Hot days are gone and the average temperature, where I live in North Carolina, is in the low 70s with much cooler evenings. This means it is time to change our outdoor space from summer to fall. This can be achieved by adding some decorative touches, but mostly by adding a heat source so no one gets chilly while we hangout. Here are a few options:
Firepit
Wood-burning firepits are popular, for some there is nothing like the smell of burning wood on a cool evening. However, I’m not a fan of building a fire and all the cleanup that follows – so for me, I love a gas fireplace table. There are numerous types of firepits, choose the one that suits you best and enjoy.
Patio Heater
When it gets even more chilly through the season, use a patio heater. These can be either gas or electric and vary in size. I love when a restaurant has them and you can enjoy a cozy night with friends over drinks and charceuterie.
Outdoor Fireplace
You can have a custom fireplace built in your outdoor space. These fireplaces are much larger than firepits and can warm a large area. The only drawback, for me, is it is there all year long. Unlike a gas fireplace table that is smaller, decorative and gives off some heat, I can’t see many using a wood burning fireplace on those hot July nights.
As the leaves begin to change and the crisp Autumn air settles in, a homeowner may wonder if the Fall is the right time to sell their home. While Spring and Summer are thought of as peak seasons for real estate, selling in the Fall can be a smart and strategic choice. Let’s explore the advantages of selling in the Fall, plus I’ll share some tips for making the most of the season.
Curb Appeal in Full Bloom
One of the undeniable benefits of selling your home in the Fall is the stunning display of colors that nature provides. Consider planting fall flowers like mums and asters, and decorate your porch with pumpkins and seasonal wreaths to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere for potential buyers.
Comfortable Weather
Fall weather has milder temperatures, making it more comfortable for both buyers and sellers. Unlike the scorching heat of Summer, Fall provides the perfect backdrop for showcasing your home. Buyers are more likely to linger and explore your property when they’re not battling the hot sun and sweat.
Serious Buyers
While Spring and Summer may attract more casual house hunters, those searching for a new home in the Fall are often more serious about making a move. Many buyers aim to complete their transactions before the holiday season and the end of the year, which means they are motivated and focused. This can lead to quicker sales and potentially more favorable offers.
Less Competition
With fewer sellers putting their homes on the market in the Fall, your property may stand out more among the available listings. Buyers have fewer options to choose from, increasing the chances of your home receiving more attention. This reduced competition can sometimes result in a better sale price.
Showcase Cozy Features
Fall is the perfect time to highlight the cozy aspects of your home. Consider lighting a fire in the fireplace, arranging warm blankets on the couch, and brewing a pot of cider or coffee for potential buyers during open houses. Creating a comfortable and inviting ambiance can help buyers envision themselves enjoying the home during the colder months.
Challenges to Consider
While selling your home in the Fall has its advantages, there are also some potential challenges to be aware of:
Fading Daylight: With shorter daylight hours, it’s important to schedule showings and open houses during optimal times to showcase your home in the best light.
Yard Maintenance: Falling leaves can create additional yard maintenance tasks. Regularly clean up leaves and keep walkways clear to ensure your property looks well-kept.
Holiday Distractions: The holiday season can be a busy and distracting time for both buyers and sellers. It’s important to strike a balance between decorating for the season and keeping your home presentable.
Selling your home in the Fall can be a wise decision, given the unique advantages this season offers. With its beautiful foliage, comfortable weather, and motivated buyers, the Fall real estate market can be a lucrative opportunity for those looking to sell their homes. By embracing the season and working with a knowledgeable real estate agent, like me, (Lora Rousseau with Weichert, Realtors® – Team Metro), together we can successfully navigate the Autumn market and secure a sale that leaves both you and the buyer happy!
8 semi-soft peaches with their pits removed Kosher salt ¼ cup aged balsamic vinegar, plus more for drizzling 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 8 ounces bocconcini 1/2 cup fresh basil 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling Fresh cracked black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
On a large plate drizzle the balsamic vinegar. Season the peaches with kosher salt.
In a nonstick pan, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the peaches cut side down and sear for 3 minutes. To prevent the peaches from sticking jiggle the pan now and then. Lift a peach to make sure it is browning, don’t let them burn. Once they are browned, remove the pan from the heat and place the peaches cut side down in the balsamic vinegar on the plate.
Let the peaches soak up some of the yumminess for a minute . Return the peaches to the hot pan cut side down, and cook over medium-low heat for another minute. Then put back on the plate with the balsamic vinegar. Let them rest for 2 minutes.
Return to the hot pan again for the third time, cook for one more minutes. Put the peaches back on the plate, cut side down, and put in the fridge for 20 minutes.
Cut the chilled peaches into quarters and place them on a clean plate with the bocconcini. Season with a bit more kosher salt, then add some fresh pepper. Make it look appetizing and pretty by tucking the basil in between the peaches and cheese. Drizzle generously with extra-virgin olive oil and a bit more balsamic vinegar.
As most of you know I always like to change recipes. I’ve made these yummy peaches a few times and have drifted off the original recipe to this version. The original recipe is from “Listen to Your Vegetables” by Sarah Grueneberg and Kate Heddings. It’s a great book!
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