New Year and New Beginnings

As the calendar flips to a new year, many of us are inspired by the promise of new beginnings. This is especially true in real estate, where buyers and sellers alike are eager to make fresh starts. Whether you're looking to purchase your first home, upgrade to a larger space, or sell a property that's no longer meeting your needs, the new year is an ideal time to take action.

For buyers, the start of a new year often brings renewed motivation and a sense of optimism. With holiday decorations packed away and schedules returning to normal, it's a great time to start house hunting. Take advantage of the quieter winter months to explore neighborhoods, attend open houses, and get pre-approved for a mortgage. The market may be less competitive now than during the spring and summer rush, giving you more opportunities to find your dream home.

Sellers can also benefit from listing their homes at the beginning of the year. Serious buyers are always on the lookout, and with fewer properties on the market during winter, your home has a better chance of standing out. Make sure your home is warm and inviting for showings—think cozy throws, soft lighting, and perhaps even a comforting aroma wafting from the kitchen.

Speaking of comfort, nothing says "new beginnings" like gathering around the table for a hearty meal with loved ones. This winter, try out this delicious recipe for chicken and dumplings:

Ingredients:

- 1 stick unsalted butter

- 1 sweet onion, finely chopped

- 2 celery ribs, finely chopped

- 2 carrots, diced

- 3 cloves of garlic, minced

- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

- 1 tsp hot sauce

- 1/2 cup flour

- 6 cups hot water

- 6 tsp Better Than Bouillon Chicken

- 2 cups half and half

- 1/2 tsp thyme

- 2 bay leaves

- 2 tsp kosher salt

- Pepper to taste

- 1.5-2 lbs chicken breasts, sliced thinly (seasoned w/ salt and pepper)

- 1 pkg dumplings (I prefer Maryhill Dumplings)

Instructions:

1. Melt butter in a Dutch Oven over medium heat.

2. Cook onions, celery, and carrots for about 5-10 mins.

3. Add hot sauce, pepper, salt, Worcestershire, and thyme.  Cook for 1 min.

4. Add flour and toss to coat.  Cook for 2 mins.

5. Add hot water cup by cup on small splashes, stirring continuously until well blended.

6. Scrape up any remnants from the bottom of the pot.

7. Add Better Than Bouillon and stir.

8. Add Half & Half in the same manner as water and bring to a boil.  Cover and simmer for 10 mins.

9. Add chicken, bring to a boil, cover, and simmer for 10 mins.

10. Add dumplings (cut in half or into fourths).  Cover and simmer for 20 mins.

Enjoy this comforting dish as you embark on your new real estate journey this year!

Embracing new beginnings in real estate can lead to exciting opportunities for both buyers and sellers. And while you're navigating these changes, don't forget to savor the simple joys of life—like sharing a homemade meal with those who matter most. Here's to new adventures in the year ahead!