Summary:

In this episode of Real Talk, Pam Stott interviews Michelle Larkin, the founder and executive director of Rebuilding Together Saratoga County. They discuss the organization's mission to provide home repairs for those in need, including older adults, veterans, and low-income families. The conversation highlights the importance of community support, the impact of the Showcase of Homes fundraising event, and the vital role of volunteers in making a difference in people's lives. Michelle shares personal stories that illustrate the profound effect of their work on individuals and families in the community.

Takeaways

• Rebuilding Together Saratoga County was founded in 2003.
• The organization aims to make homes warm, safe, and dry.
• They have a waitlist of over 300 people needing assistance.
• Funding from the Showcase of Homes directly supports home repairs.
• Volunteers play a crucial role in the organization's success.
• The organization serves older adults, veterans, and low-income families.
• Ramps are a significant part of their services for accessibility.
• Community involvement is essential for the organization's operations.
• The Showcase of Homes has been a consistent revenue stream for years.
• Every ticket purchased helps support local families in need.
• Contact Information for Michelle: michelle@rtsaratoga.org

In this episode of Real Talk with Sterling Real Estate Group, guests Laura Muschott and Bridget Archer discuss the essential aspects of home staging.

They explore the process of preparing a home for the market, the importance of curb appeal, common mistakes homeowners make, and tips for maximizing appeal both inside and outside the home. The conversation emphasizes the emotional connection buyers have with homes and the significance of creating a welcoming environment that allows potential buyers to envision themselves living in the space.

Key Takeaways

• Home staging is about making a home visually appealing to buyers.
• Neutral colors are recommended for painting rooms before staging.
• Curb appeal is crucial for making a good first impression.
• Cleaning and decluttering are essential steps in the staging process.
• Lighting plays a significant role in showcasing a home.
• Personal items should be removed to help buyers envision their own lives in the space.
• Staging can lead to higher sale prices for homes.
• The entryway should be inviting and well-maintained.
• Staging doesn't always require new furniture; existing items can be rearranged effectively.
• Every home can benefit from professional staging advice.
• Contact info: Laura Muschott: laura.sterlinghomes@gmail.com. Bridget Archer: archerdesignny@gmail.com

In this episode of Real Talk, Lisa Licata sits down with Mike Isles from Spa Septic to break down everything homeowners, buyers, and real estate agents should know about septic systems.

From how to properly maintain a septic system to what really happens during an inspection, Mike shares his expert insights—including costly mistakes to avoid, why "flushable" wipes aren't safe, and how a simple riser can save you hundreds in the long run.

Whether you're buying a home with a septic tank, preparing for a septic inspection, or building on raw land and need to understand perc tests—this episode is packed with must-know information for navigating septic systems in the Capital Region and beyond.

🔎 Key Takeaways:

• How often to pump your septic system (and why it matters)
• What a septic inspection includes (and why you should never skip one)
• Common myths about additives like RID-X and yeast
• What buyers should look for when purchasing a home on septic
• How septic system failures can derail a real estate deal
• Tips for installing a new system, including cost expectations
• What every land buyer should know about perc and deep hole tests
• Real talk on raised beds vs traditional systems
• Contact Mike Isles / Spa Septic at 518-584-5473 (O)

📍 Whether you’re a buyer, seller, agent, or builder—don’t let "poo be a problem for you."