The Curious Mom: Search results for property

Condos for sale in Santa Monica

Jun 19, 2018

People often do online shopping so that they can carry out various comparison and look for the different varieties and options available. The online market provides buyers with the ease of checking various web site for the same product along with the details of the product and price that are competitive in numbers. This makes it easy to know the options and make a smart purchase all together.

Also, comparing between the various sellers is easy when done online. One does not have to hop from shop to shop and get tired in buying some simple items. This is the major reason why online shopping is gaining popularity by every passing day. Similarly, there are other things too that a person might like to look for in life. For example- a first hand or second hand car, a property, any other repairing services etc. a person looking for a home or a property would agree to the fact that making deals in the real estate world without compromising with any legal formats and rules can be a tough job.

What Is a Wise Real Estate Investment?

Jul 21, 2017

Pexels

The real estate industry is always changing. This sounds somewhat trite, and maybe a little obvious, but an alarming amount of people don’t really see this industry as something that changes all that often. Sure, we know that prices will go up and down, but, in general, the way that business is conducted is basically the same throughout the climbs and sharp descents that the market throws their way. But this outlook often comes from a misunderstanding of what it is that drives real estate costs.

Ask just about anyone and the odds are that they’ll have the same idea about what it is that ultimately determines the value of a given property: location, location, location. Sure, buyers aren’t going to be willing to fork over too much if, say, the roof is caving in, even if the area is nice. But even a bad property can go for a price that will make the landlord rich if the property is in the right location. All you’ve got to do is look at the prices that apartments you could almost label ‘decrepit’ go for in places like New York City and central London go for to see that location often supersedes all other factors.

Why Real Estate With A Few Acres Is So Desired

Apr 9, 2019

Stop what you’re doing for a moment and think about your perfect home. It's often called the dream home exercise where you consider what your ideal home would look like. No doubt you probably have a direct view on what the decor would be like, how many rooms you will have, the overall size of the house as well. But what about the outside? No, not the garden but the land and space around the home itself? This is where you will need to stretch your imagination as the land around the home is just as important as the home itself. Gardens are one thing but what about fields, rivers, lakes, hills, trees and even forests around the home that you own? Surely this is something you would like as part of your property, an area that is a merging of land and property. This kind of large real estate is greatly desired by many different kinds of people, all for the same reasons.

Taking a stroll where you please

The best thing about having a few acres to yourself is, having a nice long walk on your land without ever being in public or someone else’s private property. You can go walking in the morning and never run by the same tree or fence post twice, and still be on your own land. It gives you great peace of mind to know that you have so much free space, open air and a multitude of different views. You never have to leave your property to be at one with nature and wildlife, you’re constantly surrounded by fields, trees and sometimes even moving water. If you want, you can go for a picnic out in the fields during summertime and not have to worry about getting moved off the premises when the sun goes down.

Finding Your Dream Home: What To Look For (And What To Avoid)

Oct 22, 2021

Buying a house is a difficult decision to make. It takes a lot of money. But your emotions are wrapped up in the purchase too. Which can lead to some difficulties. Especially when we stumble across what we think is our dream home. We have a tendency to look past evidence that might point to underlying problems. And that can lead to more than just a headache down the line.

When looking around your prospective new home, you’ll need to get the microscope out. No matter how much you love it. There are lots of major issues to look out for. But some fly under the radar too.

Here you’ll find 6 good things to look out for when purchasing a property. And 6 things that you’ll want to steer clear of.

Image by Karolina Grabowska via Pexels

The Good

Inspecting property isn’t all about looking out for the bad. It’s also about looking out for positives that should make you look on a property more favorably.

Room Size

Good room size is always something you’ll want to look out for. Measure your furniture before you go and take the tape measure with you to the viewings. That way, you’ll know if your life fits in before you commit to buying.

Neighborhood

Location is everything when buying a home. Everyone talks about watching out for ‘bad’ neighborhoods, but you want to look out for good too. If it has excellent transport links and good schools, it should go up in your estimation.

Potential

Making sure you fit in a home at the moment is important. So is seeing if that property has the potential to extend along with your life. It’s much easier to extend a current home than get back out onto the property market.

Garden

Having green space is hard to find. Anywhere with room to roam outside is definitely a winner. Not only does it tack onto having the potential to extend, but it’s also good for the mind and soul just to have outdoor space to call your own.

Security

Assess how secure the property you’re viewing is. If there’s a security system already installed, then you’re onto the winner. Intruder alarms, security lights, and fire alarms should all be top of the list.

Efficiency

Looking after the planet is on the top of everyone’s list. So a house that runs efficiently is a positive in anyone’s book.

The Bad

There are always things that we need to keep an eye out for when viewing a property. And that’s because they could signal underlying problems that you won’t want to deal with in a year.

Fixer-Uppers

Everyone loves a good project. But committing to something that will last years might not be exactly what you signed up for. It’s easy to underestimate the costs of renovating. If you’re going for a fixer-upper, make sure to ask enough questions, so you know you’re able to commit. If not, steer clear.

Flood Plains

If your potential home is on a flood plain, make sure you know what you’re getting into. It can lead to you having a flooded home if there’s nothing already in place to avoid such an event. Talk to your realtor so you can assess the risk. If you’re unsure of anything, then don’t buy.

Damp

Damp is a big red flag. Thankfully, there are lots of ways to recognize if a home has damp. Look for mildew, peeling wallpaper, blistering paint, discoloration, and mould. Some owners are happy to take it on if they understand the risks. But don’t feel forced into handling it if you’re not prepared.

Condensation

Condensation on windows can be an indicator of poor insulation. And poor insulation can be costly to fix. Take a minute to check the double glazing and condition of the windows. This will help you figure out what sort of price insulating the home will be.

Structural

Structural problems will cost you a fortune. Look out for big cracks and weak joints. But if you’re unsure, hire a surveyor before you commit to a purchase. You may not like the sound of an outlay cost for a surveyor, but it costs less than a complete structural refit.

Questions

The biggest thing to avoid when purchasing property is not asking enough questions. Go in with a list of everything you want to know. And even some things you think are pointless. No question is too much.

Image by SHVETS Productions via Pexels

The Wrap Up

Finding your dream home doesn’t have to be a headache. If you go well prepared and understand what to look out for, you’re halfway there. Searching for a home that fits is the biggest part of the job. So once you have that down, you’re on the home straight.

Making purchasing property a breeze is all about preparation. So don’t stop being prepared once you’ve found the house. Continue the trend by getting a mortgage quote ahead of time, getting friendly with a financial advisor, and getting your credit in check. Everything helps on the road to owning property.

9 Ways to Improve the Value of Your Rental Property

Aug 12, 2022

There are a number of things you can do to improve the value of your rental property. This blog post will discuss nine of them! Keep in mind that not all of these tips will work for every property – it is essential to tailor your improvements to fit the specific needs and wants of your tenants.

Via Pexels

1) Invest in some quality furniture.

This doesn't mean you have to go out and buy all new furniture, but if your furniture is old and worn, it will definitely bring down the overall look of your rental.

A simple way to upgrade your furniture is to invest in some slipcovers or throws for your sofa and chairs. This will give them a fresh, new look without breaking the bank. Another option is to paint your existing furniture. A coat of paint can work wonders on tired-looking pieces.

If you do decide to buy new furniture, make sure you choose pieces that are durable and easy to clean. You want them to be able to withstand the wear and tear that comes with being used in a rental property. Also, be sure to choose furniture that is neutral in style. This will make it easier for tenants to personalize the space and make it their own.

2) Get rid of any old or outdated appliances.

Appliances are one of the first things tenants will notice when they walk into your rental. If they are old and outdated, it will give them a bad impression of the property as a whole.

Some landlords make the mistake of thinking that they need to provide top-of-the-line, high-end appliances in their rental. Unfortunately, this is not the case. Tenants are more concerned with appliances that work well and look good than having the latest and greatest models.

So, if your budget doesn't allow for brand new, high-end appliances, don't worry. You can still find quality used appliances that will greatly improve what you have now. Please make sure they are in good working condition before installing them in your rental.

3) Give your rental a fresh coat of paint.

One of the quickest and easiest ways to freshen up your rental is to give it a new coat of paint. This will make it feel clean and new without costing you much money. When choosing paint colors, stick with neutral tones that will appeal to a wide range of tenants. Avoid anything too bold or daring, as this could turn off potential renters.

If you're not sure what color to paint your rental, consider hiring a professional painter. They can help you choose the perfect shade that will enhance your property's overall look and feel.

6 FAQs About Real Estate Listing Presentation for a Beginner

Jun 28, 2022

Are you thinking of selling your home? If so, you must create a listing presentation for your real estate business. This document will outline all the details about your home and help potential buyers learn more about it. Here are five of the most common questions about a real estate listing presentation for beginners.

1. What Is the Purpose of a Listing Presentation?

A listing presentation is used to provide potential buyers with information about a property that is for sale. This document helps outline all the details about your home so that interested parties can learn more about it.

2. Who Should Create the Presentation?

The seller or their agent should create the presentation. This is because they will have all of the necessary information about the property, including any updates or renovations that have been made.

3. What Should Be Included in a Listing Presentation?

Some of the key elements that should be included in a real estate listing presentation are:

-The asking price

-A description of the property

-Photos of the interior and exterior of the home

-A list of any updates or renovations that have been made

-The contact information for the listing agent.

4. What Are the Steps to Create an Effective Listing Presentation?

Here are a few steps to create one.

Begin Short Overview

It is important to start with a short overview as it will help people understand what the document is about and why it is important.

Present Local Market Data

It is important to include local market data in your real estate presentation. This information can help people understand whether your home is worth it and what they might expect to pay for it.

Explain the Sales Process

People need to know how the sale of home works. That way, they will know what to expect and what is going on.

Include a CMA

A CMA is a comparative market analysis. This document compares your home to similar homes in the area that have recently been sold.

Advertise on All Major Platforms

When selling a home, it is important to advertise on all major platforms. In this way, many people will be able to learn about your home and potentially buy it.

5. How Can You Make a Listing Presentation Stand Out?

There are a few things that you can do to make your real estate listing presentation stand out from the rest. One way is to include high-quality photos of the property. You should also try to highlight any unique home features, such as a private backyard or a recently updated kitchen.

6. What Are the Mistakes Made When Creating a Listing Presentation?

Some common mistakes that are made when creating a property presentation include:

-Not including enough information about the property

-Including outdated or inaccurate information

-Using low-quality photos

-Not highlighting the unique features of the home.

By avoiding these mistakes, you can create a presentation that will help your home stand out from the rest.

Now that you know what is included in a listing presentation and how to make one go ahead and use these tips to make a good presentation that will attract buyers and help you sell fast.

5 Easy Steps to Realize Your Dream Home

Sep 26, 2022

Buying a house might be a bit overwhelming, especially for first-timers, and it is not wrong to feel that way. After all, owning such property is both a great investment and a huge responsibility. Not to mention the fact that it is a daunting process that requires a lot of money, knowledge, and thorough research, among others. But among the many steps, where do you start?

Fret not because Lumina Homes got you covered with this 5-step Buyer's Guide by Lumina.

Project inquiry.

A good buyer is the one who asks. It is only understandable for every first-timer to have a lot of questions. Good thing the basic details about Lumina Home Properties are just a click away. Access information about your preferred property or house models at Lumina's website (www.lumina.com.ph) and even chat with a Lumina Expert using the chat button on the website should you need further assistance.

Site viewing.

This is probably one of the exciting parts of scouting your next home. Seeing the actual community you might be moving into, visiting those dressed-up units where you can draw inspiration when designing your new home, or just seeing for yourself if the place exudes a home vibe. Lumina understands this and offers a free site viewing with a Lumina expert to assist you.

A glimpse into one of Lumina’s established communities

Scan QR for a virtual tour of Lumina’s showcase area and bestselling home models

But if you have yet to set the date for your site viewing, make use of the 3D virtual tour of Lumina Homes Showcase Area (https://storage.net-fs.com/hosting/6413202/22/index.htm).

Reservation Application.

Once you're already set with the location and property that you wish to purchase, submitting the reservation application is the next step for you.

To go to Lumina Homes Online reservation portal, scan QR or go to https://onlinereservation.lumina.com.ph

Lumina makes it easier for homebuyers to make a reservation through Lumina Homes Online. It is an online portal where you can easily view and select your preferred block and lot, and settle the reservation fee through various payment channels such as credit or debit card, GCash, or over-the-counter. Upon successful application, you will receive an email confirmation that includes a link to Lumina Homes' Electronic Buyer's Information Sheet (EBIS), Electronic Quotation Sheet (EQS), and Electronic Reservation Agreement (ERA).

Marketing & Admin Briefing.

Lumina Homes is committed to providing quality service to all of its clients. After placing your reservation, an assigned Lumina Marketing and Admin Staff will be in touch with you for briefing, which includes information about the property you are set to buy, documentary requirements, step-by-step process prior to turning over of your Lumina Home, housing, and admin policies, and the project timeline.

Submission of Requirements.

After completing the briefing, you are only one step away from being a homeowner. The assigned Lumina expert will ask you to fill out some forms and submit documentary requirements within 30 days.

The list of documentary requirements varies and depends on two factors--employment status and financing options. Either way, Lumina Expert will be available to assist you with any further concerns.

Lumina Homes continuously evolves to accommodate the growing needs of its homeowners by providing digital real-estate solutions like virtual home tours and subdivision walkthroughs, online reservations, online appointment booking, and online payment options through digital wallets and digital banking in partnership with national bank players.

"Lumina Homes is committed to going beyond what is expected of an affordable housing community. We will maximize our developments' potential in providing our residents the quality home and life that they deserve," Estrellita Tan, Group Head of Lumina Homes said.

Start your homeowner journey at https://www.lumina.com.ph/property-listing.

SM Prime builds better, greener offices

Oct 24, 2022

E-com Centers at the Mall of Asia Complex

Many people have become more aware of the importance of sustainability in everyday living during the two years that the world faced the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Environmental awareness has caught on through practices such as shifting to paperless, reducing plastic use, and planting more trees. For property developers, taking part in this movement means transitioning into green buildings and developments.

Such is the case for SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime), a publicly listed subsidiary of SM Investments Corporation (SMIC) that is committed to building innovative and sustainable lifestyle cities. SM Prime is future-proofing its developments to be more responsive and adaptive to community needs and the effects of climate change in line with comprehensive sustainability goals ranging from energy to ecology.

Over the years, SM Prime has continued to elevate its approach to the building and development of community spaces. All these green initiatives have been recognized by reputable and well-known organizations such as the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) which awarded Conrad Hotel Manila and SM Aura Premier the Gold certification for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) in 2016 and 2017, respectively.

“When we build, we build with the community in mind. This is why it is important to integrate sustainability into our developments and operations. We remain committed as an environmentally-conscious and responsible integrated property developer ready to serve the ever-changing needs and aspirations of our communities and stakeholders,” said SM Prime President Jeffrey Lim.

Building green office spaces

SM’s Commercial Property Group is renowned for balancing green design features with operational and practical considerations, enabling more companies and locators to enjoy environmentally sound commercial developments.

The CPG’s flagship properties are its five E-com Centers – all future-forward buildings catering mainly to technological, business process outsourcing, and Fortune 500 companies. All five E-com Centers are located in the MOA Complex. Each building has a proportionate amount of green open spaces and communal areas where workers can socialize and decompress from work.

CPG further promotes sustainable practices with its LEED gold-certified office buildings, solidifying its foothold and commitment to building green offices and commercial developments. These certifications are a testament to SM Prime’s dedication to reducing its contribution to global climate change—all while enhancing the quality of life within its communities.

The three E-com Center boasts architectural wonders and green features that eventually earned its LEED Gold certification. These include water recycling for landscape and non-potable use. The building is fitted with glass windows that minimize heat from entering the building, allowing tenants to use less air conditioning. This 15-story, semi-circular twin-tower office building features function, and aesthetics complemented by state-of-the-art facilities. While it was the first office building in the Mall of Asia Complex to receive such an honor, the new FourE-com Center also recently achieved the same certification—designed with its tenants’ needs in mind, improving work-life balance and office culture accordingly.

Both designed by a globally renowned firm, Arquitectonica, the Three and Four E-coms are unique amongst business centers. “We designed the E-coms to functionally meet the BPO industry’s need for large, continuous floorplates, but also sculpted them in interesting ways so as to allow views and airflows between the buildings, while also, of course, giving them interesting architectural identities. At the same time, their landscaped podium decks create attractive communal green spaces for the tenants; they are envisaged to be interconnected via landscaped sky bridges in the future. The combination of all these factors, architectural design, and green spaces, have made the E-coms highly attractive to multinational companies and brands,” said David Zaballero, Arquitectonica Director.

SM Mega Tower

Meanwhile, SM Prime’s tallest skyscraper located along EDSA will also join the company’s growing roster of LEED-certified green buildings. Called Mega Tower, the 50-story office building is future-ready as it provides spaces that respect both its tenants and nature itself.

Strategically located in the busy Ortigas Centre, the 50-story LEED-registered skyscraper is flexibly designed to meet the requirements of both corporate and BPO tenants. Though its design is highly sculptural, each floorplate remains efficiently planned – combining functionality and iconic identity.

“Incorporating sustainability in property development means having the whole life cycle of a building in mind. We invest a tenth of our capital expenditure to ensure that sustainability is integrated into our properties as we carefully plan our developments for our communities, the environment, and future generations,” SM Prime’s Mr. Lim said.

In close collaboration with the SM Group’s other business units, the CPG’s multi-segment or mixed-use approach maximizes the socio-economic potential of its buildings and developments. As a result, SM’s commercial developments are connected to our malls, residences, parks, and civic spaces. Notably, they are all easily accessible to transport hubs to ensure mobility for pedestrians and the commuting public. This interconnectivity, alongside each property’s green and safety features, reduces the company’s carbon footprint, attracts more tenants and locators, and encourages greater productivity among its workforce.

CDC Holdings Completes Manila Rivercity Residences

Mar 22, 2016

Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry - current president Mr Angel Ngu, past honorary president Mr Tan Ching and vice president Dr. Cecilio Pedro. Also present were Manila City Hall's Engr. Roberto Bernardo and Engr. Roger Legaspi and the president of SEC Elevators, Mr Suzuki Takao, President of SEC Elevators, ECD, CDC, Engr. Roberto Bernardo, Manila City Engineer, Engr. Roger Legaspi, Manila City Building Official and Mr David Chua.

CDC Holdings, Inc., one of the leading real estate developers in the country, recently completed the construction and turnover of units for its newest project – the Manila Rivercity Residences in Sta. Ana, Manila.

With all the property’s nine towers now completed, the company has fulfilled its commitment to help more families realize their dream of living in their own homes. Through the Manila Rivercity Residences, nestled along the historic and scenic Pasig River, CDC Holdings has once again built one of the most exciting and dynamic communities in the area.

“From an old, dilapidated warehouse, CDC Holdings transformed this site into one of the most attractive real estate investment you can find at this location, at this price and at this quality,” shared Elsie Chua, the company’s president and CEO. “The vision that I have of providing value for money homes at convenient location is a reality with Manila Rivercity Residences.”

SM Prime Embarks on a Unified Waste Management Program for an #SMWasteFreeFuture

Apr 24, 2024

SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime), one of the leading integrated property developers in Southeast Asia, is embarking on a unified waste management and segregation campaign in response to the growing global crisis on waste. SM Prime aims to bring all its property groups and stakeholders toward an #SMWasteFreeFuture.

According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), humanity generates more than 2 billion tons of municipal solid waste annually, of which 45 percent is mismanaged. Without urgent action, municipal solid waste will double to almost 4 billion tons each year by 2050. On December 14, 2022, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed March 30 as the International Day of Zero Waste.

The following year, UNEP inaugurated the First International Day of Zero Waste, to bolster actions to address the global pollution crisis. It aims to encourage global action and bring the world’s attention to zero waste.

Strong foundations

SM Prime’s founding leader, Henry Sy, believed that “business growth and social development must go hand in hand.” The company follows this guiding principle and has formed a sustainability policy that commits to the following: Resource Conservation and Efficiency, Disaster Resilience, Climate Advocacy, Social Integration, and Transparent Reporting.

Anchored on these sustainability commitments are the SM Supermalls’ Environmental Programs on Waste Management. Through its corporate social responsibility arm, SM Cares, SM Supermalls has pioneered longstanding programs such as the Trash to Cash recycling market, and provided support to the annual International Coastal Clean Up, among other national events.

The largest haul and biggest participation to date: The 38th International Coastal Clean-up had 17,000 volunteers across 15 SM Malls in 12 locations nationwide. It is an annual community-driven partnership between SM Supermalls, SM Cares, the DENR, LGU’s, and the volunteers from the SM community.

Scaled to perfection: One of the first recycling markets in the country, Trash-to-Cash is the valuable example that waste can have monetary benefits. The recycling market is held every first Friday and Saturday of the month in all SM Supermalls to encourage waste segregation and recycling among SM customers, tenants, and the community. The recycling market is open from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

In the hotel and tourism sector, SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC) has taken the lead in mitigating global food waste by implementing sustainable initiatives across its properties in the Philippines. Their key initiatives include the World Wide Fund for Nature’s Sustainable Diner Program, which aims to transform and help the food service sector minimize its impact on the environment through resource efficiency, plastic refusal, and food waste management and contribute to the world’s future food security.

Closing the loop: SMHCC’s sustainability efforts are anchored on the 7Gs or Seven Green Goals, based on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG). The overall thrust for sustainability is cascaded to the rest of the properties, ensuring that it is embedded at every step of the hotel’s operations, ensured by property Sustainability Champions.

To support these programs, SM Prime also recently unveiled its waste-to-fuel partnership with GUUN Co. Ltd. (GUNN) to implement the Japanese technique of reducing landfill impact. The technology converts non-recyclable and hard-to-recycle packaging into alternative fuel.

No time to waste: Sorting through the amount of trash at the GUUN Facility in Cebu. Unfit for recycling and reuse, the waste material recovered avoids the landfill and is then reconverted to fuel resources.

A Vision for an #SMWasteFreeFuture

To mark the International Day of Zero Waste on March 30, 2024, SM Prime is releasing its vision for an #SMWasteFreeFuture. “As a community, we strongly believe in our ability to contribute to solving today's waste issues,” said Hans “Chico” Sy, Jr., President of SM Engineering Design and Development Corporation (SMEDD) and SM sustainability champion.

SM Prime’s announcement of its vision of an #SMWasteFreeFuture demonstrates the company’s strong commitment and sustainability stewardship, by inviting its stakeholders to engage in activities that will help spread zero-waste awareness and work for a sustainable and environmentally responsible approach to waste management.

“We understand that this may seem like a daunting challenge to overcome However, by joining forces, we can create a world that our future generations truly deserve – if we dare to take on this journey together,” said Sy.

SM Prime remains committed to its role as a catalyst for economic growth, delivering innovative and sustainable lifestyle cities, thereby enriching the quality of life of millions of people. SM Prime is pursuing the next horizon on integrated property development and onward to building sustainable cities of the future.

3 Types of Bugs That Represent a Danger to Your Trees: Have You Spotted Any of Them Around?

Aug 29, 2020

Trees are beautiful and majestic pieces of nature that provide a variety of benefits for the Earth and people. Unfortunately, trees are vulnerable to the destruction caused by a variety of bugs. These bugs can damage a tree and even kill it. Not only can this diminish the look of a property, but it can also make the tree a danger when it is near people or structures.

These destructive bugs can be stopped if action is taken early enough. However, it can be hard to tell the difference between a regular bug that likes to crawl around a tree and the various bugs that will feed on the tree. This makes it important for property owners to familiarize themselves with the three main categories of bugs that are dangerous to trees.

Chewing Insects

Chewing insects, also known as defoliating insects, can damage the tree from the outside. These insects tend to eat the foliage of the tree. When they attack the leaves, it compromises the tree's ability to get nutrients from the sun. If chewing insects are suspected, it is important to contact a professional for plant health care services.

These chewing insects can eat away all the leaves from a tree. They also attack the buds and flowers on the tree that can hinder its ability to grow properly. Some chewing insects will attack the fruit of any type of fruit-bearing tree. These insects include Japanese beetles, tent caterpillar, gypsy moths, and others.

These creatures are more easily detected than most tree-damaging insects. Early signs of a problem can include leaves with holes or even missing leaves on a tree. Minor defoliation usually will not kill a healthy tree. However, repeated attacks over several years can reduce the tree's ability to grow and may result in the death of the tree.

5 Home Improvement Tasks for 2019

May 8, 2019

If you’re trying to sell your home, or think it could do with a bit of a refresh, you could be wondering where to begin. Sometimes even modern-build properties can benefit from some home improvement from time to time. That brand-new feeling fades after a while, and giving your home a bit of spruce is just one way of bringing it back.

Deep clean the carpets

If you’re looking for a big task for 2019, then giving the carpets a deep clean is a task that, while quite extensive, will give your house a uniquely fresh feel. When you think about it, our carpets and floors have taken a lot of footfall over the years, which includes all kinds of dirt and dust. While vacuuming can create a unique feeling of fluffiness, a deep wash will give your carpets that feeling of being completely brand new.

Change old lighting fixtures

You’d be surprised by how much a lighting fixture can affect a room’s appearance. This is particularly the case if you have fixtures that could potentially appear outdated – and not in a trendy way. Replacing old features with contemporary ones that tie into the design of the room can completely change the aesthetic of a room – particularly at night time when it’s all lit up.

Paint Refresh

You don’t necessarily have to have a complete re-design to improve the appearance of your home. The painters Lynchburg can brighten up any rooms that have dulled with age or are mottled with dents from picture hooks or just general wear and tear. Picking large quantities of a single color or using old tins of paint for the colors you already have will also help to bring down overall costs.

Change the windows

If you’re particularly concerned about the exterior of your home, then changing the windows is just one way of renovating your property’s appearance. If you have wooden frames and want to keep them that way, you don’t necessarily have to shift to plastic double-glazing. Going to a website such as timberwindows-direct.co.uk could help you find windows that are an appropriate fit for your property.

Get your gutters checked and cleaned

For some people, the only time their gutters get checked is when they suddenly begin to overflow and cause water damage in the colder months. If your property is surrounded by trees, or even if you have moss growing on your roof, your gutters could quickly begin to overflow. If this is a task you don’t want to have to keep revisiting, then you can buy gutter protection to keep them clean all year round.

Some home improvement tasks can be more demanding than others, however, taking the time to assess what needs to be done to your home can be completely transformative when you make a start at giving your home a refresh. Putting some budget aside for any changes can also help you sort out ‘must-haves’ and simple wants.

SMDC: Building places Filipinos can call home

May 19, 2022

A home, which one can call one own, is one of the most fundamental human needs for survival. In building one’s family, buying housing or investing in property is often a crucial discussion that takes into consideration price, location, amenities, and even the environment as these all impact the way people and families live and grow and how communities thrive in the long-run.

Recently, the many changes brought by the COVID-19 pandemic have caused Filipinos to reassess the way they live, work and reside. The topic of homeownership and residential space has only become much more prominent as its impact on one’s physical, social and emotional wellbeing was emphasized when companies shifted to work-from-home setups and schools introduced blended learning. It has become likely that up-and-coming homeowners are looking for new and affordable housing that responds to the new realities of school and work, as well as a healthier and more self-sufficient lifestyle.

For leading real estate developer SM Development Corporation (SMDC), the residential arm of SM Prime Holdings, satisfying personal needs and meeting basic survival for the homeowners of today can be done through meaningful and strategic planning and property development.

Over the years, SMDC has been continuously redefining residential spaces to bring accessibility, convenience, function, style, and sustainability in the face of evolving trends and lifestyle changes—assuring prospective buyers of the great value that SMDC properties offer.

This means presenting a range of residences located in prime urban and suburban communities, conveniently situated near major road networks and transportation hubs, and designed to reflect SM’s commitment to luxurious urban living. SMDC properties bring commercial retail shops, entertainment venues, banks, and leisure facilities closer to residents against a backdrop of lush and walkable spaces. Such open spaces encourage homeowners to dwell outside and take a break from the isolation that has become a norm lately and allow residents to safely interact with their neighbors. These spaces also provide amenities that promote a healthy lifestyle among the residents.

Across the available properties, prospective homeowners are able to choose their housing type to fit their own or their family’s needs and functions with units ranging from studio rooms to deluxe two-bedroom suites. On top of being able to customize their living spaces, state-of-the-art facilities such as 24-hour security and CCTV system, fire alarm system, numerous WIFI-ready zones, and standby generator set ensures continuous function and exceptional livability.

However, SMDC’s promise not only pertains to providing a more excellent quality of life but to also having its communities take an integral role in their commitment toward sustainability. SMDC aims to promote many green living practices by designing walkable and transport-friendly developments, introducing energy-saving and eco-friendly green buildings, and encouraging effective waste management programs among residents. For the property developer, homes are seen as a legacy for future generations and should be built for sustainability and for ease in future modification.

With developments still ongoing and more projects in the pipeline, SMDC allows homebuyers the opportunity to have the home of their choice. Through its affordable investment and flexible payment options, new families or young millennials will be able to live independently in communities that cater to their specific needs.

With its ability to empathize and understand current housing needs while having the foresight to address evolving requirements, SMDC continues to create sustainable and resilient living spaces for Filipinos to call their own.

Dodge These Issues You Can Run Into Moving Home

Apr 3, 2021

Are you getting ready to move home? It’s important to be aware that this can be quite a rocky road, filled with challenges and hurdles that you’ll need to jump. So, let’s explore some of the issues that you can face and the ways that you can tackle these problems head-on from the beginning.

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Heavy Costs

If you’re moving to a larger property, the last thing that you want to be dealing with is high costs from day one. That’s why you should make sure that you are exploring the best way to save money with your home move. There are a few ways to do this but a key recommendation would be to price check everything. That’s particularly important when you are hiring moving companies. Removalists have rates that vary massively. You need to shop around the market and find a great company like Two Men And A Truck that can offer you a great service for the right price.

Home Won’t Sell

Another issue that you can encounter when moving is a property that just won’t budget on the market. There are a plethora of reasons why a home might not be attracting interest from buyers. Start by checking if the price you’re selling at currently matches the state of the market. If it does, then think about the marketing company that you are using. It could be worth investigating whether another estate agent could serve you better here. You should always check reviews before you commit.

Buyer Drops Out

You could also find that a buyer drops out of purchasing your property. If this happens, then you should definitely consider your legal options. Your position here and whether it’s worth chasing the buyer will determine how far you were through the sale and whether you will lose money if the sale doesn’t go through. If a buyer leaves you high and dry then you should always at least speak to a lawyer. They might be able to ensure that you get the money back that you can’t afford to lose during this critical new chapter in your life.

Gazumping

If you are gazumped then it means another buyer has stepped in to take the house that you already had a handshake deal on with the owner. Whether there’s any legal action you can take here will depend on where you live. Laws can differ by region. A good way to avoid this issue is to make sure that you do get a feel for the person selling the home. You need to make sure that you can trust them. Be wary about homes that have already been cleared out. It might mean that the seller will always take the chance to get more money for the home.

We hope this helps you understand some of the issues that you can face when you are moving home. If you take the right steps here, then you’ll find that your home move is painless and completely stress-free, avoiding all of the common headaches that come with this change.

SM Prime: Engineering a sustainable future

Sep 22, 2024

SM Prime leads the way in sustainable development, integrating sustainability into its core business strategy.

Sustainability has become a driving force across every industry. For SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime), one of Asia’s leading integrated property developers, sustainability is elevated through a strategic framework that leverages the company’s extensive operations, significant economic impact, and cultural influence.

SM Prime’s sustainability journey began in the 1990s, guided by a focus on resilience and practicality. The company has always valued substance over style, favoring strategies grounded on real-world application rather than flashy, short-term fixes. Its strategy is built on what truly matters to the business and the community it serves, ensuring that its sustainability efforts are both effective and enduring.

In its 2023 Annual Integrated Report, SM Prime introduced its Sustainability Ambition Roadmap with a clear and powerful message: Together for a sustainable future – aligned with its vision of creating and managing innovative, sustainable, and integrated property developments that enhance the quality of life for all.

SM Prime’s sustainability strategy is built on three main goals: (1) Environmental sustainability, (2) Prosperity for all, and (3) Climate resilience.

Building on its sustainability framework of Economy, People, Planet, and Community, SM Prime identified three major goals to pursue: Environmental sustainability, Prosperity for all, and Climate resilience – all aimed to create a future marked by sustainability, resilience, and widespread prosperity by 2030, 2040, and beyond.

Under its environmental sustainability strategy are two significant programs released by the company: Net Zero by 2040 and #SMWasteFreeFuture.

Net Zero by 2040

SM Prime is committed to enhancing people’s quality of life by intensifying climate action, reducing disaster risks, investing in resilient design, protecting biodiversity, and implementing strategic corporate social responsibility programs, with its main focus on climate action toward a net-zero business. The company has been collaborating with the World-Wide Fund (WWF) for Nature-Philippines to establish science-based targets in alignment with the global commitment of a net-zero ambition by 2050.

“We understand the magnitude of the challenges we face to achieve our Net-Zero commitment. SM Prime is determined to take action and meet its climate commitments. This is one of our top agendas in sustainability,” said Jeffrey C. Lim, SM Prime President and CEO.

SM City Santa Rosa's solar photovoltaic (PV) system has 5,772 panels at 3.088 MWp capacity and has an annual solar energy production of up to 4.292GWh.

#SMWasteFreeFuture

SM Prime launched its vision for an #SMWasteFreeFuture, in support of the United Nations Environment Programme’s (UNEP) International Day of Zero Waste. The program introduces a simple segregation scheme: Recyclable, Disposable, and Compostable (RDC), all aimed at reducing overall waste generation and increasing the waste diversion rate from landfills through sustainable disposal methods. The initiative was launched nationwide for SM employees and across all SM property groups and stakeholders.

SM Prime continues to support existing programs and partnerships that promote better waste management solutions. Initiatives such as SM Supermalls’ Trash-to-Cash recycling market, Plastic Waste Collection and E-Waste Collection programs, and regular coastal and estero clean-up activities effectively engage the community in rethinking their relationship with waste.

To address food waste, SM Hotels and Convention Corporation (SMHCC) has pioneered projects such as The Sustainable Diner with WWF-PH, diverting 198,640 kg of food waste through bokashi composting and 40,013 kg through biodigesters. SMHCC also launched Tela Tales, a program that recycles condemned linens.

SM Prime gathers the community for a #SMWasteFreeFuture.

SM Development Corporation (SMDC) recently partnered with Globe and Scholars of Sustenance Philippines for the Hapag Movement, aimed at targeting food waste and involuntary hunger affecting millions of Filipinos. “As a community, we strongly believe in our ability to contribute to solving today's waste issues. We understand that this may seem like a daunting challenge to overcome. However, by joining forces, we can create a world that our future generations truly deserve – if we have the courage to take on this journey together,” said Hans “Chico” Sy, Jr., President of SM Engineering Design and Development Corporation (SMEDD) and SM sustainability champion.

Water stewardship

SM Prime is committed to water stewardship by implementing innovative water conservation and management practices, ensuring that properties developed are more responsive and adaptable to the changing needs of communities.

Through its sewage water treatment plants, wastewater is processed, preventing contaminated water from polluting local waterways and for reuse. The recycled water is utilized in malls for water closet flushing, air conditioning operations and landscape greening.

SM City Baguio’s Rainwater Filtration Facility addresses water security and ensures a safe and sufficient water supply for the operations of the mall and its tenants.

SM Prime Holdings, Inc.’s Chairman Henry T. Sy, Jr. receives SM Prime’s 30th Listing Anniversary Plaque from the Philippine Stock Exchange’s President and CEO Ramon S. Monzon.

Prosperity for all

SM Prime’s developments serve as catalysts for socio-economic progress, delivering tangible benefits to all stakeholders. Founded by Henry Sy, the company remains committed to his vision of bringing world-class developments to the Philippines. A vision perfectly exemplified through the Mall of Asia Complex which offers a blueprint for future cities that go beyond commercial success to embrace a holistic approach to urban development.

SM Prime celebrated its 30th year as a publicly listed company last July 23, signifying three decades of service and transformative growth in the Philippine real estate industry.

“True leadership is marked by a solid dedication to collective success. Our journey at SM Prime demonstrates the power of dreaming big and the incredible achievements that follow when you pursue those dreams with determination and hard work.” – JEFFREY C. LIM, SM PRIME PRESIDENT AND CEO

The Curious Mom