Preparing Your Home for Winter: Quick Tips for Homeowners

Preparing Your Home for Winter: Quick Tips for Homeowners

As winter approaches, it’s time to prepare your home to handle the cold and avoid costly repairs. Here are essential steps to winterize your home:

1. Inspect Your Heating System

  • Schedule a furnace checkup and replace filters to ensure efficiency.
  • Test your thermostat to ensure it’s working properly.

2. Seal Drafts and Insulate

  • Seal gaps around windows, doors, and pipes with weatherstripping or caulk.
  • Add insulation to your attic to prevent heat loss.

3. Clean Your Gutters

  • Remove debris from gutters and downspouts to prevent ice dams.
  • Check for leaks and repair any damage.

4. Protect Your Pipes

  • Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas like basements.
  • Shut off outdoor water sources and disconnect hoses.

5. Check Your Roof

  • Inspect for damaged shingles or leaks.
  • Trim overhanging branches that could fall under heavy snow or ice.

6. Winterize Your Fireplace

  • Clean the chimney and ensure the flue is open.
  • Check the fireplace for cracks and repair if needed.

7. Test Detectors

  • Replace batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
  • Install new detectors if needed, especially near bedrooms.

8. Prepare Your Garage

  • Check the weatherstripping on your garage door.
  • Ensure your snow removal tools are accessible.

By taking these simple steps, you can keep your home safe, warm, and energy-efficient all winter long!

Have any questions? Interested in a career in real estate?

Contact YOUR real estate alliance today!

Phone: (920) 209-0863

Email: lori@loridibbs.com

Location: 516 E. Wisconsin Ave. Suite C, Appleton, WI 54911

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Honoring Our Heroes: Veterans Day Events & Tributes

Honoring Our Heroes: Veterans Day Events & Tributes

As Veterans Day is here, we come together to honor the courageous men and women who have selflessly served our country. This day is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices, resilience, and unwavering commitment of our veterans who have dedicated their lives to protecting the freedoms we cherish. It’s a time to reflect on their bravery and the significant impact they've had in preserving our way of life.

Whether through heartfelt thank-you notes, community gatherings, or simple acts of kindness, let’s show our gratitude and appreciation for the sacrifices they’ve made. Veterans Day is an opportunity to acknowledge the invaluable role veterans play in shaping our nation’s history and to express our deep thanks for their service.

As we celebrate this important day, we encourage you to participate in local events honoring our veterans and to join us in expressing our collective gratitude. Here are a couple of events to mark on your calendar:

Appleton
11:00 a.m. – Fox Valley Veterans Council Veterans Day Ceremony at Outagamie County Courthouse

Green Bay
10:00 a.m. - United Patriotic Society of Green bay Veterans Day Ceremony

 Neenah
VFW Post 2126 - Veterans Day Dinner at Dome Sports Bar

For more events and special offers for veterans, visit: WBAY Veterans Day Events & Discounts

Let's come together to honor and celebrate the brave individuals who have dedicated so much for our country. A heartfelt thank you to all veterans as we approach this important day of remembrance!

 

Have any questions? Interested in a career in real estate?

Contact YOUR real estate alliance today!

Phone: (920) 209-0863

Email: lori@loridibbs.com

Location: 516 E. Wisconsin Ave. Suite C, Appleton, WI 54911

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Season of Giving

Season of Giving

As the holiday season approaches, it’s the perfect time to embrace the spirit of giving by volunteering in your community. Here are some meaningful opportunities to consider:

1. Food Banks and Soup Kitchens

Help sort, pack, or serve meals at local food banks and soup kitchens, where the need for support increases during winter.

2. Shelters for the Homeless

Volunteer at shelters by preparing meals, organizing donations, or providing companionship to those in need.

3. Holiday Gift Drives

Join efforts to collect and wrap gifts for children and families. Many organizations run drives to ensure everyone has something special during the holidays.

4. Animal Shelters

If you love animals, consider volunteering at a local shelter. Tasks might include walking dogs, socializing with cats, or helping at adoption events.

5. Senior Centers

Visit seniors in nursing homes or community centers. Your time can bring joy and reduce feelings of loneliness during the holidays.

This season, let’s make a difference together. Every little act of kindness counts!

Have any questions? Interested in a career in real estate?

Contact YOUR real estate alliance today!

Phone: (920) 209-0863

Email: lori@loridibbs.com

Location: 516 E. Wisconsin Ave. Suite C, Appleton, WI 54911

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A Spooktacular Halloween!

A Spooktacular Halloween!

Halloween is upon us, a magical night filled with whimsical costumes, enchanting mysteries, and the exhilarating thrill of collecting sweet treasures! Get ready for an adventure as you prepare for the little ghosts and goblins knocking on your door. Check out the trick-or-treat times below for this Thursday, October 31st, and make sure you're ready to welcome the spirited visitors in style!

4:00-7:00 p.m.

  • Appleton *Till 8 p.m.
  • Black Creek *Till 6 p.m.
  • Fox Crossings
  • Freedom
  • Grand Chute
  • Greenville
  • Harrison
  • Kaukauna
  • Menasha
  • Neenah
  • Omro
  • Winneconne *Till 8 p.m.
  • Wrightstown

5:00-7:00 p.m.

  • Algoma
  • Bonduel
  • Combined Locks
  • Kimberly
  • Little Chute
  • New London
  • Oshkosh
  • Stockbridge
Learn more about the trick-or-treating times by visiting this site: https://govalleykids.com/trick-or-treat/

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Create a Cozy Appeal: Top Tips for Fall Home Staging

Create a Cozy Appeal: Top Tips for Fall Home Staging

As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, it’s the perfect time to make your home inviting for potential buyers. Here are some top tips for staging your home to incorporate the warm and cozy fall season:

1. Embrace Autumn Colors
Incorporate warm hues like deep oranges, browns, and golden yellows. Use throw pillows, blankets, and artwork to add these colors throughout your space.

2. Highlight Natural Elements
Bring the outdoors in with seasonal decor. Incorporate pumpkins, gourds, and vibrant foliage. A simple centerpiece on the dining table can make a big impact.

3. Create a Warm Ambiance
Enhance lighting with soft, warm bulbs, and use candles to add a cozy glow. Consider scented candles with fall fragrances like cinnamon, pumpkin, or apple pie.

4. Maximize Curb Appeal
Rake leaves, trim hedges, and plant seasonal flowers. A well-maintained exterior sets a positive first impression.

5. Seasonal Accessories
Swap out everyday decor for autumn-themed pieces. Think about a tasteful fall wreath or themed artwork that reflects the season.

By following these fall home staging tips, you can create a warm and inviting environment that appeals to buyers looking for a cozy place to call home. Happy staging!

Have any questions? Interested in a career in real estate?

Contact YOUR real estate alliance today!

Phone: (920) 209-0863

Email: lori@loridibbs.com

Location: 516 E. Wisconsin Ave. Suite C, Appleton, WI 54911

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Getting into the Fall Festivities!

Getting into the Fall Festivities!

As the leaves begin to turn and the air gets crisper, fall brings a host of exciting festivals that not only celebrate the season but also support our local small businesses in the Fox Valley. Here’s a roundup of the top fall festivities in our area that you won’t want to miss:

This fall, make a point to explore these wonderful festivities and show your support for small businesses in our community. Each event is a unique opportunity to discover local talent, enjoy seasonal delights, and connect with neighbors. Don’t forget to mark your calendars and invite friends and family to join in the fun!

Have any questions? Interested in a career in real estate?

Contact YOUR real estate alliance today!

Phone: (920) 209-0863

Email: lori@loridibbs.com

Location: 516 E. Wisconsin Ave. Suite C, Appleton, WI 54911

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Celebrating Success at Shred for Good 2024!

Celebrating Success at Shred for Good 2024!

What an incredible day we had at our Shred For Good event on Saturday! We are thrilled to announce that we served 175 cars and collected an impressive 1,114 pounds of food for the St. Joseph Food Program!

A heartfelt THANK YOU goes out to our incredible sponsors, dedicated volunteers, and everyone who came together to make this event such a success. Your support truly makes a difference in our community, and we couldn’t have achieved this milestone without you!

If you’re interested in getting involved next year, please reach out! We’d love to have you join us in making an even bigger impact. Together, we can continue to support those in need and strengthen our community. Stay tuned for next year's date—let’s make it even better!

Have any questions? Interested in a career in real estate?

Contact YOUR real estate alliance today!

Phone: (920) 209-0863

Email: lori@loridibbs.com

Location: 516 E. Wisconsin Ave. Suite C, Appleton, WI 54911

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See You on Saturday!

See You on Saturday!

You are invited to join us for our upcoming free community event featuring Paper Shredding and Electronic Recycling on Saturday, October 5, 2024 from 8am - 12pm located at 516 East Wisconsin Avenue, Appleton, WI. Safely dispose of your sensitive documents and outdated electronics. While this service is offered at no cost, we encourage you to bring food donations to St. Joseph Food Program.

For paper shredding, what to bring:

  • Old bank statements
  • Outdated tax records
  • Expired credit cards
  • Any papers with personal information

While there’s no limit for families and households, we do ask that organizations or businesses bring no more than 4 bags to ensure we have enough room for everyone. If you’re able to stop by toward the end of the event, we’ll do our best to accommodate any additional items if we have space left.

For electronics, we are accepting:

  • Vcr/dvd player/printers/typewriters/copy machines/computer towers
  • Clocks/radios/phones
  • CD’s/records/cassette tapes
  • TVs (only flat screens that are 2017 or newer)

Suggested food donation, we recommend:

  • Cereal & Oatmeal
  • Canned Vegetables, including low sodium
  • Canned Fruit, including "No Sugar" or in water
  • Canned Tuna & Chicken
  • Peanut Butter & Jelly, including sugar free
  • Meal Mixes & Sides
  • Soup*
  • Rice & Pasta

*We also encourage you to bring the October Food of the Month = Soup.

Thank you to all of our sponsors for making this event possible! Special thank you to The Breaking Point LLC, who will collect all the electronics. We hope to see you on Saturday!

Have any questions? Interested in a career in real estate?

Contact YOUR real estate alliance today!

Phone: (920) 209-0863

Email: lori@loridibbs.com

Location: 516 E. Wisconsin Ave. Suite C, Appleton, WI 54911

LDlogoAboutUs

Contact Lori Dibbs Today!

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Falling into Autumn Clean Up!

Falling into Autumn Clean Up!

As the vibrant colors of fall set in, it’s the perfect time for homeowners to tackle essential maintenance tasks that will keep their properties in top shape through the colder months. Start by inspecting your roof for any missing or damaged shingles that could lead to leaks during snow storms. Additionally, clearing gutters and downspouts of leaves and debris is crucial for preventing water damage and ensuring proper drainage as the weather shifts. Don’t forget to check your windows and doors for drafts; sealing any gaps will enhance energy efficiency and keep your home nice and cozy during those cold months.

Another key maintenance task is preparing your heating system for the season ahead. Schedule a professional inspection and cleaning of your furnace or boiler to ensure it’s running efficiently. Also, consider changing air filters to improve indoor air quality and reduce energy costs. Finally, taking care of outdoor spaces is important, too. Rake up fallen leaves, trim overgrown shrubs, and winterize any outdoor faucets to prevent freezing. By addressing these tasks now, you’ll not only protect your investment but also create a warm and cozy environment for family and friends throughout the cold months.

Have any questions? Interested in a career in real estate?

Contact YOUR real estate alliance today!

Phone: (920) 209-0863

Email: lori@loridibbs.com

Location: 516 E. Wisconsin Ave. Suite C, Appleton, WI 54911

LDlogoAboutUs

Contact Lori Dibbs Today!

Please enter your name.
Please enter a message.
Send

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See You at Shred for Good 2024!

See You at Shred for Good 2024!

Declutter your space and make a difference in your community! Join us for our upcoming free community event featuring Paper Shredding and Electronic Recycling on Saturday, October 5, 2024 from 8am - 12pm located at 516 East Wisconsin Avenue, Appleton, WI. Safely dispose of your sensitive documents and outdated electronics. While this service is offered at no cost, we encourage you to bring food donations to St. Joseph Food Program.

For paper shredding, what to bring:

  • Old bank statements
  • Outdated tax records
  • Expired credit cards
  • Any papers with personal information

While there’s no limit for families and households, we do ask that organizations or businesses bring no more than 4 bags to ensure we have enough room for everyone. If you’re able to stop by toward the end of the event, we’ll do our best to accommodate any additional items if we have space left.

For electronics, we are accepting:

  • Vcr/dvd player/printers/typewriters/copy machines/computer towers
  • Clocks/radios/phones
  • CD’s/records/cassette tapes
  • TVs (only flat screens that are 2017 or newer)

Suggested food donation, we recommend:

  • Cereal & Oatmeal
  • Canned Vegetables, including low sodium
  • Canned Fruit, including "No Sugar" or in water
  • Canned Tuna & Chicken
  • Peanut Butter & Jelly, including sugar free
  • Meal Mixes & Sides
  • Soup*
  • Rice & Pasta

*We also encourage you to bring the October Food of the Month = Soup.

Thank you to all of our sponsors for making this event possible! Special thank you to The Breaking Point LLC, who will collect all the electronics.

Have any questions? Interested in a career in real estate?

Contact YOUR real estate alliance today!

Phone: (920) 209-0863

Email: lori@loridibbs.com

Location: 516 E. Wisconsin Ave. Suite C, Appleton, WI 54911

LDlogoAboutUs

Contact Lori Dibbs Today!

Please enter your name.
Please enter a message.
Send

Subscribe To Our Weekly Blog Newsletter!

By submitting this form, you are consenting to receive marketing emails from: . You can revoke your consent to receive emails at any time by using the SafeUnsubscribe® link, found at the bottom of every email. Emails are serviced by Constant Contact