popular in recent years. An open-concept home is one in which the rooms flow into one another with limited obstruction from walls or other barriers.
7 Things to Know Before Replacing Windows
As seen in the Montgomery County News
February, 2022
The decision to replace windows often comes down to aesthetics and necessity. Drafty windows can reduce energy efficiency in a home, requiring HVAC systems to work harder to keep interiors comfortable. The harder the HVAC must work, the more homeowners will pay in energy costs.
How to Determine if it's Time to Downsize
As seen in the Montgomery County News
January 13, 2022
Individuals work hard to save enough money to purchase their homes. And the hard work doesn’t end there. Once homeowners settle into a new home, they may set their sights on renovations that suit their individual needs. And even when buyers find a home that needs no such work, maintenance requires homeowners’ utmost attention…
How Builders can Keep Radon From Entering a Home
As seen in the Montgomery County News
January 06, 2022
As the world has changed, so, too, have home buyers. The home buyers of today typically want homes that align with life in the 21st century. That means extra outlets for all of our devices and homes pre-wired for high speed internet access…
Small Kitchen Improvements That Maximize Functionality
As seen in the Montgomery County News
December 30, 2021
Many homeowners wish for expansive kitchens. Modernized kitchens that include sought after features and showcase the latest trends go a long way to improving the overall value of a home.
How to cut Costs on Home Renovations
As seen in the Montgomery County News
December 23, 2021
Do you still have an avocado green kitchen? Is your living room dank and dark? Perhaps there is only one bathroom for a family of six? Answering yes to any of these questions could serve as the catalyst for a home renovation project.
Tips For First-Time Real Estate Investors
As seen in the Montgomery County News
December 16, 2021
Real estate can be a good investment that helps build wealth and secure a financial future.
How Small Businesses Can Support And Help Each Other Grow
As seen in the Montgomery County News
December 09, 2021
Small businesses play a vital role in economies across the globe.
Meet Our New Agent Mattie Fiorello
As seen in the Montgomery County News
December 02, 2021
Our new agent, Mattie is born and raised in Mount Ida. Her roots run deep here. She loves Montgomery County, Lake Ouachita, and all the area has to offer.
Making the Best of a Small Dining Space
As seen in the Montgomery County News
November 25, 2021
Some homeowners may aspire to have expansive dining rooms replete with seating for 12 beneath a stunning chandelier. That kind of space certainly makes hosting dinner parties easier. However, modern homes typically have small dining rooms that require homeowners or renters to be resourceful when entertaining guests.
Responsible Building Decisions Deserve Benefits, too
As seen in the Montgomery County News
November 18, 2021
Beauty, spaciousness and interior design are all important when building a personal dream home. Today, however, with the reality of energy and environmental concerns, homeowners also insist their forever home must be as eco-responsible as possible. And it turns out many decisions initially based on being environmentally friendly can deliver unexpected aesthetic results, too.
Budget-Friendly Dining Room Renovation Ideas
As seen in the Montgomery County News
November 04, 2021
If the kitchen is the heart of the home, then the dining room may be akin to one of its arteries. The mood created in the kitchen spreads to the dining space where family and friends gather to eat and enjoy one another’s company. Dining rooms can get lost in the home renovation shuffle, as many homeowners tend to focus on renovating kitchens and bathrooms instead. Homeowners do not have to invest a lot of money in renovations to give their dining spaces awe-inspiring makeovers. Here’s how to do so on a budget.
Tips to Carve the Perfect Jack-o-lantern
As seen in the Montgomery County News
October 28, 2021
Jack-o-lanterns are one of many indelible symbols of Halloween. It’s hard to pinpoint the precise origins of jack-o-lanterns, but many historians trace the tradition to 19th century Ireland. In fact, this instantly recognizable staple of Halloween décor actually gets its name from an Irish folktale character named “Stingy Jack”.
Must-Have Features in Your Bathroom Remodel
As seen in the Montgomery County News
October 21, 2021
Veteran homeowners recognize the value of remodeling their kitchens and bathrooms. Kitchens and baths tend to appear dated more quickly than other spaces such as living rooms and bedrooms, which can always be revamped with some fresh paint and new furnishings.
Top Tips to Stay Safe This Halloween Season
As seen in the Montgomery County News
October 14, 2021
Much like Christmas, Halloween is no longer relegated to a single day. A number of Halloween enthusiasts now begin decorating at the start of October. Hijinks and autumn revelry fill the air as individuals eagerly count down to the end of the month.
Reduce Cold Weather Fire Risks
As seen in the Montgomery County News
October 07, 2021
Plenty of things heat up when the temperature drops, including the risk for fire hazards. Fireplaces, stoves, heating systems, candles and even electric lights are used more often during the winter than any other time of year, so it makes sense that the risk of home fires increases when the mercury drops.
Six Home Trends to Consider
As seen in the Montgomery County News
September 30, 2021
Home design and real estate trends come and go, but once in awhile certain concepts exhibit considerable staying power. Staying abreast of what’s hot and what’s not can be a bit overwhelming. This list breaks down some of the trends that have made a splash and figure to be around for some time.
Welcome Aboard Tisha Sommerkorn
As seen in the Montgomery County News
November 19, 2020
Ouachita Real Estate is proud to welcome Tisha Sommerkorn as our new real estate agent. Thisa is a lifelong multi-generational Oden, Arkansas resident with deep roots in the area going back to the early 1900’s. Living with her husband and raising three children on ther family farm offers Tisha a unique perspective on farm and ranch sales.
Mount Ida Area Chamber Welcomes Ouachita Real Estate with Ribbon Cutting
March 26, 2020
The Mount Ida Area Chamber of Commerce and Ouachita Real Estate hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony Thursday, March 19, to celebrate the grand opening of Montgomery County’s newest real estate business.