What Does “Due Diligence” Mean in a Virginia Home Purchase?

Moving is a big deal… and your pets know it. Even if they don’t understand what “closing day” means, they definitely notice the boxes, the missing furniture, and the change in routine. The good news: with a little planning, you can make moving day calmer, safer, and way less chaotic for everyone. Here’s a practical, pet-friendly moving guide that works whether you’re relocating across town or making a big move to a new state. 1) Prep your pet before the chaos starts Pets thrive on routine, so a move can feel like the whole world is shifting. A few small steps ahead of time can prevent major stress later. Schedule a vet visit (especially if your pet is due for vaccines or medications). Update microchip + tags with your new address/phone number. Ask for medical records and refill prescriptions before moving week. Practice the carrier (leave it out, toss treats inside, let it become “normal” again). If your pet gets anxious in cars, talk with your vet about safe options for travel comfort. 2) Pack a “Pet Essentials” bag (do this early!) You’ll have a box for coffee mugs… your pet needs one too. Include: 3–5 days of food + treats bowls + bottled water leash/harness + poop bags litter + litter box (cats) favorite toy/blanket (something that smells like home) meds + vet paperwork cleaning supplies for accidents (it happens!) Pro tip: keep this bag with you — not on the moving truck. 3) Moving day: set up a “safe room” Moving day is loud, doors are open, strangers come and go, and pets can bolt. Choose a bathroom, bedroom, or laundry room and set it up with: food/water litter box (cats) bed/blanket calming music or a white-noise app a sign on the door: “PET INSIDE — DO NOT OPEN” This alone prevents most moving-day pet mishaps. 4) Traveling to your new home (car tips) If you’re driving with pets: No free-roaming pets in the car. Use a carrier or seatbelt harness. Plan stops (but keep cats safely contained). Never leave pets in a parked car, even for a “quick minute.” Bring a towel and backup supplies — just in case. If you’re flying, check airline rules early and confirm crate requirements. 5) First day in the new home: keep it familiar When you arrive, pets can feel overwhelmed. Start them in one area, let them adjust slowly, and bring familiar scents into the new space. Unpack their stuff first (bed, bowls, litter, toys). Feed them at the usual time. Keep walks short and close to home at first (new sounds, new smells). Watch doors carefully — pets are more likely to slip out in the first week. 6) What about fences, yards, and rural living? If you’re moving to an area with more land (hello SWVA/NETN!), it’s a dream for many pet owners — but it comes with a few considerations: Check fencing quality and gate security Ask about local wildlife (and talk to your vet about prevention) Confirm leash rules in neighborhoods and parks Consider training refreshers if your pet will have more open space 7) Give it time — moving stress is normal A lot of pets act “off” after a move: hiding, clingy behavior, reduced appetite, extra barking/meowing. Most settle within a few days to a few weeks. If anything feels extreme or lasts too long, your vet can help. Quick Checklist: Pet-Friendly Move ✅ Vet visit + updated tags/microchip ✅ Pet essentials bag packed early ✅ Safe room on moving day ✅ Secure travel (carrier/harness) ✅ Start with one room in the new home ✅ Maintain routine and familiarity

Winter is often viewed as a slow season for home projects—but it’s actually one of the best times to tackle renovations that add comfort, efficiency, and long-term value. With more time spent indoors, winter projects can make your home work better now and prepare it for the busy spring market. Here’s a smart winter renovation list to help homeowners make the most of the season. 1. Refresh Interior Paint Winter is an ideal time for painting: Faster drying with controlled indoor temperatures Less humidity than warmer months Minimal disruption to outdoor spaces Neutral, light tones can brighten rooms during darker months and appeal to buyers later. 2. Upgrade Lighting Shorter days highlight the importance of good lighting. Consider: Replacing outdated fixtures Adding LED or recessed lighting Installing dimmer switches for flexibility Lighting upgrades are relatively inexpensive and can dramatically improve a home’s feel. 3. Focus on Energy Efficiency Cold weather exposes inefficiencies quickly. Winter is the time to: Seal windows and doors Add weather stripping Upgrade thermostats to smart models Service HVAC systems Energy-efficient homes are not only more comfortable—they’re more attractive to buyers. 4. Update Kitchens and Bathrooms You don’t need a full remodel to make an impact. Small updates go a long way: New cabinet hardware Updated faucets Modern light fixtures Fresh grout or caulk These rooms sell homes, and winter is a great time to make them shine. 5. Flooring and Trim Improvements Interior projects like: New flooring Refinished hardwoods Updated baseboards or trim can be completed without worrying about outdoor weather delays—and they add noticeable value. 6. Organize and Declutter Winter is perfect for tackling storage areas: Closets Pantries Basements Garages Decluttering makes daily life easier and sets you up perfectly if selling is in your future. 7. Plan for Spring Projects Even if you’re not ready to start outdoor renovations, winter is ideal for: Getting contractor quotes Planning landscaping Budgeting for exterior updates Being prepared early means you’ll beat the spring rush. Renovate With Purpose Not every renovation pays off equally. Before starting a project, it’s wise to understand how updates affect your home’s value—especially if selling is on your radar. At Uptown Properties, we help homeowners prioritize renovations that make sense for their goals and the local market. Whether you’re improving your home to enjoy it or preparing for a future sale, guidance matters. 🏡 Uptown Properties | All Things Home—Every Season of Life

Super Bowl Sunday is about more than football—it’s about friends, food, and gathering in the heart of your home. Whether you’re hosting a full house or keeping it low-key, a little preparation goes a long way toward enjoying the game instead of managing chaos. Here are some simple, no-stress tips to help you host like a pro. Set Up a Game-Day Flow Before guests arrive, think about how people will move through your space. Create a natural flow from the TV to the kitchen and snack areas so guests aren’t bumping into each other every time they need a refill. Pro tip: Set up one main food station and a separate drink station to avoid traffic jams. Keep the Menu Simple (Really) Super Bowl food should be easy to grab, eat, and enjoy—no forks required. Crowd-pleasing favorites include: Sliders or wings Chips with a few dips Veggie trays or finger foods A slow-cooker item that stays warm all game Simple food means more time enjoying the game—and less time in the kitchen. Make Your Living Room Guest-Ready You don’t need a full deep clean, but a few quick touches can make a big difference: Clear coffee tables and side tables Add extra throw blankets or floor seating Turn on lamps instead of overhead lights for a cozy feel Comfort matters just as much as the score. Don’t Forget the Halftime Reset Halftime is the perfect moment to: Refill snacks and drinks Quick-wipe surfaces Take out trash if needed Five minutes of reset = a calm second half. Hosting Shows Off What a Home Can Do One of the best things about hosting game day is realizing how much a home brings people together. Open living areas, spacious kitchens, finished basements, and outdoor spaces all shine during events like this. If you ever find yourself thinking, “I wish I had a bigger space for this,” it might be time to start exploring options. Home Is Where the Memories Are Made From cheering wins to friendly rivalries, Super Bowl Sunday creates memories that last long after the final whistle. And the best part? It all happens at home. At Uptown Properties, we help buyers and sellers find homes that fit their lifestyle—whether that means hosting game day, holiday dinners, or quiet nights in. Thinking about making a move this year? We’d love to help you find a home that’s ready for your next celebration. 🏡 Uptown Properties | All Things Home—On Game Day and Every Day

If you’ve ever pulled up a home online and thought, “Wait… that number can’t be right,” you’re not imagining it—especially in rural markets. Online estimates can be a helpful starting point, but in Southwest Virginia and Northeast Tennessee (and other rural areas), they’re often off because rural real estate simply doesn’t behave like cookie-cutter neighborhoods. Here’s why. What those online estimates really are Most big websites use an AVM (Automated Valuation Model). It’s basically an algorithm that tries to predict value using: Recent sales in the area Public record data (beds/baths, square footage, lot size, etc.) Market trends and historical pricing patterns That works reasonably well in subdivisions where 10 similar homes sold this year. In rural areas, that “similar home” is often… not a thing. Why rural estimates are often inaccurate 1) Not enough true “comps” Rural properties can be miles apart, and sales volume can be lower. If there aren’t enough comparable homes nearby, the model stretches to find “similar” sales—sometimes too far away or in a totally different micro-market. 2) Land isn’t one-size-fits-all Acreage value varies wildly based on: Usable vs. steep land Road frontage and access Views, streams, timber, pasture, or cleared land Fencing, barns, outbuildings, and farm improvements Algorithms often treat land like a simple math equation. Real land value is more nuanced. 3) Unique features confuse the model Rural homes often have features that don’t show up cleanly in public records: Finished basements (or partially finished spaces) Detached garages, workshops, barns Guest houses, income-producing units Higher-end renovations or custom construction If the data is missing or outdated, the estimate can be dramatically low—or oddly high. 4) Condition matters more than the internet can see Two homes can have the same square footage and still be tens of thousands apart because of: Roof age, HVAC, windows Deferred maintenance Updated kitchens/baths Foundation or drainage issues Online estimates can’t walk through the home. Condition is everything. 5) Wells, septic, and private roads aren’t always reflected well Rural infrastructure can change marketability and cost: Well depth/quality, filtration systems Septic type, capacity, and condition Private road maintenance agreements or shared drive access These details rarely translate accurately into automated estimates. 6) Rural “micro-markets” are real In rural areas, one side of the mountain can price differently than the other. School districts, commute times, internet availability, and even cell service can impact value. Algorithms struggle with these hyper-local drivers. 7) The estimate can lag behind reality When the market shifts (up or down), online numbers may update slowly—especially where sales are infrequent. The biggest mistake people make with online estimates Treating the number like a fact instead of a guess. For homeowners: it can lead to overconfidence (“My house is worth X!”) or unnecessary worry (“Why is it so low?”). For buyers: it can create confusion (“Why are they asking more than the estimate?”). For sellers: it can cause missed money or longer days on market if pricing is built on the wrong data. So what should you use instead? A local CMA (Comparative Market Analysis) A good CMA looks at: True comparable sales (and adjusts properly) Condition, updates, layout, and functionality Land usability and features Market demand for that specific type of property A pricing strategy—not just a number Pricing well is part math, part marketing, part psychology. The goal isn’t just “value”—it’s attracting the right buyers and creating strong demand. Want to know what your home is really worth? If you’re in Virginia or Tennessee and you’d like a real-world value range, I can run a local CMA and explain the “why” behind the numbers (not just hand you a figure). Text me at 276-623-3718: Your address Any major updates (roof/HVAC/kitchen/baths) Acreage + any outbuildings …and I’ll help you get a value picture that actually matches the local market.

Owning a rental property can be one of the best wealth-building moves you make—until it starts feeling like a second full-time job. Between late-night maintenance calls, tenant screening, lease renewals, and staying compliant with ever-changing requirements, it’s easy for “passive income” to turn into constant stress. That’s where we come in. At Uptown Properties, we provide full-service property management designed to protect your investment, reduce your risk, and help you build long-term returns—without you having to be the one answering the phone at 9:47 PM. What we manage (and who we help) We work with: First-time landlords who want to do it right from day one Busy owners who live out of town (or out of state) Investors growing a rental portfolio Accidental landlords who kept a home and rented it out Owners who are tired of “self-managing” and ready for peace of mind Whether you have one rental or multiple doors, we build a plan around your goals, your property, and your comfort level. What full-service property management looks like at Uptown 1) Tenant screening that protects your property A great tenancy starts before move-in. We use a consistent screening process to help place qualified tenants and reduce the likelihood of payment issues, property damage, and early move-outs. 2) Clear leases + consistent enforcement Strong leases and documented procedures matter. We focus on clear expectations from the beginning—so everyone understands the rules, responsibilities, and process. 3) Rent collection and owner statements You shouldn’t have to chase rent. We handle rent collection and provide reporting so you can track performance without spreadsheets and guesswork. 4) Maintenance coordination that saves time (and prevents bigger problems) Small issues become expensive issues when they’re ignored. We coordinate maintenance, communicate with tenants, and document repairs—so your property stays protected and tenants stay satisfied. 5) Inspections + documentation A big part of management is verification. We perform inspections and maintain records so owners have visibility and tenants have accountability. 6) Renewals, notices, and transition management Lease renewals, end-of-term processes, and move-outs are where many landlords get burned. We manage the timeline, communication, and steps—so things stay organized and compliant. Why local management matters In property management, local knowledge is a real advantage. Our team understands the rental market, vendor landscape, and tenant expectations in our area—and we’re close enough to respond quickly when it counts. With Uptown, you get: A local team that knows the market Professional systems (not “winging it”) Reliable communication and documentation A management plan built around protecting your investment Is it time to hire a property manager? Here are a few signs it might be: You’re overwhelmed with calls, repairs, and tenant issues You’re unsure if your lease and processes are strong enough Your tenant turnover feels too frequent You want to scale your rental portfolio You live far away or just want your time back If any of that sounds familiar, a conversation can save you money—and a whole lot of stress. Let’s talk about your rental goals If you’re looking for a professional, local team to manage your investment with care and consistency, we’d love to help. Contact Uptown Properties to schedule a property management consultation and find out what managing your rental could look like with the right partner. Property Management You Can Trust We handle tenant screening, rent collection, maintenance coordination, inspections, renewals, and more—so you can protect your investment and enjoy the benefits of owning rental property without the daily stress.

Every year on February 2nd, all eyes turn to Punxsutawney Phil to see whether we’re in for six more weeks of winter—or an early spring. While it’s a lighthearted tradition, Groundhog Day also marks a subtle shift in how people start thinking about home, moving, and the year ahead. The Tradition Behind Groundhog Day Groundhog Day dates back more than a century and is rooted in folklore. If the groundhog sees his shadow, winter sticks around a bit longer. If not, spring is right around the corner. Either way, February 2nd tends to spark a mindset change—people start planning instead of hibernating. Why This Time of Year Matters in Real Estate Even if spring feels far away, the real estate market begins warming up now. This is when: Buyers start watching listings more closely Sellers begin prepping homes for spring Lenders see an uptick in pre-approvals Families start planning moves before summer Groundhog Day is often the unofficial signal that the busy season is coming. For Homeowners: Now Is Prep Season If you’re thinking about selling this year, February is the perfect time to: Declutter and organize Start small repairs or updates Schedule a home value review Plan exterior touch-ups once weather improves Getting ahead now means less stress when the market heats up. For Buyers: Planning Beats Waiting Buyers who plan early often have the strongest position. That includes: Talking with a lender Understanding budgets and monthly payments Watching local inventory Being ready to act when the right home appears Spring competition is real—preparation gives you an edge. Shadow or No Shadow—Change Is Coming Whether winter lingers or spring comes early, one thing is certain: change is coming. Groundhog Day is a reminder that seasons shift—and so do housing needs. At Uptown Properties, we help our clients plan ahead, not just react. Whether you’re buying, selling, or just curious about your home’s value, this is a great time to start the conversation. 🏡 Uptown Properties | All Things Home, In Every Season

February 1st is British Yorkshire Pudding Day, and while it may not be a household tradition here in Southwest Virginia or Northeast Tennessee (yet!), it’s the perfect excuse to celebrate comfort food, gathering around the table, and the joy of home. Despite the name, Yorkshire pudding isn’t a dessert—it’s a warm, savory classic traditionally served with roast beef, gravy, and family. What Is Yorkshire Pudding? Yorkshire pudding is a light, fluffy, oven-baked dish made from a simple batter of eggs, flour, and milk. When baked in a hot pan, it rises dramatically, creating a crisp outside and a soft, airy center—perfect for soaking up gravy. In the UK, it’s a staple of Sunday roasts and family meals, passed down through generations. Why Food Traditions Matter at Home Food has a special way of turning a house into a home. Whether it’s a recipe handed down from grandparents or a new dish you try just for fun, meals bring people together. Celebrating something like Yorkshire Pudding Day is a reminder that: Homes are meant for gathering Kitchens are the heart of the home Traditions don’t have to be big to be meaningful Sometimes, it’s the simplest moments that create the best memories. A Fun Reason to Try Something New February can feel long and gray, which makes it the perfect time to: Try a new recipe Invite friends or family over for dinner Slow down and enjoy a cozy evening at home Even if Yorkshire pudding is new to you, it’s easy to make and pairs well with classic comfort foods we already love. Homes Built for Gathering Events like family dinners, game days, and Sunday meals highlight how much our living spaces matter. Open kitchens, dining areas, and comfortable living rooms make it easier to host—and easier to enjoy the moment. If you’ve ever found yourself wishing for a better space to cook, gather, or entertain, it may be time to think about what your next home could offer. Celebrating Home, One Tradition at a Time At Uptown Properties, we believe home is about more than square footage—it’s about the life you live inside it. From everyday meals to special traditions (even the British ones!), the right home makes room for it all. Whether you’re cooking something new this February 1st or just enjoying a cozy night in, here’s to homes filled with warmth, food, and good company. 🏡 Uptown Properties | All Things Home, Every Day

When you’re getting ready to buy a home, most people focus on interest rates, down payments, and monthly payments. But there’s another piece of the puzzle that can play a big role in your home loan approval—your taxes. Understanding how your tax history affects the mortgage process can save you time, stress, and surprises along the way. Why Lenders Look at Your Taxes When you apply for a mortgage, lenders aren’t just looking at what you earn today—they want a clear picture of your financial stability. That’s why they typically review the last two years of tax returns, especially if you are: Self-employed A business owner Commission-based Working multiple jobs or side gigs Your tax returns help lenders verify your income, spot patterns, and confirm that what you earn is consistent and reliable. Owing Taxes Isn’t Always a Deal Breaker This is a big misconception. Owing money to the IRS does not automatically disqualify you from getting a home loan. What matters more is: Are you current on a payment plan? Have you filed all required tax returns? Can you document the arrangement? Many buyers are surprised to learn they can still qualify for a mortgage while on an IRS payment plan—as long as everything is properly documented. Write-Offs Can Reduce Buying Power While tax deductions are great at tax time, they can sometimes work against you when buying a home. Here’s why: Lenders use your net income, not gross income Large write-offs can make your income appear lower on paper Lower income may reduce the loan amount you qualify for This is especially important for self-employed buyers. It doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take deductions—but it does mean planning ahead matters. What Buyers Can Do to Prepare If buying a home is on your radar in the next year or two, here are a few smart steps to take now: File taxes on time every year Keep copies of tax returns and W-2s or 1099s Talk with a lender before house hunting Coordinate with your CPA if you’re self-employed Avoid major financial changes right before applying A little planning can make a big difference when it’s time to apply. We’re Here to Help You Plan Buying a home isn’t just about finding the right property—it’s about preparing financially so the process is smooth from start to finish. At Uptown Properties, we work closely with trusted local lenders who can help you understand how your taxes, income, and goals fit into your home-buying plan—before you ever submit an offer. If you’re thinking about buying in Southwest Virginia or Northeast Tennessee and have questions about your finances, let’s talk. A simple conversation now can put you in a much stronger position later. 📞 Reach out to Uptown Properties today—because smart planning leads to confident buying.

If you’ve been thinking, “We need to do something to this house…” — home show season is the best place to start. You can compare vendors side-by-side, see new products in person, and get real quotes without 50 phone calls. First up: Appalachian Fair Home Show (Feb 13–15, 2026) The Appalachian Fair Home Show is happening February 13–15, 2026 at the Appalachian Fairgrounds in Gray, TN, and it’s listed as free admission. They’ll have a wide range of vendors (remodeling, outdoor living, décor, DIY, and more), and you can browse the exhibitor list ahead of time. Before you go: 6 things to bring so you don’t waste your time Photos/videos of the spaces you want to improve (inside + outside). Rough measurements (room size, window width, cabinet wall length, etc.). A simple budget range (even if it’s wide). Your “must haves” list (ex: “low maintenance,” “better insulation,” “safer deck”). A notes app with vendor names + what they quoted. Questions ready (see below). The “Best Bang for Your Buck” upgrades (seller-smart + homeowner-smart) If you’re doing projects with resale in mind, the data keeps pointing to exterior first impressions as the biggest payoff. According to the 2025 Cost vs. Value Report (national averages), top ROI projects include: Garage door replacement (reported around 268% recouped) Steel entry door replacement (around 216% recouped) Manufactured stone veneer (around 208% recouped) Fiber-cement siding and minor kitchen remodels also score well What this means in plain English: If you’re spending money, start with what buyers see first (entry + exterior), then move to function + efficiency, then do “pretty.” What NOT to overspend on (if resale is your goal) Big-ticket projects done only to “add value” don’t always pay back the way people expect. Zillow’s research notes that modest improvements that make a home cleaner, safer, and more functional are often the better bet, while some expensive upgrades may not deliver dollar-for-dollar returns. Questions to ask every vendor (this protects you) When you find someone you like, ask: Are you licensed/insured for this work in TN/VA (whichever applies)? What’s included vs. not included (demo, disposal, permits, electrical, etc.) Timeline: when could you start, and how long will it take? Warranty: product warranty + labor warranty (get it in writing). Payment terms: deposit amount + milestone payments (avoid “pay it all up front”). Can I see local references or recent jobs? Pro tip: if you get a quote at the show, ask them to email it to you so you can compare apples-to-apples later. Easy “home show targets” to look for (depending on your goal) If you’re selling in the next 6–12 months: entry door / garage door lighting updates flooring refresh in main areas small kitchen upgrades (hardware, faucet, backsplash, paint) If you’re staying put and want comfort: insulation / air sealing HVAC maintenance or replacement planning windows/doors for drafts backup power options (if that’s a concern in your area) If you want lifestyle upgrades: decks/patios/pergolas outdoor lighting fencing storage solutions My favorite way to use a home show Go for inspiration, get 3–5 solid leads, then come home and decide: “Is this a ‘love where you live’ upgrade… or a ‘get top dollar’ upgrade?” Both are valid — you just don’t want to mix the two without a plan.