Chic vs. Geek: Keeping Clutter Off Your Countertop

It seems like every time we need something in the kitchen, we can’t find it because of all the appliances, trays, bowls, and other stuff taking up our countertops. So how do we cope?

CHIC (PEARL)

Anyone who tells you kitchens are supposed to be messy never had to clean up after family dinner! Personally, I need some motivation to keep my surfaces clear. So I try to add some style to kitchen organizing, like fancy jars for non-perishable ingredients, dividers for frequently-used utensils, and elegant hanging racks for pots and pans.

GEEK (KEVIN)

There is no reason you can’t solve your kitchen clutter issues with some very simple storage strategy. Figure out where and when you need this pot or that spatula, and find a drawer or cabinet to store them when they’re not in use while keeping them readily accessible when you’re in the heat of your culinary artistry. It will save you time and stress!

Agent-to-Agent Gratitude

It was such a nice surprise to receive this thank you card — and a Starbucks gift card — from the listing agent for a seller who ended up not accepting my buyer’s offer. There were four total offers on the property, and I stayed in close communication with the agent to make sure our offer was competitive.

The buyer didn’t want to go any higher and ended up walking away, but the seller’s agent could see how hard I worked for my client and thought I could use a coffee break. I appreciate the gesture, especially in this tough market. It was a true class act, and I hope to return the favor or pay it forward.

Thanks to all hard-working agents who fight for their clients while respecting each other and the process!

Geek's Number Talk: Decarbonizing Real Estate

More than 60% of carbon emissions in cities come from buildings, which is just one reason why there’s an international movement to decarbonize real estate through zoning codes, building standards, incentives, and more tools. Read this dispatch from the World Economic Forum annual conference.

Chic vs. Geek: Go Green to Save Green!

We know that decarbonizing our lifestyles is an important part of fighting climate change, but what about our homes?

CHIC (PEARL)

If you want to reduce your energy use and bring a brighter touch to your home, invest in a skylight or move some windows to capture light at different times of day. In addition to warming up the aesthetics, these “passive solar” steps reduce the need for costly artificial lighting during the day. You can also invest in awnings, shutters, and curtains to control the light and heat in your home.

GEEK (KEVIN)

Natural light helps you see, but how can you survive without natural gas? Think about going electric with a heat pump for heating, cooling, and water heating. Replacing your gas stove with an induction version is another smart investment, and it won’t blow you up! Energy upgrades like this can get expensive, but there are government incentives to help, and the savings pay back the costs in short order.

Client Story: Sumi Lim

We’re grateful for all of our clients, and we treat them like family. But you don’t have to take our word for it. Learn about Sumi’s journey, and read more testimonials.