Kirk and Terry Blog

Alright, alright. Its a new year and we know a lot of you have made new Year's Resolutions to shed some pounds. But if you’re like most people, losing weight is tough.  So what do “skinny” people do that others don’t?  Of course there’s the obvious…they don’t eat as much.  But is there more to successfully managing a healthy weight?  Here are a few tips we've found helpful…

1) Take action. When slim people start to gain a few pounds, they do something about it. They don’t let a few pounds creep up to 10-20 pounds. They begin by exercising more and eating smaller portions.
2) Don’t skip meals, and eat a healthy breakfast.  Eating small amounts of healthy food regularly manages blood sugar levels better, and stops cravings and binging. 
3) Weigh yourself daily. Painful as it can be, nothing stops overeating like reality staring you in the face.
4) Get more sleep.  Researchers have found lack of sleep leads to an increase in cravings for more carbohydrates. Instead of reaching for food at night, close off the kitchen and turn in an hour earlier.  You’ll be more rested, enjoying more energy, and you’ll be looking a little slimmer too!

If loosing some weight is one of your resolutions for 2010, make a simple plan utilizing these tips and stick to it. You'll soon be seeing a healthier and happier you!

More Free Real Estate Tips! 

Find TONS of free information about our local Richmond real estate market. Visit my site at:

www.MarcsHomes.Com

Q. What are the new trends in home building? 

A. Every new home buyer has their own personal preferences, but according to a recent survey conducted by the National Association of Home Builders, there are some new trends in the new home building market.

Buyers surveyed wanted spacious garages with lots of storage, and many buyers wanted space for a workshop.  New home buyers want high-tech wiring for sound systems, computer networks, and entertainment.  One of biggest shifts is buyers are looking for fewer open floor plans, and preferred partial walls that separate areas.  Activity rooms were also important to new buyers.  This included space for a home office, game rooms, exercise areas, home entertainment areas, or a family room/den. 

Storage areas (kitchen pantry, walk-up attic, large closets, and special cabinets) were particularly important to new buyers.  New home buyers also wanted homes with lots of natural light.  Fewer buyers were interested in two story homes and preferred the master suite on the main floor with a walk-in shower stall. 

If you are buying or selling a home and need competent and caring representation, please call me, Marc Austin Highfill, at (804) 527-EXIT.

Would you like the keys to financial freedom? Mary Farrell’s Beyond the Basics, outlines the characteristics of people who have achieved their financial goals. It’s no secret that people who achieve their goals have a plan – they set financial goals, save and invest their money, and they keep an eye on their investments. Here are five strategies from Fortune magazine for building wealth:

• Start early and save. If you save $1K a year at 25, you’ll have about five times what you would have than starting at age 45.
• Invest in index funds rather than individual stocks. They’re easier and safer for the average investor with little time for research.
• If your employer has a 401(k) plan, use it. Your employer’s contribution is like free money.
• Avoid mutual funds with a management fee higher than 1 percent.
• Get rid of your credit card and consumer debt. Pay off the highest rate card first, then work through your lower rate cards.

Learn How To Maximize The Value Of Your Home! 

Did you know there’s a free consumer report showing which repairs and fix-ups will net you the most value for your home?  It’s call the “Homeseller’s Guide To Money-Making Fix-Ups,” and it’s great even if you’re not planning on selling soon.  You can get a free copy by visiting our website at…

www.MarcsHomes.Com