Your home no longer fits your lifestyle. Maybe your family has grown up, you’re now working from home or you’re ready to downsize. If your current space feels either too small or too big, it may be time to look for a better fit.

The numbers make sense. If property values in your area have risen, selling could give you a stash to put towards your next home. On the other hand, if your costs are becoming more than you’d like to handle, selling could ease financial strain.

You’re ready for a new environment. Sometimes it’s less about the house and more about the location. Maybe you want a shorter commute, more walkability or to be closer to family. If your current neighborhood no longer supports the life you want, it might be time to explore other options.

The maintenance is overwhelming. Older homes often come with endless repair lists. If you’re spending more weekends fixing than enjoying your home, selling could open the door to a lower-maintenance property.

If your home no longer feels like the right fit and you’d like to find one that is, call or email me today to start the search.

Close to rock bottom, John took a New Year’s Day hike in the hills of L.A. During the walk, he decided he’d find something to be grateful for every single day, regardless of what life threw at him. From there, he set about writing a thank-you note each day for the next 365 days, finding that, amazingly, there were constantly things right in front of him that he felt thankful for, things he never would have previously noticed.

The seemingly simple daily act served to completely transform his life, with his daily gratitude practice leading to a positive and successful outlook he could never have imagined back in those days in the apartment. John has now published a book, A Simple Act of Gratitude, detailing the journey his ritual has taken him on. He’s since given and received thousands of thank-you notes, finding that the universe reciprocates positivity when you put it out there.

John’s mantra is that when a machine fulfills a task for you, there’s an atmosphere of expectation. When a human does so, a thank-you note shows them that they are genuinely appreciated and important to you. This small act sets both of you apart, bringing peace and meaning to all.

Add butter and eggs, then mix. Add sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger and salt, then mix. Add evaporated milk and vanilla and mix until fully combined. Pour filling into the pie crust and bake at 350℉ for 50–60 minutes or until the top is nicely browned. Remove from oven and allow to cool for at least 30 minutes. Garnish with whipped cream. Serve.

Lifestyle fit. Think about your daily routine. Do you want a quick commute, walkable shops and cafés or quiet streets where you can unwind? A neighborhood that matches your lifestyle will feel like home faster than the most stylish kitchen ever could.

Budget reality. Every area has its own price point. Be clear on what you can afford, then explore neighborhoods where your budget stretches the farthest. Sometimes this means looking just outside the most obvious spots; you may find more space and value elsewhere without losing convenience.

Future growth. It’s always worth thinking about future development plans. A neighborhood with new parks, schools or a new transit system on the way could see property values rise. On the flip side, check for projects that may bring noise or traffic you don’t want.

Community and vibe. Visit the neighborhood at different times of day. Does it feel lively or calm? Are people out walking dogs, or do you see mostly cars rushing through? The small details tell you a lot about the kind of community you’d be joining.

Amenities and essentials. Don’t forget the practical side. Proximity to grocery stores, healthcare, schools and recreation can shape how you feel about an area. These everyday conveniences can make a big difference.

Your overall desires. At the end of the day, the “best” neighborhood isn’t about the trendiest spot on the map or the most pristine. It’s the place where your budget, needs and lifestyle come together. Take your time and trust both the data and your gut feeling.

Need more guidance on selecting where to live? Call or email me today for my advice.

Being grateful is proven to reduce depression. Try writing a daily gratitude journal, listing three things you’re grateful for each day. Even if you’re going through a hard time, doing this will help you appreciate the good things around you that you may not have even noticed, reducing your stress levels.

Being grateful improves sleep. Going to bed on a happy thought helps you to throw away nighttime anxiety and sleep more peacefully. Think of someone who’s affected your life for the better and go and say “thank you” to them. Thinking of their positive impact on you as you hit the pillow will send you off to sleep soundly.

Being grateful improves digestion. Amazingly, studies have shown that there is a link between our attitudes towards our body and its ability to digest properly. So taking a moment to say to yourself, “I am thankful for my body and what it does for me” can help to actually improve your digestive system’s functions!

Being grateful improves your senses. Showing thanks for the things around you can actually help you have a heightened appreciation of things like scents, sounds and sights. Taking a minute’s break every now and then to simply be grateful for the things in front of you can help improve your senses to no end.