Mrs. Make It Happen

  If you live along the coast of North Carolina or Georgia, you’ve likely noticed your property insurance premiums climbing—sometimes by hundreds or even thousands of dollars per year. These increases are not random. They’re the result of rising climate risks, storm damage claims, and insurers pulling back from high-risk areas. For many homeowners, this has created serious financial strain and uncertainty about the future. Let’s look at what’s driving these rising costs and, more importantly, what you can do to protect your finances and your home. Why Property Insurance Costs Are Rising Severe Weather and Flood Risk Hurricanes, tropical storms, and flooding have become more frequent and more intense. Insurers are adjusting rates to cover the higher cost of claims and reinsurance—the insurance that insurance companies buy. Reinsurance Costs and Withdrawals As major reinsurance companies raise their prices or leave coastal markets altogether, smaller insurers in NC and GA...

Making the Right Move for Your Home and Finances If you own a home in Charlotte, NC or Atlanta, GA , you’re sitting in two of the South’s hottest real estate markets. Both cities have seen incredible growth over the past decade — with new jobs, expanding suburbs, and a steady stream of newcomers looking for places to live. But as life changes — maybe you’re relocating, upgrading, or downsizing — you might find yourself wondering: Should I sell my home or rent it out? Let’s explore the pros and cons of each option so you can make a confident decision. Selling: A Fresh Start and Financial Reset The Benefits Immediate Cash Flow: Selling gives you instant access to your home’s equity — money you can use for your next purchase, to pay off debt, or invest elsewhere. No Landlord Stress: You avoid the ongoing responsibility of maintenance, tenant management, and potential vacancies. Favorable Market Conditions: Charlotte and Atlanta have remained seller-friendly, with deman...

Owning a vacant home in Clayton, North Carolina might seem harmless — no tenants, no wear and tear, and time to decide what to do next. But keeping a property empty for too long can quietly drain your finances and lower its value. Vacant home in Clayton NC representing hidden maintenance costs and financial risks. 1. Maintenance Costs of a Vacant Home in Clayton, NC Even when no one lives in a home, humidity, leaks, and pests can cause damage that worsens with time. A small roof leak or clogged gutter left unattended can lead to mold or costly repairs later. 2. Insurance and Liability Concerns Standard homeowners insurance often won’t cover long-term vacancies. A vacant home policy usually costs more, and if someone trespasses and gets hurt, you could still be liable. Vacant home interior showing why specialized insurance coverage is needed.” 3. Property Taxes and Utility Fees Taxes continue whether the home is lived in or not. In Clayton and Johnston County , recent prope...

  Q: What happens if I sell a probate property in North Carolina? A: Selling a probate property in North Carolina involves a few legal steps but can be much smoother than many expect—especially if you choose the right approach. When a loved one passes away, their estate may go through probate , a process to validate the will, pay debts, and distribute assets, including real estate. Once the court appoints an executor or administrator, that person can move forward with selling the property. The sale must typically follow the court’s guidelines, ensuring all heirs are notified and the transaction is transparent. For many families, selling the home as-is for cash becomes the best option. Probate homes often need repairs or updates, and waiting months for a traditional buyer can add stress and financial strain. Selling directly to a cash buyer allows you to skip the repairs, avoid showings, and close quickly—often within days once probate requirements are met. After the sale, the...

Inheriting a property in North Carolina can be both a blessing and a burden. It may come with cherished memories and family history, but it can also bring unexpected costs, maintenance issues, or emotional challenges. Whether you live nearby or across the country, deciding what to do next— sell, rent, or keep the property —is a major decision that deserves thoughtful consideration. 1. Assess the Property’s Condition and Location Before making any decision, start with a clear understanding of the home’s physical state and market potential. Inspect for needed repairs — foundation, roof, plumbing, or outdated systems. Consider the neighborhood — is it appreciating, stable, or declining? Evaluate convenience — are you close enough to manage it yourself, or would you rely on contractors? A detailed inspection helps uncover whether keeping or renting the property is financially feasible—or if selling “as-is” might be the most practical path. 2. Understand the Financial ...

For many homeowners, the idea of downsizing can feel complicated. On one hand, there’s the comfort and memories tied to a larger home. On the other, there’s the promise of simplicity, reduced costs, and a lifestyle that better fits your current stage of life. In Wilmington, NC, downsizing isn’t about losing space—it’s about finding the right space. This coastal city, with its vibrant culture and charming neighborhoods, offers the perfect backdrop for homeowners seeking a fresh start in a smaller home. The Emotional Side of Downsizing Downsizing often stirs up emotions. A bigger home might hold years of memories, making it hard to think about leaving. But a shift in perspective can help—downsizing is really about right-sizing. It allows you to move into a home that supports your lifestyle today while reducing the stress and expenses of maintaining more than you need. In Wilmington, that can mean trading extra square footage for walks along Wrightsville Beach, exploring the Riverwalk...

Relocation in Raleigh often comes with tight deadlines and unexpected challenges. Whether it’s for a new job, military deployment, or a family move, the last thing you need is to be stuck waiting for months to sell your home. If you’re searching for answers on how to sell your house fast in Raleigh before relocating , you’re not alone. Many homeowners in Wake County face the same struggle, but the good news is there are solutions designed to simplify the process. Why Selling Quickly Matters During Relocation A delayed home sale in Raleigh can create both financial and emotional stress . Imagine paying two mortgages or juggling rent in your new city while your old house sits unsold. This situation is more common than you might think—and it drains both your budget and peace of mind. Selling quickly allows you to: Avoid double housing payments. Eliminate the burden of repairs or showings. Focus on your relocation without loose ends holding you back. Traditional Sale vs. ...

  Introduction If you’re thinking about selling your home in Georgia, one of the first questions that may cross your mind is: “Do I need to fix everything before I sell?” For many homeowners, this decision can feel overwhelming. Repairs and upgrades cost money, take time, and add stress—yet you want to attract buyers and get the best return possible. The good news is that you don’t have to fix everything before putting your house on the market. The right choice depends on your goals, your budget, and how quickly you want to sell. Let’s explore your options so you can make an informed decision. The Short Answer: No, You Don’t Have to Fix Everything There’s no law or rule that requires you to repair every issue before selling your home in Georgia. Whether you’re in Atlanta, Savannah, Augusta, Macon, or smaller towns across the state, the decision comes down to how you want to approach the sale. Option 1: Traditional Sale – Fixing for Maximum Value If your goal is to get the...

  When it comes to selling your home, first impressions matter. Buyers often decide within moments if a house feels right for them. But you don’t need a professional staging company or a huge budget to make your property stand out. With some creativity and thoughtful preparation, you can stage your home affordably while still leaving a lasting impression on buyers. Why Budget-Friendly Staging Works Staging isn’t about spending thousands of dollars—it’s about showcasing your home’s best features. A few simple, cost-effective updates can: Make rooms appear larger and brighter Help buyers imagine themselves living in the space Increase perceived value without major renovations Speed up offers and shorten your time on the market As someone who works closely with homeowners across North Carolina and Georgia, I’ve seen how small, budget-conscious staging choices often create the biggest impact. 1. Declutter and Depersonalize The cheapest way to stage is by removing excess it...