The fall has proven to be a busy time at Coldwell Banker Islands Realty! We celebrated an anniversary, welcomed some new faces, and attended the CB annual conference. In October, we celebrated our 25th anniversary with Coldwell Banker!

25 Years with Coldwell Banker

We feel fortunate to be able to serve the real estate needs of Northwestern Vermont and owe a big thank you to all of our clients who made this possible. We appreciate the recognition and are proud to be a part of the Coldwell Banker family. Being a part of Coldwell Banker has elevated our business and allowed us to grow through brand recognition, new tools, tech and learning opportunities to provide the best possible service to our community.

The Coldwell Banker Gen Blue Experience

The Coldwell Banker 2021 conference, Gen Blue Experience, took place at Radio City Music Hall in early October. Joy Gess represented CBIR in New York City while the rest of the office enjoyed many impactful learning sessions, workshops, and inspirational speakers virtually from our office together at 38 Community Lane! Gen Blue is just one example of some of the serious advantages from affiliating with one of the industry’s largest names. 

New Agent Welcome

Over the past couple of months we welcomed some new faces to the company. Please join us in welcoming licensed sales associates Paul Habersang, Susan Kaminski, Deborah Unica, and Sam Rossetti-Thiels as well as a training & education coordinator Sue Arguin to Coldwell Banker Islands Realty! 

Champlain Islands CROP Hunger Walk

The CBIR team took steps to help families who are struggling with hunger. This was the 8th Champlain Islands CROP Hunger Walk. All of the contributions went to help to provide more meals for the growing number of people in our community who need them, as well as greater food security in communities around the world. In total, $3,534 dollars were raised and it was a great event that we look forward to participating in again next October!

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We are pleased to announce that Susan Kaminski has joined Coldwell Banker Islands Realty as a licensed sales associate. Learn more about Susan below. 

Susan has been a licensed real estate agent in Vermont since 2012. Having moved eight times with her family (across three states: IL, IN, VT), she understands the emotions and stresses of buying and selling a home. Her most recent move - which involved downsizing and a complete home renovation - was to Vermont’s Lake Champlain Islands. Her personal experience combined with knowledge of Lake Champlain, Grand Isle and Chittenden Counties will make your next home sale or purchase a successful venture.

She strives to provide clients with exceptional customer service and skillful guidance through the entire real estate transaction – working closely with mortgage brokers, inspectors, appraisers and attorneys. The Vermont home market is very competitive and requires an agent with knowledge of the area, expertise to formulate a competitive offer, proficiency in pricing properties correctly and the ability to navigate contingencies to make your real estate goals a reality.

Susan describes living on Lake Champlain as unequivocal beauty and tranquility; an oasis of nature! When not selling real estate she enjoys boating, traveling (especially to nearby Montreal), relaxing on her back porch, taking in the lake views and reading a good book. Give Susan a call – she would love to help you reach your real estate goals today! 

Connect with Susan today!

As a real estate agent you are often on the go, listening to podcasts are a great way to absorb industry related information while on the move. Here are our top 5 favorite podcasts that every realtor should be listening to right now.    

1. After The License - Helping Real Estate Agents

These episodes are around 3-10 minutes and are very helpful for new real estate agents. They have quick tips such as marketing, the importance of consistency, lead generation and things of that nature. 

2. Gary Vee

Gary Vee is very entertaining to listen to and has valuable insights and tips on marketing and branding for your business. He is a strong proponent of consistency over perfection and being authentic. 

3. BiggerPockets Real Estate

This podcast is very good if you are seeking investment advice. If you are interested in purchasing multi families, flipping houses, or just real estate investment guidance in general try listening to these episodes. 

4. Tom Ferry

There are valuable tips for agents all over the spectrum in these episodes. Whether you are a seasoned Realtor, or you are just starting out, everyone will be able to take something from this podcast

5. Over Ask

Over Ask is a podcast by the Broke Agent. This podcast leans towards entertainment more heavily than those mentioned above however the interview style episodes are informative and interesting to hear opinions from a mix of real estate professionals. 

Whether you're in the office or in the car driving to a showing consider listening to an industry related podcast to pick up some valuable information. Want to learn more about what it takes to become a Realtor? Visit our website to learn about a career at Coldwell Banker Islands Realty. 

When preparing your home for a showing there are small steps you can take to make the bathroom more appealing to potential buyers. Check them out below or bookmark this post to refer to later!

1. Close the toilet seat.

Everyone knows what a toilet looks like! This step is also especially important for preparing to shoot your listing photos.

2. Clean off clutter. 

Hide your personal items and hygiene whether it's a toothbrush or cosmetics make sure to store it away before a showing.

3. Do a deep clean. 

Scrub and disinfect the space. Washrooms face a lot of wear and tear, stains, or mildew could easily deter a potential buyer. 

4. Use show towels.

The bathroom will be most attractive if it looks like it hasn't been used. Set out separate towels for showings and photos. 

5. Add some flowers or simple decor. 

 Add some finishing touches but keep it simple, think spa retreat. 

Did you find this article helpful? Check out these interior improvements that will blow away potential buyers. Consult your Realtor on additional techniques to help make sure your home is showcased in the best light possible.