Articles Tagged "Massillon OH"

Outdoor recreation is a popular activity in Stark County, but sometimes you want to stay active without bundling up in layers. Fortunately, the area is home to many indoor recreation venues that let you stay comfortable as you skate, swim, bowl, or pursue other activities. Our real estate agents recommend the following indoor destinations for wintertime fun around Stark County.

1. Sky Zone Belden Village - 4381 Whipple Ave. NW, Canton, Ohio 44718
   If you're looking for some indoor fun that lets the whole family get active, head to Sky Zone Belden Village. Located near Canton homes for sale, the entertainment park has a large number of activities to keep everyone happily occupied. Work on your craziest stunts in the Foam Zone, or climb, spin, or practice stunts on aerial silks over a foam pit. You can also make your way across a frustratingly fidgety ladder or zoom down a slide. 
   
   
2. Center Ice Sports Complex - 8319 Port Jackson Ave. NW, North Canton, Ohio 44720
   Center Ice Sports Complex is the place to lace up your skates and just have fun or work on perfecting your skills. Reserve an open skate time to enjoy gliding around the rink, and look for a theme night to make your visit even more fun. If you're just getting started, Learn to Skate programs are available for all ages and abilities. Open figure skating time is available for solo practices or to meet with coaches, and a program is offered to help you advance your skills to the next level. Ice time is also available for hockey players to learn skating or stick skills or to practice on their own.
   
   
3. North Canton Skate & Entertainment Center - 5475 Whipple Ave. NW, North Canton, Ohio 44720  
   North Canton Skate & Entertainment Center has grown considerably since its start in 1960. It started out as a skating center, which is still there but has new hardwood floors as well as a sound, video, and lighting system. A variety of other activities have been added to turn the venue into an entertainment center, including laser tag, bumper cars, a rock wall, a laser maze, jump-shot basketball, and a large arcade. 
   
   
4. Massillon Recreation Center - 505 Erie St. N, Massillon, Ohio 44646
   Operated by the city, the Massillon Recreation Center has a nice variety of activities. Conveniently located near Massillon homes for sale, it serves as the downtown trailhead for the Ohio & Canal Towpath, a north/south multipurpose trail. Visit the Aquatic Center and have your choice of a lap pool, lazy river, multi-purpose/splash-down pool, and kiddie play area. You can also glide down two 19-foot water slides or spend time in a dry sauna. To get active away from the water, play basketball or volleyball in the gym, or run or walk around the mondo-cushioned indoor track.
   
   
5. Park Centre Lanes - 7313 Whipple Ave. NW, North Canton, OH 44720
   Bowl with friends or family as you get together for some fun, or if you're more serious about bowling, join one of the leagues that play at Park Centre Lanes. For a fun twist on the game, stop by for Glow Bowling, which features over 100 black lights, an outstanding sound system, 40 digital music stations, and an amazing light show to add to the experience.

Contact us if you'd like to sell your home or want to buy a new one. We'll use our experience and knowledge to help you sell your home as quickly as possible and for the most money possible. And if you're looking to buy, we'll show you North Canton homes for sale that meet your criteria.

With the rising prices in the housing market skyrocketing over the last couple of years, potential homeowners have often lost hope in achieving their goals. If that includes you, don't give up now. Financial indicators point to the very real possibility of significant price drops in 2023, once again opening the door to your home purchase. Our real estate agents want to help you make sure your finances are in order by sharing these five focal points for your consideration.

• Safeguard Your Savings
  Now is not the time for extravagant purchases. Your available cash must be sufficient to cover the down payment, pay for inspections and closing costs, and cover moving expenses. Remember, the higher the down payment, the lower the amount you will be required to finance and, subsequently, the lower your monthly payment. 
  
  
• Clean Up Your Credit Report
  While credit cards often provide a monthly score to their holders, most Americans are in the dark about how the process works, the errors that can damage their credit score, and how they can repair it. A credit report is a guide to lenders as to the creditworthiness of the borrower. It records the individual's debt and payment status and history. From those facts, the reporting bureau assigns a score. If those facts are incorrect, the impact on the score can be negatively affected without merit.
  
  For this reason, the Federal Government passed the Fair Credit Reporting Act in 1970. It guarantees the creditor a free report from each bureau once a year via the website Annualcreditreport.com. This is the only authorized website, although plenty of pretenders can recommend actions that will damage your credit. Don't fall for their offers to clean up your score quickly. If you need assistance understanding the report, contact a credit counseling agency approved by the Department of Justice, which will provide free counseling, including specialized programs for first-time homebuyers. 
  
  
• Increase Your Credit Score
  In addition to correcting erroneous information on your credit report, you must also address the financial habits that affect your creditworthiness. Pay all of your bills on time, every time. A forgotten purchase on a seldom-used card can make your score plummet. You can avoid the issue by setting up each card to draw a minimum payment each month. Your bank won't forget to make your payment even if you do.
  
  
• Lower Your Debt Level
  Following your payment history, your debt load is the next greatest factor in determining your credit score. A healthy debt-to-income ratio is 15% or less, while 20% or higher is considered a red flag to creditors. The only ways to reduce your debt load are to pay down your current obligations and avoid incurring any more. It may be tempting to use a credit card to avoid dipping into your savings. But when you're planning a home purchase, the debt load is critical to the viability of the loan. Use cash when you must and avoid the purchase when you can. Put off large purchases such as new vehicles or furniture until after you buy your home.
  
  
• Seek Loan Preapproval
  Before you shop for North Canton homes for sale or Akron homes for sale, shop for a lender. By doing so, you will learn how much you can spend on a house and how much you will need for a down payment. Compare rates and terms to find the best deal for you. 

Whether you're at the beginning of the process or ready to buy, contact us to help you with your next steps toward homeownership. 

Candy is a stocking stuffer you really can't go wrong with since there's a variety to suit any taste. Stark County is home to many candy shops that sell handcrafted chocolates and other goodies, so why not head out to a local business when you're buying small treats for stockings?
  
Our real estate agents recommend the following Stark County candy shops when you're ready to stuff your stockings:

• Ben Heggy Candy Co. - 743 Cleveland Ave. NW, Canton, OH 44702  
  Ben Heggy Candy Co. has been supplying customers in Ohio and far beyond with handcrafted candies and chocolates since 1923. Customer favorites include caramels, enhanced by the addition of walnuts, pecans, almonds, or butterscotch. Or choose delicious chocolate creams such as one that includes fresh red raspberry puree cooked and mixed so it's wonderfully creamy before being coated in chocolate. Whether you're stuffing stockings for recipients who love milk chocolate or ones who prefer dark chocolate, you'll have plenty of yummy choices at the shop, located near Canton homes for sale.
  
  
• Anastasiades Exclusive Chocolates - 6656 Wise Ave. NW, North Canton, OH 44720
  The delicious aroma of all the goodies at Anastasiades Exclusive Chocolates will make you want to treat yourself while buying some stocking stuffers. Beautifully decorated truffles taste as good as they look. You'll also be tempted by sea salt caramels, buckeyes, and individually wrapped chocolates, including peanut clusters, French mints, English toffee crunch, and milk and dark chocolate marshmallows. The shop, located close to North Canton homes for sale, is also well known for its peppermint bark and turtle pretzel rods, both of which are holiday favorites.
  
  
• Waggoner Chocolates - 1281 S. Main St., North Canton, OH 44720
  Growing from a chocolate business that was started in a Canton basement in 1922, Waggoner Chocolates is now a thriving business that serves locals as well as chocolate lovers throughout the country and abroad. The shop uses fresh ingredients to make treats for every sweet tooth. Pick up some of their chocolate-covered marshmallows, sea salt caramels, or traditional chocolates in every variety you could think of. You'll also find creative treats like a real white confection key lime or real dark chocolate blueberry. 
  
  
• Deliciously Different Candies - 136 N. Canal St., Canal Fulton, OH 44614 
  Stop by Deliciously Different Candies, located near Canal Fulton homes for sale, for hand-dipped chocolates, made-from-scratch fudge, and other goodies. Buy some European-style truffles in flavors such as White Russian, tiramisu, or strawberry, or pick up a few varieties of old-time favorites such as haystacks, mint patties, or cherry cordials. Deliciously Different Candies is also known for its unique specialties, such as canal mud, Hawaiian snappers, and pecan puddles.
  
  
• Chocolate by Erin - 1314 Erie St. S., Massillon, OH 44654
  Chocolate by Erin has just about every chocolate treat you can think of and many that you probably haven't heard of but will still love. The shop, located just around the corner from Massillon homes for sale, is known for its Handmade Designer Bark, available in over 20 flavors. The dark chocolate cranberry blueberry almond is the most popular, and additional tasty varieties include white chocolate key lime. Peanut butter fudge, homemade marshmallows and peanut brittle also make great stocking stuffers, and you can also add a few interesting treats like Twinkies or potato chips dipped in chocolate.

Ready to find a home in Ohio that you'll love to call home? Contact us to see homes in Stark County around Canton and North Canton, and we'll put our knowledge and experience to work for you! 

The winter season brings shorter days, longer nights, and chilly temperatures that require extra effort to stay warm indoors and save on energy bills. With cold weather just around the corner, our real estate agents have five great tips that will make it easier for you to stay warm and cozy at home this winter.

1. Light Up the Fireplace
   Ohio winters can be harsh, with temperatures that drop well below freezing. If your home has a fireplace, take advantage of the extra warmth and cozy atmosphere you get by building a fire. While most newer homes have built-in fireplaces, some older Akron homes for sale have wood stoves that still put out a lot of heat. Either way, throwing on some logs and starting a fire is a great way to get rid of that winter chill. If you have an outdoor fireplace or a fire pit, you can even enjoy roasting marshmallows on a cold night.

2. Throw Down Some Rugs
   You may have beautiful hardwood, stone, or ceramic tile floors, but they won't keep your feet and tootsies warm during cold winters. Nothing is worse than stepping onto a freezing hard floor first thing in the morning or late at night. Fuzzy slippers and socks will help keep your feet warm, but throwing down some area rugs will create insulation and warmer rooms in your home. Investing in a few wool rugs or runners, shaggy, thick rugs, and fuzzy bathroom mats will keep you from jumping back into bed on a chilly morning.

3. Close the Curtains
   If your home has shutters, shades, or blinds, you're likely feeling a little colder during winter weather. These sleek window treatments are popular in many North Canton homes for sale, but they don't provide much insulation against the cold air that sneaks through your windows. To warm up your room, consider adding floor-to-ceiling curtains that you can close over your shutters, shades, and blinds. Choose a heavier fabric and an insulated lining that will keep the cold air outside and the warm air inside during freezing winter temperatures.

4. Pile on the Throw Blankets
   When planning and decorating for winter, throw blankets and quilts for your home are a must. Whether your design style reflects a traditional, farmhouse, mid-century modern, or contemporary interior, you can find beautiful and affordable throw blankets and quilts that will keep your thermostat lower and keep you warmer on chilly days and nights.

• • Sofas and Chairs – Draping warm blankets or throws over your sofas and chairs will create cozy, inviting spaces for guests, family conversations, watching movies and TV, reading books, and enjoying a cup of coffee or hot chocolate.

  • Bedding – When winter arrives, swap out your bedding with warmer sheets, throws, blankets or quilts, and duvet covers. Changing to fleece or cotton flannel sheets, heavier woven throws and blankets, and a soft wool or velvet duvet cover will keep you much warmer while you sleep. If your bedroom stays on the chilly side, invest in an electric blanket with automatic controls and safety features.

5. Soften Your Lighting
   During winter months, you can create a warm, relaxing atmosphere at home by simply softening your lighting. You don't need an electrician—just replace your light bulbs with soft white or warm white LED bulbs, add new linen or paper lampshades with metallic linings, hang sconces that direct light against the wall, and light some candles. All of these lighting tips create a softer, diffused light with a cozy glow.

Are you thinking about moving to Stark or Summit County? Contact us about available homes that may be the perfect fit for your lifestyle.

The first utility bill in a new home can mean an unpleasant surprise for the unsuspecting homeowner. Not only is the cost higher in a house than in an apartment, but energy costs are soaring across the globe. Fortunately, you can take measures to lower your utility bills, and our real estate agents would like to share them with you.

1. Seal it up!
   You would be amazed at how much cold air seeps in through tiny openings around the house. Start first with weather stripping around doors and windows. This low-cost process will save you a lot of money over time. But don't stop there. Check for gaps anywhere two materials meet, such as where siding meets the foundation, a chimney, or the roof. Pick up exterior-grade caulking from your favorite home improvement store and apply it wherever such gaps appear. Install foam gaskets behind light switches. 
   
   
2. Install a smart thermostat
   You may find that many of our North Canton homes for sale are already equipped with this modern convenience, but if not, you would be doing yourself a big favor by installing one. You can pre-program your energy consumption based on your schedule. That can save you as much as 35% on your bill. But you can do far more than that. You can communicate with your thermostat via an app on your phone to keep utility use to a minimum when you are out of town, adjusting the house to an appropriate temperature just before you return. 
   
   
3. Lower the temperature on your water heater
   Most manufacturers set the thermostat to about 160 degrees, but you don't need it to be more than 120. If your water heater is an older model, you may need to flush the mineral buildup from the tank. It's a simple process that can save you a lot. Turn off the water and power. Let the unit cool. Attach a hose to the bottom of the unit leading water to the outside. Open the drain valve and turn the water back on to flush. When the water runs clear, reverse the process. Be sure to close the drain valve securely before removing the hose and turning the water back on. 
   
   
4. Maintain your HVAC unit
   Make sure the area surrounding your unit is clean and free from debris. Cut any branches or plant growth that could encroach upon the unit. Change your air filters every three months. After turning off the power, remove the unit's cover and vacuum out dust, cleaning coils and fins thoroughly. Schedule professional maintenance annually, and if you experience a particularly difficult season weather-wise, consider a check-up between seasons. Replacing an aging HVAC unit is expensive, but this may be an important issue to address if your utility bills are excessive. 
   
   
5. Choose the best energy plan for you
   Akron homes for sale offer the buyer a choice between energy suppliers. Talk to your agent to get a list of options. Then call each to discuss their energy plans before you make a selection. Each supplier may offer multiple plans. Pick the one best suited to your lifestyle to obtain the lowest price available.
   
   
6. Don't forget the tips your parents taught you
   Dress appropriately for the temperature and keep doors and windows closed. Turn off the light when you leave the room and unplug energy thieves when you turn them off. Some electronics are actually on stand-by for quick start-up. 

When you're ready to tour some of the most beautiful houses in Ohio, contact us. We will be happy to help you find the perfect new home for you. 

While it's true that the housing market has cooled somewhat, there is still time to take advantage of the increased value of your home if you plan to sell. But before you set an asking price, our real estate agents want to help you maximize your profits by considering the hidden costs associated with the sale. Here are a few expenses they consider to be some of the most critical:

• Identify problems that could derail the sale.
  A pre-inspection will help you make any necessary repairs before the house is on the market. You can expect to spend a few hundred dollars for a professional inspection, but you won't need to worry about surprises that could delay or prevent closing the sale.
  
  
• Make necessary repairs.
  Lenders will only approve a loan if the property is a sound investment, which means they expect it to be in good repair. You should make most repairs before you attempt to sell the home. Sometimes the cost can be split between the buyer and seller. They will negotiate a pre-determined amount, and either can back out of the deal if cost estimates exceed that amount. 
  
  
• Verify property lines.
  Newer residential developments generally have definitive property lines, but many North Canton homes for sale are more than 40 years old, and boundaries may be questionable. You may need to pay for the property to be surveyed to assure the lender and buyer that the property lines are accurate. This service can cost anywhere from about $250 to $1,000, depending upon the size and shape of the parcel. 
  
  
• Consider possible concessions.
  Potential buyers frequently request that certain items be included in the sales price. Besides appliances, some Akron homes for sale have furnishings or unique items that the buyer feels add to their love of the house. The buyer may ask that the seller pay a portion of the closing costs. These are all open to negotiation, and it will be your option to agree or not. 
  
  
• Estimate closing costs.
  Several fees will be split between the buyer and seller at closing. These include loan processing fees, title insurance costs, property tax, and recording fees. The seller's portion will be deducted from the proceeds when the sale closes. 
  
  
• Cost of vacancy
  If the house is unoccupied while on the market, you must maintain the property in good order, from mowing the lawn to post-weather cleanup. You may also benefit by purchasing a special insurance policy for a vacant house that will protect you from the cost of any vandalism while the house is empty. 
  
  
• Pay off the existing mortgage.
  Your lender will work with your real estate agent and the closing company to provide an accurate pay-off amount so that when you receive the sale's proceeds, your mortgage balance will already be deducted. Your agent will provide you with an estimate of the total amount you will receive. 

As you can see, your real estate agent will play an important role in helping you manage the sale and guiding you through the process. Contact us today to find an experienced professional that you can trust.

As the leaves begin to turn and the days get colder, it's time to get your home ready for the harsh winter months. If you've recently bought a house, you may be surprised by the amount and intensity of home maintenance activities. Homeownership is a huge investment that requires regular maintenance and care. That said, it can feel like a daunting chore, especially if you're a first-time homebuyer.

As summer draws to a close, here's an end-of-summer homeowner maintenance checklist from our real estate agents that can help you better protect your investment.

Inside Your Home

• Inspect the Air Conditioning
  Check and replace air filters as necessary. Inspect your vents, dryer vents, and baseboard heaters for any built-up dust and clean them. Make sure your thermostat is in tip-top shape. Turn up the heat to ensure your furnace is working properly.
  
  If you have central air, the beginning of autumn is a great time to get your HVAC system serviced. A clean system will be more energy efficient. Moreover, a professional can catch and fix problems when they're still minor, helping you avoid a costly emergency repair down the road.
  
  
• Check Windows and Doors
  Check any openings for drafts and caulk where necessary, as drafts can increase your heating bill by increasing your HVAC system's workload. It may also be a good idea to install storm windows and doors to keep the heat in and the cold out.
  
  
• Home Upgrades and Renovation Projects
  Thinking of adding your home to the North Canton homes for sale listing? The beginning of fall is a great time to get started on home upgrades. The temperature is usually moderate, giving you the freedom to update the bathroom or knock down a wall or two.
  
  
• Touch Up the Paint
  Speaking of home upgrades, there's no better time to give your walls a fresh coat of paint than at the beginning of fall. Temperatures are cooler, which means the paint won't dry too fast like it would during the height of summer. Moreover, fall is warm enough that you can open your windows for longer to bring in fresh air.

Outside the House

• Clean Your Gutters
  Here's a task you should perform ever so often. Removing leaves, twigs, and brambles from your spouting means you won't have to deal with falling icicles come winter.
  
  
• Repair Driveways and Walkways
  Winter rain and snow can cause the cracks in your driveway to widen and deepen. That's why filling any cracks during fall is important to prevent them from eroding any further.
  
  
• Inspect Your Roof and Soffits
  You can probably get away with a visual inspection of your roof if it's just a few years old. However, it's crucial to perform an integrity test once a year. Check your roof for soft spots, replace loose shingles, and maybe get a professional installer to take a look. Any discoloration in your soffits or stains on your ceiling could indicate a leak.

Are You Ready to Buy a House?

It's true that anyone can shop for a house. But it can be an incredibly stressful experience. Experienced real estate agents can match you with the perfect property much faster, taking some of the hassle and stress off your shoulders. Contact us to get a look at our Akron homes for sale.

Fall brings cooler temperatures with a crisp feel to the air, and with the hustle and bustle of school starting back, it's the perfect time to have some family fun on the weekends. Several farms and orchards around Stark county offer loads of activities for the whole family, making them a great place to visit for the day or afternoon.

Our real estate agents recommend checking out the following popular destinations for fall family fun in the area.

1. Maize Valley - 6193 Edison St. NE, Hartville, OH 44632
   Maize Valley is a popular destination for Ohio families seeking fall fun since it offers so much to do. In addition to navigating through an 8-acre corn maze, your family can play trivia with questions hidden throughout the maze. The younger kids can also take an animal train ride, and you can gather the whole family for an old-fashioned wagon ride. Other fun activities include pumpkin cannon demonstrations, a pumpkin jump pad, goat-a-palooza animal area, straw bale mountain, push carts, pedal trikes, Farmagination village, and more. And for a few extra dollars, you can try your luck at finding a sparkling treasure at the gem mine. Maize Valley is just around the corner from Hartville homes for sale.
   
   
2. Kingsway Pumpkin Farm - 1555 Andrews St. NE, Hartville, OH 44632
   If you're looking for a day or afternoon of family-friendly fall fun, head to Kingsway Pumpkin Farm. A general admission ticket gives you access to activities, including the 8-acre corn maze with a butterfly design. You'll also be able to meet farm animals, play in a corn box and straw tunnel, and more. If you're looking for pumpkins to add to your fall decor, take a wagon ride to the patch and pick your pumpkins, which are sold by weight. Make sure to bring your phone or camera along to take photos since you'll find plenty of displays and photo props hand-painted by the owner to create great backdrops.
   
   
3. Nickajack Farms - 2955 Manchester Ave. NW, North Lawrence, OH 44666
   Nickajack Farms has been holding its Pumpkin Days festival for nearly 20 years, adding more activities and games each year. In addition to a corn maze, other activities include taking wagon rides, interacting with barnyard animals, zooming down a 30-foot slide, shooting paintballs at targets, blasting corn from cannons, bowling with pumpkins, and digging in a corn crib filled with 10,000 pounds of corn. You can also take a wagon ride to the pick-your-own pumpkin patch or choose some gourds and squash. Grab some bundled Indian corn and corn stalks to complete your fall look.
   
   
4. Arrowhead Orchard - 11724 Lisbon St. SE, Paris, OH 44669
   Established in 1932, Arrowhead Orchard has grown from a hand-planted orchard to include plenty of fall activities along with crops. Take the kids to tackle the corn maze or take a walk through beautiful sunflowers. You'll all enjoy unlimited hayrides, which could make for a welcome respite after more active pursuits like slides, a zip line, hay mountain, an apple cannon, an obstacle course, tree climb, and more. You can also pick your own pumpkin or cut your own beautiful sunflower bouquet to take home.

Contact us if you love Stark County as much as we do. For nearly 50 years, we've helped customers find homes in the area and would love to help you find one as well! 

How big should your down payment be?

When home prices rise, so do the down payments required to purchase those homes. This has long posed a roadblock for many would-be first-time homebuyers. But it doesn't have to be the case.

Our real estate agents share everything you need to know about making a down payment on a home.

Down Payments: How They Work, How Much to Pay

A down payment is simply the part of the home's purchase price you pay upfront. It might be the biggest check you ever write in your life, and the amount you pay could impact your finances for years, if not decades.

Contrary to conventional wisdom, you don't have to put 20 percent down on a house. There's no law or rule for a universal minimum down payment. The amount you should put down is a personal decision that depends on what's best for your finances. Lenders require homebuyers to make a down payment for most mortgages. For instance, the amount is usually 3% of the home's price for conventional mortgages.

On that note, most lenders will require a down payment of 20 percent to avoid paying private mortgage insurance (PMI)—in case you're wondering where the 20 percent number comes from. Far from most types of insurance, this legally binding document protects the lender's vested interest in the home, not the homeowner.

When you make a down payment of less than 20 percent, your mortgage loan-to-value (LTV) ratio is over 80 percent. As such, you present a higher risk profile to the lender, which necessitates purchasing private mortgage insurance to offset this risk. PMI will increase your monthly mortgage costs until you have accumulated enough equity in the home that the lender no longer considers you high risk. So, there are advantages to making a larger down payment.

Another advantage is lower interest rates. A solid down payment may signify that you're less likely to default on your loan, which may prompt lenders to reduce your mortgage interest rate. Even saving a fraction of a percent on your interest rate could save you thousands of dollars over the life of your loan. Still, your overall interest will depend on factors other than your down payment, such as credit scores, home price, and loan term.

Down Payment Requirements by Loan Type

As mentioned, down payment requirements vary depending on the type of mortgage you qualify for. For instance, if you qualify for government loans, your down payment may be as low as zero.

There are several options for a mortgage with no or low down payment:

1. Veterans Affairs (VA) Loans
   The Department of Veterans Affairs partially guarantees these loans. VA loans typically have low down payment requirements, are more flexible in terms of credit score, and carry lower interest rates than conventional mortgage products. However, you must be a veteran, active-duty service member, member of the National Guard, reserve, or an eligible surviving spouse of a veteran to qualify.
   
   
2. FHA Loans
   Insured by the Federal Housing Association, these loans require a lower minimum down payment than many conventional loans. Many first-time buyers may find FHA loans the more affordable mortgage option.
   
   
3. USDA Loans
   The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) provides zero-down homeownership opportunities to low- and moderate-income Americans. However, you must live or plan to live in an eligible rural area to qualify.

It's important to weigh your mortgage options before committing to a down payment amount. Even though a 20 percent down payment is ideal, you shouldn't fixate on it. The right amount depends on numerous factors, including how much you can comfortably afford. You don't want your down payment to be so large that it leaves you with too little savings.

Ready to Purchase Your First Home?

Our agents have the expertise and years of experience to guide you through the process. Contact us today to view North Canton homes for sale.

While the hot seller's market of the last few months has begun to cool down, there are still many people out there looking for North Canton homes for sale or Akron homes for sale. Today's Ohio homeowners easily benefit from the great interest in the local area and meet qualified buyers.

Our real estate agents know you want to get the most value for your home and finish the sales process as quickly as possible. In fact, it's usually for the best when the sale is complete within 30 days. After the 60-day mark, buyers may wonder if something is wrong with the home.

At 90 days, most homes need to be re-listed, which can add months to your timeline.

How can you avoid these issues? To get the results you want, it's crucial not to go it alone.

Many homeowners have been exploring "FSBO" – for sale by owner, the name given to selling without a real estate agent. They may feel that they'll make more money without paying a commission, but the situation is a little more complex than it looks at first.

Selling without an agent can cost you both time and money. On the other hand, the insights of an experienced agent help you maximize your returns, no matter what the housing market looks like.

Let's dive deeper and see how sellers like you benefit from working with an agent:

• An Agent Attracts More Offers for Your Home
  One of your agent's biggest roles is managing your home's marketing. Agents work hard to publicize your home and keep you in the loop about what's been done on your behalf. They'll lead in developing your listing, open house events, virtual tours, staging, and much more.
  
  
• An Agent Is Your Interface to Buyers
  Any time a home goes on sale, some people will only show up out of curiosity. Your agent helps separate serious and qualified buyers from the rest,  saving dozens of hours you would otherwise spend having conversations that might not go anywhere.
  
  
• An Agent Helps You Price Your Home to Sell
  For the best results, pricing any home needs to be done scientifically. A "priced-to-sell" home is aligned with recent sales of similar homes in the same area. Your agent will do all the research to find a price point that meets your needs while still being enticing enough to draw people to the property.
  
  
• An Agent Helps You Avoid Legal Liabilities
  One detail many buyers and sellers alike aren't aware of is the way an agent protects you from serious paperwork errors. A small oversight in how you describe your home or the forms required for closing can leave you vulnerable to fines, legal problems, and much more.
  
  
• An Agent Helps You Negotiate
  A "bidding war" is the dream scenario for many sellers—it means you have plenty of buyers engaged and interested. But that doesn't mean you simply sit back and watch the sparks fly. Whether you need to consider multiple bids or make a counter-offer, an agent's expertise is invaluable.
  
  
• An Agent Supports You in Informed Decision-Making
  During the selling process, emotions can run high for parties on both sides of the transaction. Your real estate agent is an ally who brings a useful outside perspective to every major question. This has helped countless sellers throughout Ohio make decisions they feel truly confident about.

Contact us at DeHoff Realtors to learn more about your selling opportunities.

Has there ever been a more perfect pair than wine and cheese? Our real estate agents don't think so. North Canton's lush fields and semi-rural layout make it one of the best areas for growing grapes in Ohio, and many top-tier wineries have sprung up in response to these conditions. Get your wine and cheese fix at any of these five spots around North Canton and experience a treat you'll never forget. 

• Maize Valley Winery – 6193 Edison Street NE (St. Rt. 619), Hartville, OH 44632
  Maize Valley Winery is located near our Hartville homes for sale and has been owned and operated by the same family since the 1960s. The establishment produces a wide variety of delectable red and white wines and a few fruit wines made from apples, berries, and other less conventional ingredients. These wines pair perfectly with the Amish meats and cheeses available at their on-site deli.
  
  If you'd prefer to sample your cheese at their full-service restaurant, you can order their Artichoke Asiago Dip alongside a glass of wine. You can also get your cheese fix from cheese-heavy sandwiches like the Maize Valley Melt, a mouthwatering sandwich made from grilled sourdough bread piled high with ham and provolone.
  
  
• 1875 Winery & Restaurant – 109 State Route 44 Hartville, OH 44632
  Named for the year in which the barn that houses the business was built, the 1875 Winery & Restaurant prides itself on handcrafted, small-batch wines. From the High and Tight dry rose to the Down N Dirty sweet red, there's a wine here to suit everyone's tastes. 
  
  Sip your wine in their restaurant alongside one of their charcuterie boards, delightful creations made from an assortment of cheese, sausage, crackers, and bruschetta. Boards can be made gluten-free upon request. More adventurous diners can also try the Fried Cheese Skewers, deliciously savory nuggets served with spicy aioli sauce for dipping. 
  
  
• Forever Craft Urban Winery – 2640 Easton Street NE, Canton, OH 44721
  The Forever Craft Urban Winery is proof that you don't need acres of land to make excellent wine. This small establishment offers everything from a classic dry red merlot to Summer Picnic, a sweet strawberry watermelon white shiraz, all made in-house in small batches. Take a seat at the bar and try one or two of their lovingly crafted creations.
  
  When you're ready to eat, you can order a mouthwatering charcuterie board to nibble on. These boards come in different sizes to serve anywhere from two to 10 people, so you can enjoy yours with a group if you like. Each board comes brimming with an assortment of meats, cheese, fruits, crackers, nuts, and even chocolates for your snacking pleasure.
  
  
• The Crush House at Gervasi Vineyard – 1700 55th Street NE, Canton, OH 44721
  The Gervasi Vineyard is a 55-acre estate near our Canton homes for sale serving red and white wines made from grapes harvested right there in the fields. Each of their fresh, crisp wines is carefully crafted to bring out the rich flavors of these delicate fruits.
  
  At the vineyard's restaurant, The Crush House, you can sample some of these wines while enjoying a premium Italian Meat and Cheese Plate. Those in the mood for something lighter might enjoy their Whipped Lemon Feta Spread on gourmet crackers. For a special treat, try their Provolone Carrozza, an indulgent fried cheese sandwich considered one of the restaurant's specialties. 
  
  
• Dragonfly Winery – 215 Market Street W, Canal Fulton, OH 44614
  The Dragonfly Winery is a quaint establishment near our Canal Fulton homes for sale, serving various handcrafted drinks and aperitifs. Their selection of artisan wines includes boldly named options like Rivers' Edge, Sunflower Sunset Peach Apricot, and Twisted Teacup. 
  
  You can choose from several cheese-based dishes for the cheese part of your wine-and-cheese treat. In addition to their Cheese and Cracker Plates and Meat and Cheese Plates, the restaurant also serves delectable cheese dips that are perfect for savoring. Choose from the Blueberry and Goat Cheese Dip, the Honey Apricot Goat Cheese Spread, or the Caramel Apple Cream Cheese Spread, and enjoy every bite. 

North Canton's delicious wine and cheese options aren't the only thing to love about this place. Contact us today for more information on our North Canton homes for sale and learn how easy it is to settle down in this scenic Ohio area.

The Akron Zoo has been a staple of family fun near Akron homes for sale for decades, with significant expansion since the early 2000s leading to new exhibits, rides for kids, special events, and amenities for visitors to enjoy. Summer is the perfect time to experience a fun, educational family outing to the Akron Zoo, with a busy schedule of special events, summer camps for kids, and many animals to see. Our real estate agents have the key information to help you plan your next family day at the Akron Zoo.

• Get to Know the Animals
  Did you know that the number of animals under the care of the Akron Zoo has increased by 200 percent over the last 15 years? Today, the zoo is home to a diverse collection of animals from both land and sea. The seven categories of animals living at the zoo include mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, invertebrates, and even carnivorous plants. There are many rare species to see here, like the Red Panda, Bald Eagle, Sumatran Tiger, Galapagos Tortoise, Giant Pacific Octopus, and South American Sea Nettle, to name just a few.
  
  
• Animal Habitats and Exhibits
  All of the animals at the Akron Zoo are cared for in habitats that mimic what they experience in nature. There are 10 distinct habitats to explore, including the Pride of Africa, Wild Asia, Curious Creatures, Legends of the Wild, Penguin Point, Grizzly Ridge, Komodo Kingdom, and Wild Prairie. Many of the zoo's birds are housed within the large Aviary, while plants and animals can be found within the Lehner Family Zoo Gardens.
  
  
• Unique Experiences at the Akron Zoo
  For families who want a behind-the-scenes look at the Akron Zoo, some great unique experiences are available this summer. The Rise and Shine Safari, offered on mornings from Friday through Monday, is a tour with experienced staff members that allows you to explore the zoo before it opens to the public. You'll learn all about the habitats, discover how the animals are cared for, and participate in unique, interactive experiences with the animals.
  
  The Get Closer Experience is another great option for an up-close experience with creatures like the Galapagos Turtle, goats, and Animal Ambassadors. Get Closer Experiences also include one-on-one time with a zookeeper. All experiences must be scheduled at least two weeks in advance, so plan ahead.
  
  
• Special Events and Camps for Summer Fun
  Summer is a busy time for special events at the zoo, with events for families and some events for adults 21 and older. Popular events include Princess & Pirate Day, Members' Nights, Summer Safari, and Paws & Reflect: Yoga for Conservation. Kids aged 6 through 16 can also be enrolled in the summer ZooCamp, where they'll learn about the zoo, the habitats, and the animals living there through fun, hands-on experiences.
  
  
• Tickets, Parking, and What to Know Before You Visit
  The Akron Zoo is open daily April 1 through October 31 from 10:00 am through 5:00 pm, with limited hours in the winter. Admission is $14 for adults, $12 for seniors, and $11 for kids, with online purchasing available. Parking costs $5 per vehicle when purchased on-site or $3 if you purchase parking online before visiting.

When you're ready to buy or sell your next home near the great family attractions of Akron, our team is here to help. Contact us for assistance with all of your real estate needs in the Akron area.

Can you believe that the Fourth of July is already around the corner? As always, Ohio communities will be pulling out all the stops to celebrate this special day with community events that the whole family can enjoy. Both Akron and North Canton have some holiday events that you won't want to miss. Our real estate agents have all of the details on where to celebrate the Fourth of July in your favorite Ohio communities.

• North Canton Jaycees July Fourth Parade – 605 Fair Oaks Ave. SW., North Canton, OH 44720
  The North Canton Jaycees July Fourth Parade is always a local favorite near North Canton homes for sale, providing the perfect event to kick off your celebration of the big day. You can see the parade on 7th Street, Main, and Harmon starting at 10:30 AM, or catch the end of the parade at North Canton Middle School at the address listed above. The parade features a wide variety of entertainment, from classic cars to dance teams, with an easy sign-up process if you'd like to join the parade with your own local group.
  
  
• North Canton YMCA July 4th Race – 200 S. Main St., North Canton, OH 44720
  Perhaps you'd like to fit in a great workout before digging into all of the goodies at a Fourth of July barbecue and have a great time in the process. This year marks the 44th annual edition of the North Canton YMCA July 4th Race, featuring four great races packed into one morning. The fun starts with the 100-yard Firecracker Dash for young children, followed by the 2-mile run for all ages. The 5-mile wheelchair and 5-mile races kick start shortly after, with routes that wind through North Canton.
  
  
• Akron RubberDucks – 300 S. Main St., Akron, OH 44308
  Summer and baseball go hand-in-hand, so why not celebrate the Fourth of July with a trip to the ballpark? The Akron RubberDucks provide affordable family entertainment near Akron homes for sale all summer long, and the Fourth of July is always one of the biggest nights of the season. Start things off by watching the RubberDucks go toe to toe with the Altoona Curve, and be sure to stick around after the game. Once the final pitch has been thrown, the biggest fireworks show of the year will light up the sky above Canal Park.
  
  
• Rib, White and Blue Festival – 200 S. Main St., Akron, OH 44308
  Start your celebration early with a trip to the Rib, White and Blue Festival in downtown Akron, which kicks off on Friday, July 1 and runs straight through the Fourth of July. Each day of the festival runs from morning through late evening, with great food, live entertainment, and free admission. Each night is highlighted by a free, live concert with tribute bands playing the hits from some of your favorite classic rock artists, including Bruce Springsteen, Queen, and Journey.
  
  
• Akron Fireworks – 200 S. Main St., Akron, OH 44308
  Want to see fireworks but can't make it out to the RubberDucks game? The Akron Fireworks show will be held at the same location as the Rib, White and Blue Festival, starting at 9:45 PM on the Fourth of July. Stake out your spot early for the best views, and get ready for a spectacular show.

When you're ready to buy or sell your next home in these great communities, our team is here to help. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the North Canton and Akron areas.

National Chocolate Ice Cream Day is June 7th, and for those of us with a sweet tooth, we can't wait! There are so many wonderful places to grab a delicious cone, sundae, or milkshake in Stark and Summit counties that it's impossible to choose just one. Instead, our real estate agents have put together a list of six favorites.

1. Almost Heaven Ice Cream — 6590 Middlebranch Ave. NE, Canton, OH 44721
   With award-winning chocolate, butter pecan, strawberry, and vanilla ice cream, this lovely little shop near Canton homes for sale is a must-visit. Almost Heaven Ice Cream features more than two dozen ice cream flavors along with sundaes, banana splits, milkshakes, ice cream sandwiches, and so much more. If you want something extra special, order one of their dippy twisters, made with either dairy-free vanilla ice cream or frozen yogurt vanilla mixed with your choice of delicious fruit.
   
   
2. Handel's Homemade Ice Cream — 2191 E. Maple St., North Canton, OH 44720 / 7212 Fulton Dr. NW, Canton, OH 44718
   Baskin Robbins stands aside because your 32 flavors are nothing compared to Handel's Homemade Ice Cream. This popular shop near North Canton homes for sale has been around since 1945 and features more than 100 ice cream flavors, which means there's always something for every person to enjoy. Their high level of quality began with Alice Handel's homemade ice cream that she made using fresh fruit from her backyard garden, and that commitment continues to this day.
   
   
3. Cherry Street Creamery — 136 Cherry St. W, Canal Fulton, OH 44614
   The family-owned Cherry Street Creamery has tons of ice cream flavors, milkshakes, sweet treats, and various food items. Every Monday, they kick off the week by posting a special, freshly made "mustard" flavor on their Facebook page. This wonderful shop near many Canal Fulton homes for sale is open from mid-March to October each year, so be sure to get down there when you get a chance and enjoy one of their tasty offerings while you can.
   
   
4. Mak's Munchies N More — 7232 Portage St. NW, Massillon, OH 44646
   This deli and ice cream shop close to Massillon homes for sale is the perfect place for family and friends to find everything they need for a wonderful lunch or quick snack. In addition to several different flavors of ice cream - including chocolate, of course - you'll find grilled cheese sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs, salads, and many other wonderful treats. Stop by Mak's Munchies N More for a quick bite, and you'll want to return time and time again.
   
   
5. Papa Roni's Pizza & Ice Cream — 68 W. State St., Barberton, OH 44203
   Although it's only been around for a little over 10 years, Papa Roni's Pizza & Ice Cream has made a huge impact in the area. In addition to chocolate, chewy chocolate, chocolate chip cookie dough, and mint chocolate chip, you'll find a variety of ice cream flavors, including their Superman special, a blend of lemon, cherry, and blue raspberry. Pick up a pizza and ice cream for a perfect lunch or dinner.
   
   
6. Taggart's Ice Cream — 1401 Fulton Rd. NW, Canton, OH 44703
   It's hard to believe that this Canton landmark has been around since 1926, but ask any resident and they probably have a story about visiting there as a youngster. Taggart's Ice Cream features wrought-iron ice cream parlor chairs, high-backed booths, and wood/tile floors that harken back to the classic soda fountain days. Not only will you get a taste of nostalgia, but you can dig into burgers, hot dogs, soups, chicken strips, and several other food favorites.

Contact us to view homes for sale in Stark and Summit counties. We can help you find your new dream home!

Color is the easiest way to inject your personality into any North Canton home for sale. Interior painting can be a messy project, but there are some tricks get the job done quicker and cleaner. Explore the top interior painting tips from our real estate agents below.

• Take Time to Pick Your Colors
  You have limitless color choices to choose from for your project. Lighter options make rooms feel spacious and airy, while bolder hues re-energize the décor. You can mix bold and lighter colors to create contrast and highlight accent pieces, art, and other accessories.
  
  Keep in mind that interior colors look different at various times of the day as natural and artificial lighting changes. So, prop poster boards with different colors choices against your walls to pick the right hues.
  
  
• Buy High-Quality Painting Supplies
  High-quality roller covers and brushes offer excellent coverage, while good painter's tape is your best bet in sealing out drips and blurs. If you use cheap brushes, you will likely see bristles falling into the paint, and the result will look shoddy. High-quality paint is also vital for a smooth finish.
  
  
• Prep Work Is Essential
  Before you paint a room, remove any obstructions that prevent you from moving around freely. For example, move large living room furniture to the center and protect them with drop cloths. Empty each room you will be painting as much as possible for an easier process.
  
  The next step is removing any hardware from the walls, such as curtain rods, switch plates, outlet covers, pictures, and hooks for towels. Then, thoroughly clean the walls as paint easily peels off dirty and oily surfaces. Fill in cracks and holes and sand the surface to create a smooth working area.
  
  
• Apply Primer
  You get a blotchy finish if you paint directly over the patched sections. This occurs because the joint compound used to fill in holes on the walls absorbs the paint's moisture, resulting in a dull and flat look. Also, these spots appear significantly different from the rest of the wall.
  
  So, prime the wall to get a smooth finish. Most professionals tint white primer with a little gray hue or the finish paint color. Using tinted primer results in a more vibrant finish, and you will likely need fewer coats to get the desired look.
  
  
• Combine Paint Gallons
  Disparities in color occur from one can to the next, and the difference may be apparent if you open a new container as you paint a wall. So, estimate the quantity of paint you require and pour it into a 5-gallon bucket. Then, stir the entire batch to ensure uniformity.
  
  
• Paint the Trim, Ceiling, and Walls in Order
  Taping off the trim is easier than taping off the wall, so professionals start painting the trim and then the ceiling. Don't worry about perfection as you paint the trim, as you can cover spilled paint when you paint the walls. Also, sand the trim between coats to get a smooth texture.
  
  You may be tempted to cut in all the room corners before going back to roll the paint for an easier time. However, this method leads to a blotchy finish. Professionals achieve a seamless finish in Akron homes for sale by cutting in one wall and quickly rolling on the paint to prevent the cut-in sections from drying out.
  
  
• Protect the Floor With Canvas Drop Cloths
  Old bed sheets and plastic drop cloths do little to prevent paint splatters from seeping into the floor. Instead, use thick canvas drop cloths as they stay in place and are sufficiently durable to last a lifetime. Clean spills with cloth rags and paper towels as soon as they occur.

Your new home is a color away from being the perfect haven. Contact us today to explore our real estate services.

As the weather warms up, it's the perfect time to head out on a family bike ride. Stark County has plenty of excellent parks with trails that cover forested areas, urban locations, and suburban sites.

Our real estate agents recommend the following trails in Stark County when you're ready to spend part of your day taking a family bike ride in area parks.

• Quail Hollow Park - 13480 Congress Lake Ave., Hartville, OH 44632
  Quail Hollow Park has over 700 acres of rolling meadows, marshes, and wooded areas, plus a 40-room house that's available for tours when you're ready to take a break from biking. Located near Hartville homes for sale, it's a popular destination for mountain bikers since it has a 3.3-mile mountain bike loop trail that's suitable for beginning or intermediate riders. It's a nicely wooded trail with very little slope or rocks and is marked with arrows to show you which direction to go.
  
  
• Stark Electric Railway Trail - Mahoning Road NE, Canton, OH 44705
  If you'd like a ride on an urban trail, head to the Stark Electric Railway Trail, which follows the route of the former rail line of the same name. The line ran from 1902 to 1939, linking Canton and Salem via Louisville, Alliance, and Sebring before closing due to the growing popularity of buses, which were cheaper to operate. The trail, which is located near Canton homes for sale, is a little over one mile in length and is lined with ginkgo, honey locust, and other varieties of trees.
  
  
• Congressman Ralph Regula Towpath Trail Park - 7975 Erie Ave. NW, Canal Fulton 44614
  With 14 trailheads, the Congressman Ralph Regula Towpath Trail Park, located just around the corner from Canal Fulton homes for sale, has plenty of spots where you can start a family bike ride. The entire trail is 26 miles long and is on flat terrain, with trees providing plenty of shade. The trail follows the historic route of the Ohio & Erie Canal, and you'll be able to still see the canal bed visible in many areas. If you bike in the Canal Fulton area, you'll find that the canal has been preserved, and you can ride a replica canal boat during the spring and summer.
  
  
• Pioneer Trail - 2600 Harvard Ave. NW, Canton, OH 44709 
  Pioneer Trail is a short 1.34-mile route that connects Market Avenue to Cleveland Avenue near Canton homes for sale. It has several inclines and declines, as well as a surface of crushed limestone. Part of the trail takes you through Harvard Park and its grassy fields and then Weis Park, which has volleyball and shuffleboard courts if you'd like to take time out to play.
  
  
• Hoover Trail - Hoover Community Recreational Complex, 1325 E. Maple St., North Canton, OH 44720
  A suburban trail that's almost 5.5 miles long and situated near North Canton homes for sale, Hoover Trail connects Washington Square, Walsh University's Hoover Park, North Canton's baseball fields, Hoover High School, and the Hoover District. It's part of the planned Ohio to Erie Trail, a route intended to span from Cleveland to Cincinnati. You may be able to spot wildlife such as hawks and other types of birds, foxes, groundhogs, and more. You'll also see wildflower and berry bushes along the way. One of the trail's interesting features is a bridge for biking and walking that spans over the Old 3C Highway.

Contact us if you'd like to see homes for sale in Stark County. Many are close to beautiful parks and trails, and we'd love to help you find the best one for you. 

Spring is here and spending time outdoors tops the list of things to do. Some people look forward to hiking their favorite trails or picnics in the park, while others enjoy relaxing in their backyard. If you prefer the comforts of home, our real estate agents recommend sprucing up your backyard with some beautiful patio plants.

Backyard patios and decks are ideal for potted plants. In Akron homes for sale, you can change out flowering plants to extend spring blooms well into the fall season. When temperatures start to drop, replace blooms with hardy greenery that will survive winter weather. To create a beautiful patio year-round, all you need is the right plants and decorative containers.

Choosing the Right Patio Plants

When choosing patio plants, consider how much maintenance they require. Some plants require daily watering, regular trimming, and deadheading of spent flowers to encourage more blooms. Before investing in plants, make sure they are suited to your gardening needs. Some easy-care patio plants to consider include:

• Geraniums – These cheerful annuals come in a variety of vibrant colors that will add beauty to your patio. Geraniums last all summer and into early fall, even if you forget to water them for several days.

• Lantana – This flower can be invasive in the garden, but it's easy to contain in pots. Lantana is a hardy plant that's hard to kill. It grows well in the sun and produces blooms with pretty multicolored flowers.

• Marigolds – A big pot of marigolds will add color to your patio. Marigolds are easy to maintain and repel insects that may get on other plants, but they require deadheading to produce new blooms.

• Ferns – In North Canton homes for sale with shady backyards, ferns are a great choice since they thrive in the shade. You'll find a variety of ferns that range in size, texture, and color for stunning visual interest.

• Caladiums – Another shade lover, these plants produce colorful heart-shaped leaves. As tubers, they spread nicely and are mostly carefree. They don't have showy flowers but definitely brighten up shady spots.

• Herbs – If you have a sunny patio, herbs planted in pots will thrive. Basil, lavender, mint, oregano, rosemary, sage, and thyme grow well with sun and regular watering. Enjoy wonderful smells and use the herbs in your kitchen.

• Vines – Potato vine (jasmine nightshade) is an easy vine to grow without much maintenance. It's often used as a patio plant because it produces pretty little white or purple flowers that add soft, relaxing color to an outdoor setting.

Choosing Containers

For healthy patio plants, it's important to choose the right size containers with adequate drainage. According to garden experts, plants in pots dry out more quickly, so they need adequate water and good potting soil. Water should be checked daily, and potting soil should be good quality organic potting soil with an organic compost mixed into the soil.

When purchasing containers, make sure pots have ample room for plant growth. Consider the container's size and height on your patio so you don't block views of the backyard. Large pots are good for marking patio boundaries, delineating different patio areas, and providing privacy, but they are hard to move around. Small decorative pots with bright colors and interesting textures make good accents on patios that need a boost in design appeal, and they're very easy to move around.

If you're thinking about buying or selling a home in Stark and Summit counties, contact us for information on available properties and prices in areas of interest.

If you're treating yourself to lunch out, don't just grab something unhealthy from the drive-thru at a chain restaurant. Take time to refuel at one of North Canton's many eateries that put their own delicious spin on healthy lunches. You'll have plenty of menu options to choose from and will be able to have a healthy, relaxing break before moving on to the rest of your day.

Our real estate agents suggest eating at the following healthy lunch stops around North Canton.

• BAM! Healthy Cuisine - 2185 E. Maple St., North Canton, OH 44718 and 7160 Fulton Dr. NW, Canton, OH 44718
  BAM! Healthy Cuisine aims to combine nutritious with delicious by making everything served as fresh as possible. The lettuce, for example, is grown in Ohio and cut by hand. Nothing is from a bag, and tortillas are made in-house. The restaurant has the salads and power bowls that you might expect to see on a healthy menu, but you'll also find pizza, wraps, and sandwiches that taste great while being made with healthy ingredients. And if you're in the mood for something sweet, grab a guilt-free treat from the cooler.
  
  
• Thatsa Wrapp Shack - 7944 Cleveland Ave. NW, North Canton, OH 44720
  Thatsa Wrapp Shack specializes in inventive wraps and salads prepared fresh in-house daily. They're also known for their specialty housemade chips and desserts. Try the Cherry Almond Wrapp, loaded with grilled chicken, mozzarella, lettuce, red onion, dried cherries, almonds, and balsamic vinaigrette. Or, if you're in the mood for a salad, go for the To The Chopper, which has garbanzo beans, cucumber, red onion, feta, tomato, red pepper, and lemon caper dressing. And if you're a vegetarian, you'll also find several meatless options on the menu.
  
  
• Aladdin's Eatery - 6698 Strip Ave. NW, North Canton, OH 44720
  At Aladdin's Eatery, Lebanese-American foods take center stage. This cuisine, in addition to being flavorful, is quite healthy. Staples of Lebanese food include olive oil, nuts, vegetables, and lean meats, and instead of heavy, unhealthy sauces, herbs and spices are used to enhance the flavor of food. Dishes are free from sulfites and preservatives and fit in well with several different eating plans. Over 40 dishes are vegetarian, 30 are vegan, and 40 are gluten-free, so if you have specific dietary needs, you'll have plenty of dishes to choose from. Start with a delicious appetizer like falafel or hummus before selecting an entree like pita pizzas. And don't forget to treat yourself to a refreshing option from a variety of healthy smoothies, raw juices, and natural herbal teas.
  
  
• Twisted Citrus - 1649 N. Main St., North Canton, OH 44720
  You'll be able to enjoy breakfast and lunch dishes on the menu at Twisted Citrus, a colorfully decorated daytime eatery that, true to its name, serves dishes with a twist. Try a Southwest BBQ Salad for lunch, with your choice of grilled chicken or fried veggie nuggets diced and tossed in BBQ sauce. It's served over a tasty bed of iceberg mix, red peppers, tomatoes, fire-roasted corn, black beans, and diced avocado and topped with the restaurant's housemade jalapeno vinaigrette. You can also build your own chicken sandwich or burger, including a Beyond Burger that's vegan and plant-based.

If you're ready to start looking at North Canton homes for sale, contact us today. Our agents have years of experience and are dedicated to making your real estate transaction a smooth one. 

It's always lovely when schedules line up perfectly. But, the reality is that when it comes to real estate transactions, there's likely to be a slight lag between the day you buy the home and the day you can move in. You may sell your home before you find a new home, may need to wait until the seller can move into their new home, or wait while the renovation company completes any necessary repairs or upgrades. Or, you may want to wait until you find the best deal on a house that fits within your budget. Our real estate agents know there are plenty of reasons you may need to rent a home, and we advise all clients to carefully think over the possibility of living in a short-term rental before moving into their new home.

• Hot Markets May Cool Off
  One of the biggest reasons homeowners sell their homes and rent is that the real estate market is still red hot. While prices for North Canton homes for sale are cooling down and stabilizing, they aren't dropping. Many homeowners who sold their homes made tidy profits and have chosen to invest those profits and rent until housing cools down. The market may cool, and prices could fall in the next couple of years. But rent could go up as rental properties become scarce. This means that any savings gained could easily be lost in the form of increased rental costs.
  
  
• Watch Out for Mortgage Rates
  Inflation is going up, far above anything the country has seen since the early 1980s. This means that the Fed is strongly considering raising interest rates to throw some water on the fire before it burns through everyone's savings. Interest rates will likely rise this year, which means that waiting to buy a home could end up costing you more in the long run.
  
  
• Sellers and Landlords Have the Upper Hand
  It's a seller's market right now, and many homes continue to sell well above the listing price. At the same time, rental inventories are down, and eviction moratoriums have come to an end across most of the country. This means that landlords can command premium prices for rental property. They can also require tenants to sign long-term leases and easily walk away from short-term options. As a result, if you plan to rent, you may end up renting for longer than you want. Thus, if you do intend to keep your eye on Akron homes for sale, we recommend signing a lease that gives you the option of subletting the property so that you can move out and minimize your losses when you find the home you want.

We invite you to contact us to learn more about the best strategy for your specific situation. We're happy to answer your questions and help guide you in the right direction to move into your new home at a time and price that's most convenient for you.

You've just purchased a new home from among North Canton homes for sale, and you're undoubtedly eager to pick out curtains, paint colors, and new furniture. But first, you should be aware of potential problems and how to avoid or at least prepare for them. Our real estate agents share how you can be ready for the following issues.

• Plumbing Problems
  Clogged pipes, burst pipes, and leaky pipes can cause significant damage to your home and property. This is why we strongly recommend a comprehensive plumbing inspection and maintenance visit with a certified plumber before you move in. This creates a thorough assessment of the plumbing and establishes a relationship with a plumber you can call should a plumbing problem emerge down the road.

• Electrical Problems
  If you purchase any of the many older Akron homes for sale, be sure to complete a comprehensive electrical inspection. Wiring and fixtures wear out over time, and you'll want to confirm the systems in your home are in good repair. You will also want to make sure that you have good candles, flashlights, batteries, and better still, a backup power generator for an electrical outage. Generators are ideal because they can ensure your lights, security systems, refrigerator, freezer, etc., continue to operate until the power is restored.

• Fire Hazards
  Fire safety is always a top priority. Ensure that your home has fire alarms in the bedrooms, kitchen, garage, laundry room, and hallways. Additionally, it's a good idea to position an ABC fire extinguisher in each of these areas. Finally, be sure to change your batteries at regular intervals, conduct fire drills with your family, and recharge your fire extinguishers when they expire.

• Roof Problems
  Make sure that you have extra roofing materials, tarps, nails, and a few pieces of plywood handy. Should a storm blow shingles off or a windstorm knock a tree branch through the roof, this will help you temporarily repair the damage until a professional roofing contractor can perform a permanent repair. 

• Furnace Failure/Water Heater Failure
  Your furnace and water heater are the hardest-working appliances in your home. Most furnaces last 12-15 years, while most water heaters last between 10-12 years. Make sure to keep (and change) air filters regularly, stay on top of the manufacturer's maintenance requirements, and it won't hurt to enroll in a maintenance plan provided by a local, trusted HVAC service provider. 

• Security Problems
  Security is a priority you can't ignore. Installing a home security system with remote monitoring capabilities will help you keep an eye on the home while you're away. It's also a good idea to install at least one smart lock on the home so that you can access it via a code or through your smartphone to get inside even if a member of your family loses their key.

• Cold Weather and Pests
  Freezing weather, raccoons, birds, insects, and other pests can infiltrate your home via cracks in masonry, gaps in insulation, or open crawl spaces. Sealing these gaps with caulk, weather stripping, insulation, etc., will protect your home from the weather and from pests eager to enjoy a free meal and a new nest. 

We encourage you to contact us to learn more about the steps we recommend new homeowners take to protect their homes from the most common threats and hazards.  

Planning a wedding is both exciting and a big undertaking. If you're waiting for the perfect time to get started, then we have some good news. March 1 is National Wedding Planning Day! This is a great opportunity to start wedding dress shopping if you're newly engaged. Our real estate agents have some awesome bridal shops to recommend around Stark and Summit counties. 

• Abbot's Bridal: 1280 S. Main St., North Canton, OH 44720
  If you're looking at North Canton homes for sale, then Abbot's Bridal is a convenient place to stop while you're in the area. They are a full-service bridal boutique, offering dresses from several designers, along with alteration services. Shoppers can find dresses in a wide range of prices as well as sizes. Abbot's Bridal requires appointments on Saturdays. They're open for walk-ins on Monday - Friday, although appointments are still recommended for the best service.
  
  
• Elyse's Boutique Bridal & Prom: 767 E. Turkeyfoot Lake Rd., Akron, OH 44319
  Elyse's Boutique Bridal & Prom is a good place to start your dress search if you're looking at Akron homes for sale. They offer a wide range of gowns for immediate purchase, so you don't need to wait months for a dress to be custom-made. They carry sizes 0-18 in-store. Designers include DaVinci Bridal, Mary's Bridal, and Richard Designs. Elyse's Boutique often has discounted sample dresses available, too. They're open Monday - Saturday, and you must schedule an appointment beforehand. 
  
  
• The Flawless Bride: 90 Shiawassee Ave., Fairlawn, OH 44333
  The Flawless Bride is a plus-size bridal boutique offering sizes 16-32+. Many Fairlawn homes for sale are just minutes away, making this a convenient place to stop. Their consultants will help you find a dress that helps you feel beautiful, confident, and 100% yourself. Consultations last about an hour and are available by appointment only. At The Flawless Bride, consultants can also help you find the perfect shoes and accessories. All dresses are made to order and can take 4-6 months to ship from the designer, so plan ahead. 
  
  
• KR Bridal and Tailoring: 2044 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221
  KR Bridal and Tailoring is a modern bridal boutique that also carries mother of the bride dresses, bridesmaid dresses, and less-traditional wedding dresses. If you're looking for something edgy, Bohemian, or truly contemporary, this is the place to go. You can book a Bridal Consultation Appointment online at KR Bridal's website. They offer gowns at a wide range of price points and also in-house alterations. Make sure you stop to look at some Cuyahoga Falls homes for sale when you're in the area, too.
  
  
• David's Bridal: 3265 W. Market St., Suite 296B, Fairlawn, OH 44333
  David's Bridal is a bridal store located on the first floor of the Summit Mall. With various locations across the country, they can offer a wide selection of bridal and bridesmaid dresses at affordable prices. They do alterations in-house, and they have a good selection of cocktail-style and shorter wedding dresses. David's Bridal does allow walk-ins to browse the dress and accessory options, but if you want to try on dresses, you'll need to book an appointment ahead of time. 

You may not get all of your wedding dress shopping done on National Wedding Planning Day, but you can still get out there and get started. Visit some of the shops above, and get a better idea of what you're looking for in a dress. Should you happen to be looking for a home in the area, too, contact us to learn more about our services.

Since ancient times, wine has been a significant element in religious and social traditions for cultures around the world. Join our real estate agents in celebrating National Drink Wine Day on Friday, February 18 with a toast at one of these popular wine bars near North Canton homes for sale. 

• Vinoteca Wine Bar - 4921 Hills and Dales Rd., Canton, OH 44708
  Vinoteca Wine Bar is just down the street from Canton homes for sale, but the sophisticated yet comfortable ambiance is truly a result of global influence. Husband-and-wife owners Sash and Rekha Parbhoo are from Johannesburg, South Africa, and Birmingham, England, respectively. On most nights, Sash and Rekha themselves will make recommendations and pour samples for you. Vinoteca has no on-site kitchen, but deliveries from neighboring restaurants are welcome. Hours are noon - 6 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday, noon - 9:30 p.m. Thursday, and 11:30 a.m. - 11:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
  
  
• The Crush House - 1700 55th St. NE, Canton, OH 44721
  No need to trek out to the countryside to visit a first-rate winery. The Crush House is part of Gervasi Vineyard, a stunning 55-acre winery resort only 10 minutes from downtown Canton. Located in a contemporary industrial-chic building, The Crush House is an award-winning wine bar where you can sample, drink, and take home Gervasi products. As if that wasn't enough, The Crush House serves a full menu of Italian-influenced cuisine such as crostatas, goat cheese ravioli, and grilled chicken piadas. The Crush House is open Monday through Thursday from 11:30 a.m. - 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 11:30 a.m. - 10 p.m.
  
  
• Grapes in a Glass - 575 Market Ave. N., Canton, OH 44702
  With a name like Grapes in a Glass, you know exactly what to expect at this upscale wine bar. Sommeliers hand-select the more than 70 wines offered by the glass or in wine flights, so you can indulge in your favorite or try a new variety. The menu of small plates, such as charcuterie boards and shrimp tacos, makes the perfect accompaniment. Test your performing chops on Thursday open mic nights, or sit back and enjoy the live music on weekends. Bring Fido along for a visit on the outdoor patio. Hours are 4 - 10 p.m. Thursday and 4 p.m. - midnight Friday and Saturday. 
  
  
• Huth & Harris Wine Merchants - 427 Tuscarawas St. E., Canton, OH 44702
  Planning a date night or celebration? The elegance and first-class service at Huth & Harris Wine Merchants make every event a special one. H2 provides a fine dining menu to go with their outstanding selection of wine. Make the night complete by purchasing a bottle of your favorite to take home. Doors open at 5 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, and reservations are required.
   
• The Barrel Room - 7901 Cleveland Ave. NW, North Canton, OH 44720
  In 2012, Keri Sullivan made some extra money picking up one shift a week as a server at The Barrel Room. By 2014, Keri had grown to love the place so much that she joined a partnership to buy it, becoming sole owner the following year. While wine is still the main focus, Keri has expanded the offerings to include craft beer and high-end spirits. Food includes a menu of light snacks along with a rotating line-up of food trucks. Hours are 4 - 11 p.m. Tuesday, 4 p.m. - midnight Wednesday and Thursday, 3 p.m. - 1 a.m. Friday, and 4 p.m. - 1 a.m. Saturday.

Ready to celebrate buying or selling a home in North Canton? Contact us at DeHOFF REALTORS® to learn more.

Are you into music? Whether your child is learning to play a musical instrument, you're a dedicated musician yourself, or you simply love to listen, North Canton has a nice variety of music shops you'll want to visit.

Our real estate agents recommend the following music shops around North Canton.

Stark County

• Pellegrino Music & Lesson Center - 5040 Everhard Rd. NW, Canton, OH 44718
  Located in the Belden Village area near North Canton homes for sale, Pellegrino Music & Lesson Center has served the area's music needs for 51 years. The family-owned and operated business offers nearly everything related to music, including the sale and rental of music instruments, music lessons, sheet music, and sound system design and installation. The shop also repairs musical instruments and prides itself on top-level quality and service.
  
  
• Gattuso's Music & More - 1300 Market Ave. N., Canton, OH 44714
  Gattuso's Music & More has earned a loyal following after 80 years in business, providing high-quality new, used, and vintage musical gear as well as rentals. They'll meet or beat any price, and since the store is staffed by knowledgeable musicians, you'll get the help and advice you need. And if your band needs some online exposure, the store has a stage available for live streaming. They'll handle the tech, so you need only provide the show.
  
  
• The Music Farm - 4900 Whipple Ave. NW, Canton, OH 44718  
  The Music Farm is an interesting name for a store, and it's meant to reflect the shop's mission of helping customers grow their passion for music. Order online if you'd like, or come into the store, located just around the corner from Canton homes for sale, and choose from a wide variety of products ranging from vintage folk instruments to new professional audio equipment. With over 80 years of combined experience, their helpful staff will ensure you get the right instrument.

Summit County

• Time Traveler Records - 118 W. Market St., Akron, OH 44303
  Despite competition from internet stores, online auction sites, and streaming services, Time Traveler Records in downtown Akron has continued to survive and even thrive. In fact, it's one of the oldest original record stores in the country and has grown to attract customers from throughout the U.S. If vinyl's your thing, you'll find a massive amount of used as well as new. If you love CDs, you'll be able to choose from thousands of new, used, vintage, rare, and out-of-print discs.
  
  
• Replay Music - 636 Canton Rd., Akron, OH 44312
  Replay Music is a popular destination if you're looking to find musical instruments and accessories as well as lighting and PA systems. You can also take vocal and instrumental lessons through the shop and even start training to become a recording engineer. Primetime Studio, Replay Music's recording studio, is professionally designed and acoustically tuned and is conveniently located next door to the store and just around the corner from Akron homes for sale. 
  
  
• A Max Music - 1084 E. Tallmadge Ave., Akron, OH 44310  
  A fixture in the Akron business and music community for 75 years, A Max Music has musical instruments and equipment of all kinds. New and used products are available, and they're backed by a free warranty. If you need help, many staff members have degrees in music and/or professional music and sound experience. In addition to more commonly found instruments, the shop also has ukuleles, banjos, mandolins, and harps for sale. 

Contact us if you're ready to buy or sell real estate. Our experienced and knowledgeable agents are happy to help you have a smooth transaction. 

Our real estate agents know it's never too early to get your home ready for market. If your plans for 2022 include moving to a new home in the spring, now is the right time to put a plan together so that your home is ready to go when you're ready to make your move. You can take the following steps now to ensure the process isn't overwhelming later.

• Go Easy On the Cosmetic Upgrades
  It's a seller's market, so you don't have to spend a lot of money to attract an offer. While you can still paint the walls of the main living areas and bedrooms a neutral color, you can skip the installation of pricey appliances, new windows, etc.

• ...But Clean Thoroughly
  While you don't have to undertake any major renovations, you will want to give the home a professional cleaning. Have the carpets steam cleaned, scrub bathrooms and kitchens, clean out the garage, and make sure the windows are crystal clear. It's also a good idea to make sure the air within the home is regularly refreshed.

• Start Packing Up Personal Items
  Before you paint, pack up any family pictures and bric-a-brac cluttering your home. This will declutter the home and help personalize it, making it easier for prospective buyers to imagine their photos and artwork on the walls. Further, declutter the closets, basement, garage, etc., by removing their contents and placing them in your new home or a self-storage facility. This has the added benefit of helping buyers get a true feel for how much storage space is in the home.

• Keep An Active Eye On Property You Want to Purchase
  Start looking at new homes well before you are ready to list your home. If you are financially able to purchase a home you are interested in before your current home sells, do so. This will help ease some pressure and give you the flexibility to wait for the best offer.

• Price Your Home Strategically
  The more time you spend looking at listings in the area, the better feel you will have for what your home is worth. Keep a close eye on similar North Canton homes for sale and Akron homes for sale. This will help you price your home to align with buyer expectations and current market conditions. Your real estate agent will also be invaluable in helping to set the right price for your home.

• Limit Access
  Supply is low, and demand is high. By limiting showings and availability to view the home, you will create a sense of exclusivity to your home. Like fine wines and fancy purses, the more exclusive the home feels, the more interested buyers will be to own it.

• Prepare For a Bidding War
  Current market activity means that you will likely receive multiple offers shortly after listing your home. Work closely with your real estate agent to map out a strategy for navigating a bidding war. Be sure to factor in price, prequalification, down payment, contingencies, concessions, etc. The more planning you put into this, the more likely you will secure the most advantageous offer.

Contact us when you are ready to prepare your home for the market. We will help guide you through the process and help you secure the best offer for your home.

Pumpkin pie may be a Thanksgiving staple, but there's no reason you can't enjoy this treat in December as well. In fact, December 25th (yes, you read that right) is National Pumpkin Pie Day. Why not celebrate it with a slice? There are many bakeries and restaurants serving delicious pumpkin pies in the area around North Canton and Akron. Our real estate agents have tracked down the best places to get one of these pies during December. 

• Gardner Pie - 191 Logan Pkwy., Akron, OH 44319 
  Gardner Pie is a quaint Akron bakeshop that serves hundreds of pies a day to residents of Summit County. They offer pumpkin pie as part of their seasonal lineup throughout December, including a tiny 6-inch pie meant to be shared by just two people. Since pie is their specialty, you know it'll be a treat worthy of a spot on the table during any gathering you host this month — maybe even your Christmas dinner!
  
  
• The West Side Bakery - 2303 W. Market St., Akron, OH 443119 
  West Side Bakery has been in business since 1995, and they've been declared Best Local Bakery by Akron Life Magazine more than a dozen times in those 26 years. That impressive track record tells you everything you need to know about the quality of their goods. They may be better known for their cakes (including gorgeously frosted wedding cakes), but they also have pumpkin pie available to order all year round.
  
  
• Sweet Mary's Bakery - 76 E. Mill St., Akron, Ohio 44308 
  Sweet Mary's is a self-described micro-bakery, which means they operate a little differently than most of the shops on this list. Each of their baked items is handmade fresh each day in small batches. This gives their baked goods an incomparable taste and texture that sets them apart from the competition. Their buttery, flaky deep-dish pumpkin pie is available in both 6-inch and 9-inch sizes and can feed up to eight people. It can also be made with a gluten-free crust upon customer request. 
  
  
• Grinders Above and Beyond - 1671 N. Main St., North Canton, OH 44720 
  Unlike most of the locations on this list, Grinders is not just a bakery but a full-service restaurant. The main dishes on their menu are their hearty sandwiches and wraps, but you can also order a few classic dinner items like strip steak, grilled salmon, and spaghetti with meatballs. They also offer a rotating selection of pie slices as part of their dessert menu. Pumpkin pie is part of this rotation, but since it isn't available every day, it may be best to call ahead and check if the restaurant is currently serving it before you head out for your meal.  
  
  
• Studio Bakery - 4339 Dressler Ave. NW, North Canton, OH 44718
  Studio Bakery is a popular destination for baked goods in North Canton. With many years' worth of happy customers singing their praises, this shop proudly serves cakes, macarons, frosted cookies, biscotti, and of course, pie. Their pumpkin pie is available in 5-inch or 8-inch sizes, allowing you to easily control portion sizes if you want to (we won't judge you if you don't).
  
  
• North Canton Farmer's Market - 1447 N. Main St., North Canton, OH 44720 
  Open from 3 to 7 pm every Wednesday, the North Canton Farmer's Market is a great place to find all of the items on your holiday shopping list — pumpkin pie included. This market's vendors sell fresh seasonal produce from local farmers as well as products from local artisans, such as preserves, hot sauce, handcrafted candles, and even homemade dog treats. Several bakers with shops in the area around North Canton sell their wares here, so you'll have plenty of selection available when choosing your delectable pie.  

There's no such thing as a bad time for the mellow, slightly spicy sweetness of pumpkin pie. With such a vibrant culinary scene near our Akron homes for sale and North Canton homes for sale, you'll always have somewhere to go to get the latest tasty treat you're craving. Contact us today to arrange a viewing of any of our properties in this region or any of our other service areas around Ohio.

Whether you're fixing a light snack, preparing dinner for a group of friends, or simply grabbing a drink out of the fridge, your home's kitchen gets used multiple times every single day. This is why homeowners put such a heavy focus on creating the perfect balance between appearance and functionality — and that's exactly why kitchen islands are all the rage. Let's look at a few kitchen island basics and which type of island our real estate agents believe could be right for you.

Proper Kitchen Size for an Island

If you've ever seen a kitchen island in the home of a friend or while checking out North Canton homes for sale or Akron homes for sale, then you already know that they take up a good amount of room. Even a small island will be at least 2 by 4 feet, but you also need enough room for people to walk around them comfortably. As a general rule, your kitchen should be a minimum of 8 feet deep and 12 feet long, with 40 inches by 40 inches of open space.

What Type of Kitchen Island to Install

Once you install a kitchen island, your home will never be the same again. There are several different features that you can choose from depending on your specific needs, but it typically boils down to five popular types, each of which will be an amazing addition:

• Galley Kitchen Island – While this might not be the most exciting kitchen island, its simplicity and straightforward nature have made it a big hit with homeowners. Galley kitchen islands are especially popular because, despite their smaller size, they can still accommodate bar-style seating. And as long as the island isn't too narrow, you can add items like appliances and a sink.
  
  
• L-Shaped Kitchen Island – While L-shaped kitchen islands look fantastic, they also take up a lot of kitchen space. You should only consider installing this type if you have a large kitchen and won't have to sacrifice the open space. What you'll get in exchange is a whole host of options such as bar-style seating at the smaller end, a lot more counter space, and plenty of room for a stove/oven/sink and appliances.
  
  
• U-Shaped Kitchen Island – Okay, now it's time to discuss the big one: the U-shaped kitchen island. Many homeowners consider this the crème de la crème, but they're also quite large. These are typically reserved for homes where the space between the kitchen and dining area or living room is entirely open and empty. As for options and conveniences, think "L-shaped kitchen island" and then dial it up to an 11… or maybe even a 15.
  
  
• Rolling Kitchen Island – If you have a small kitchen but can't stand the idea of not having a kitchen island of your very own, this might be the perfect solution. Rolling kitchen islands come in various shapes and sizes, allowing you to customize one to your precise needs. Whenever you entertain guests or need to prepare a big meal, simply roll it out and get to work. Just keep in mind that you'll also need to store it somewhere.
  
  
• Peninsula – Installing a peninsula is another great alternative to a full-sized kitchen island. These are attached to the outside of your counter to extend the available space. They also provide seating and additional storage, which will increase the functionality of your kitchen. 

Find Your Dream Home

Whether you're looking for a new home with the perfect kitchen island, backyard, or family room, we can help you find it. Contact us today to learn more. 

As a homeowner, there are many things you can do to protect your home from the unexpected, like installing a home security system or performing regular maintenance. But one thing you can't control is what Mother Nature throws your way. From hurricanes and tornadoes to earthquakes and floods, extreme weather events are becoming more regular, with some disastrous results. That's why having the right insurance coverage is so important. It can lessen the burden of getting your house back together after it's been hit by wild weather. Here, our real estate agents will walk you through the basics of homeowners insurance to help you better prepare for unexpected damage before it's too late.

How a Homeowners Insurance Policy Protects You

• Damage to the Interior or Exterior of the Home
  If your home is damaged or destroyed by lightning, fire, hail, hurricane, vandalism, and other covered disasters, your insurance provider will pay to repair or completely rebuild the home. Destruction from earthquakes, floods, and routine wear and tear is generally not covered. Most standard policies also cover freestanding garages, gazebos, tool sheds, or any other structure that's not attached to the house.
  
  
• Personal Belongings
  homeowners insurance doesn't just help cover structural damage, it also provides coverage for the items you keep within. Appliances, clothing, furniture, sports equipment, and most other contents of your home are covered if they're stolen or destroyed by an insured disaster. This part of the policy also includes "off-premises" coverage, which could allow you to file a claim for belongings lost anywhere in the world. However, there may be a limit on the amount the insurance provider will reimburse you.
  
  
• Personal Liability Protection
  Liability coverage protects you from lawsuits for property damage or bodily injury caused by you or your family member to another person not living with you. Suppose a delivery guy slips on ice on your walkway and breaks his leg, your insurer will pay for his medical expenses and lost wages if you're found at fault. The policy even pays for damage caused by pets. If your dog bites your neighbor, liability coverage may help pay for their medical expenses. Coverage extends to anywhere in the world.
  
  
• Additional Living Expenses
  If you find yourself forced out of your home due to damage from an insured disaster, this part of insurance would reimburse you for the cost of living away from your home. It covers hotel bills, restaurant meals, rent, and other incidental costs you incur while the home is being repaired or rebuilt.

Types of Homeowners Insurance Coverage

There are three levels of coverage:

• Actual Cash Value: Pays to replace the house or belongings after deducting depreciation.

• Replacement Cost: Covers the actual cash value of repairing or rebuilding your home without a depreciation deduction.
  
• Guaranteed or Extended Replacement Cost: The most comprehensive, this policy pays for the entire cost of repairing or rebuilding your home, even if it exceeds your policy limit.

What Disasters Does homeowners Insurance Cover?

homeowners insurance provides you financial protection in the event of damage caused by the following scenarios:

• Hail
• Lightning
• Volcanic eruption
• Wildfire
• Hurricanes
• Tornadoes
• Cold weather and snowstorms
• Explosion
• Damage caused by vehicles or aircraft
• Smoke
• Theft
• Vandalism
• Weight of snow, ice, or sleet
• Falling object

Even the broadest homeowners insurance policy won't cover every possible event that could damage or destroy your home. Most policies typically exclude damage caused by:

• Earthquakes, sinkholes, and landslides
• Flooding, including sewer and drain backup
• Nuclear hazard
• Infestations by birds, mold, fungus, or vermin
• Wear and tear or poor maintenance
• Power failure
• Government action

You'll want riders or separate policies for excluded natural disasters. Flood coverage is provided by the Natural Flood Insurance Program, but it can also be purchased from an insurance carrier. Earthquake coverage is available as a spate policy or as an endorsement.

Are you looking for Akron homes for sale or North Canton homes for sale? Our agents can help you find the perfect home for your family and provide home improvement tips to keep your home in tip-top shape. Contact us to learn more about services.

Our real estate agents never need an excuse to enjoy a delicious bowl of pasta — but just in case you do, you'll be glad to know that World Pasta Day is coming soon. That's right — there's an entire day dedicated to this amazing comfort food! 

One of the best things about pasta is that there are so many different ways to prepare it. This means you could order a pasta dish every time you go out to eat and never get bored. Whether you've just moved into one of the beautiful North Canton homes for sale or you're a long-time resident, now is a great time to visit one (or more!) of the area's best Italian restaurants. Here are a few we recommend.

• Luca Downtown: 228 4th St. NW, Canton, OH 44702
  Well-known for offering 10 years of award-winning dining, Luca Downtown is now under new management. Don't worry, though, you'll find all the old favorites here as well as a few amazing surprises.
  
  This upscale restaurant and bar is located in the heart of downtown. They pride themselves on using only fresh, locally sourced ingredients and you can definitely taste the difference. You'll love the beautiful Tuscan-inspired dining room and the incredible menu that features a variety of handmade pasta dishes. 

• Palombo's Italian Restaurant: 4100 Portage St. NW, North Canton, OH 44720
  A true neighborhood dining spot, Palombo's Italian Restaurant is a quaint, family-run restaurant that's housed in a cozy old home. They serve classic Italian meals and have a lovely deck where you can enjoy outdoor dining when the weather is warm. You'll find all the traditional pasta dishes on their menu including lasagna, chicken cannelloni, fettuccini alfredo, baked ziti, and more. 

• Contessa's Italian Pizzeria: 6630 Wise Ave. NW, North Canton, OH 44720
  If you're looking for a relaxed, easygoing restaurant, you can't go wrong with a visit to Contessa's Italian Pizzeria. They have a wide selection of pasta dinners on their menu and also offer a $7 VIP lunch menu. It includes baked mac & cheese, pasta penne, baked four-cheese spaghetti, and more.
  
  If you like things spicy, try their Angry Pasta — it's made with angel hair pasta topped with Cajun chicken and a melody of peppers and mushrooms. 

• Tozzi's on 12th: 4210 12th St. NW, Canton, OH 44708
  Family-run Tozzi's on 12th blends old-world Italian family recipes with a modern culinary style. Every meal here is truly an experience. If you've been thinking about buying one of the beautiful Canton homes for sale, this restaurant is sure to become one of your favorites.
  
  Their menu includes all of the classic pasta dishes. All of them are served with Mama Tozzi's house-made red sauce.

• That Little Italian Kitchen: 5730 Fulton Dr. NW, Canton, OH 44718
  The space may be small, but That Little Italian Kitchen serves up meals with big taste! The menu features classic pasta dishes that can be served with marinara, butter/garlic, or alfredo sauce. They also have homemade lasagna and shrimp tortellini with alfredo sauce.
  
  If you really want a meal to remember, try the baked mostaccioli made with fresh ground beef, fresh mushrooms, spices, and your choice of pasta. The dish is topped with cheese, baked, and served to you fresh out of the oven. 

The excellent selection of restaurants is just one of the many things to love about living in Stark County. If you're looking for your dream home here, our team can help. Contact us today to discuss your goals and get started. 

Colder weather is right around the corner, and that means it's almost fireplace season! Our real estate agents love seeing the glimmer in homebuyers' eyes when they start thinking about relaxing by their new fireplace on chilly evenings. But, before you light that first fall fire, you'll want to check your chimney. 

Now is the perfect time to review some important fireplace safety tips. These simple steps will help keep you and your family safe from the potential dangers that come with fireplace use.

1. Check Your Fireplace Damper
   Your damper is a critical part of your fireplace. Keeping it closed when you're not using it will help prevent cold drafts from coming into your home. This will improve your energy efficiency. When you're using your fireplace, it's critical to make sure your dampers are open. Otherwise, you'll end up with a house full of smoke and dangerous carbon monoxide. Before you start using your fireplace for the season, check that the damper works as it should. 

2. Inspect and Clean Your Fireplace
   Many of the beautiful Akron homes for sale have fireplaces in them. If you've just moved in, you might not think you need to do fireplace maintenance right away. However, it's better to be safe than sorry. Each year, it's important to inspect your fireplace, give it a thorough cleaning, and check your chimney to make sure there aren't any obstructions. If you find that there's a thick layer of creosote built up on the fireplace walls, you'll need to scrape it off. Otherwise, it could create a fire hazard.

3. Waterproof Your Chimney
   Moisture and elements can weaken the structural integrity of your chimney. This can cause mold and damage your fireplace. Adding a water sealant to the outside of your chimney will help keep moisture out so it can't break down the mortar and bricks. You may also want to consider adding a chase cover, which will reduce the amount of moisture that can come in through your chimney. If you have one made of galvanized steel, consider replacing it with one made of copper, stainless steel, or aluminum. This will help prevent rust. Masonry chimneys can benefit from having a crown, which works similarly to a chase cover. 

4. Decide if You Need a Chimney Sweep
   If you've been looking at North Canton homes for sale, you'll want to find a local chimney sweep to help with your fireplace maintenance. You can tell your chimney needs to be cleaned if the liner has 1/8 of an inch of soot or more. If you don't want to worry about measuring soot, just plan to have your chimney professionally cleaned about once every 50 burns. When purchasing a home with a chimney, you may want to find out when it was last professionally cleaned. 

5. Schedule an Annual Inspection
   Maintaining and inspecting your chimney is important, but it's not enough. At least once a year, you'll want to have a professional come out and give it a thorough inspection. It's not always easy for the average person to find potential problems, so taking this step will help ensure your fireplace — and your home — stay safe. 

If you've been looking for your dream home in Stark or Summit County, the agents at DeHoff Realtors are here to help! Contact us today, and you could be sitting by the fireplace in your new home before winter is over! 

Before you peruse real estate listings or pick out curtains, there's one thing you need to check that's more important than anything on your list. That one thing is your credit score because it will determine your ability to qualify for a mortgage and the amount of money you'll pay over the life of that loan. What you find may surprise you, but our real estate agents know there are some things you can do to get those numbers up to where you can qualify for the most favorable loan terms and the best interest rates.

The average credit score in the United States is 711. That's considered "good" credit. Those with "very good" credit have scores between 740-799, and those with "exceptional" credit fall between 800-850. These three ranges will allow you to qualify for most loans, but the higher the score, the better the loan terms and the lower the lender's interest rates.

• Pay Down Your Credit Card Balances
  It would be best if you got your credit utilization rate down to the point that is far below the credit you have available. Anything above 30% can weigh heavily on your score. Ideally, you want to pay your credit cards down to zero to not waste money each month on interest charges. The exception to this is any 0% interest cards you can pay off at your leisure, but even those should not be higher than 30% of your credit limit.
  
  
• Keep Accounts Open
  Don't close credit accounts! It seems counterintuitive, but the length of credit history accounts for 15% of your score. The longer the history, the better it is for your score. Further, be sure to use old credit cards periodically. Many issuers will close dormant accounts, so spend a few dollars on each card every year to keep them active. 
  
  
• ... But Don't Open Accounts
  Credit inquiries can lower your score, so you want to avoid opening any new accounts prior to purchasing Akron homes for sale or other properties. Unless it's an absolute necessity, focus on paying down balances and paying off installment debt. This will also help to improve your debt-to-income ratio, which is another crucial number lenders will examine.
  
  
• Make Your Payments
  Payment history accounts for 35% of your score. Make sure that you pay existing mortgages, car loans, medical bills, etc., on time, every time. Once payments are missed, they can stay on your credit report for a very, very long time.
  
  
• Check Your Report for Errors
  An alarming number of credit reports have inaccurate information on them. Before exploring North Canton homes for sale, explore your credit report for mistakes made by creditors. If you do discover errors, file a dispute. The creditor then has 35 days to investigate and respond. If it is a true error, they have a legal obligation to remove the offending information.
  
  
• Be Ready to Negotiate
  Creditors don't want to hurt your credit; they want your money and the debts you owe them. Often, creditors will remove negative information from a credit report if you pay the debt early or adhere to an established payment plan. If you've found yourself in a bind, it never hurts to try negotiating a solution.

When your credit is in order, and you're ready to buy, contact us, and we'll help you find the home of your dreams. It's our pleasure to help guide you through the process and give you the reliable advice you need to secure the most favorable mortgage for your future home!

Since Stark and Summit counties in Northeast Ohio have many beautiful rivers, lakes, and other waterways, kayaking is a popular pastime in the area. Whether you prefer calm or swifter waters, you'll have your choice of many locations where you can get your kayak in the water or rent one to use. Our real estate agents suggest visiting the following locations to get started on your kayaking adventure.

Stark County

• Trailhead Canoe Livery - 135 Lake Ave. NW, Massillon, OH 44647  
  For a relatively tame adventure, explore a calm, scenic stretch of the Tuscarawas River via kayak (or canoe) at Trailhead Canoe Livery near Massillon homes for sale. Choose from a shorter 3-mile trip that's a good choice if you have young kids, or pick a 6-mile journey for an adventure that lasts over 2 hours. Some pedal/paddle trips are also offered if you'd prefer to rent a bike to reach the launch area, where you'll then embark on your kayaking trip.
  
  
• Canal Fulton Canoe Livery & Campground - 219 Cherry St. W. #1066, Canal Fulton, OH 44614  
  Located between the Muskingum Trail and The Ohio Erie Canalway Towpath, Canal Fulton Livery & Campground offers a variety of outdoor experiences, including kayaking, canoeing, hiking, and camping. Take a trip down the Tuscarawas River near Canal Fulton homes for sale, and you're likely to see some of the abundant wildlife that makes its home along the river's shores. You might spot deer, blue herons, owls, bald eagles, turtles, or other wildlife inhabitants.
  
  
• Sippo Lake Park - 5300 Tyner St. NW, Canton, OH 44708   
  Rent single and double kayaks at the marina at the Sippo Lake Park marina, which is located near Canton homes for sale on the lake's eastern shore. It's easy to spend an entire day at the park, which also has hiking trails that line the shoreline and take you through wetlands and forests. And if you'd like to fish, the marina makes it convenient by selling live bait and tackle from May through October.

Summit County

• Burning River Adventures - 2025 Munroe Falls Ave., Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221
  Burning River Adventures, which is conveniently located close to Cuyahoga Falls homes for sale, offers self-guided and guided kayaking trips on the Cuyahoga River. A 1-hour trip that covers 2 miles is perfect for young or first-time kayakers, while a mid-level trip offers more adventure as it takes about 2 hours and covers 4.5 miles. It has two swift-moving water areas, but they're easy to navigate. A longer 6.5-mile, 3-hour trip takes you through the same swift water areas.
  
  
• Killinit Kayaks - 3803 ½ State St., Akron, OH 44319  
  Located near Akron homes for sale, Killinit Kayaks rents kayaks, paddles, and life vests for a reasonable rate per hour. They're available for any of Akron's string of eight Portage Lakes, and they'll lead you to any of the lakes for drop-off and return of the kayaks. And if you happen to live on one of the lakes, Killinit kayaks will deliver.
  
  
• Cuyahoga Valley Adventures - 1570 Akron Peninsula Rd., Akron, OH 44313 
  You can rent a kayak, life jacket, and paddle at Cuyahoga Valley Adventures before heading out to a section of the Cuyahoga River or one of the area's many lakes, ponds, or other waterways. Tours are also offered on local lakes, so you can choose from one that has no rapids or one that has Class II rapids. 

Contact us to learn more about the abundant natural beauty and recreational opportunities in Stark and Summit counties and to see North Canton homes for sale as well as other homes for sale in the area.

If you're looking for a way to boost your home's value, our real estate agents will advise you that you'll get the best return on investment from a fresh paint job. You can take years off the face of a kitchen by painting the cabinets. Our North Canton homes for sale are selling quickly, as are our Akron homes for sale, and fetching good prices, but with these five steps to a gorgeous kitchen, you can demand even more. 

• Make a plan
  Consider your budget, your time, and your expertise. You will have to decide between spraying and brushing. Spraying has the advantages of more durable lacquers, faster drying times, and smoother results. Brushing means no overspray and no expensive equipment. While an air compressor and spray gun can be rented at most home improvement stores, it will still take a little practice to achieve the best results. Drying time for spray lacquers is as short as a half-hour as opposed to about 24 hours for brushed enamels.
  
  
• Make preparations
  Consider how you are going to manage food while the kitchen is out of commission. Remove all hardware and, if you aren't replacing it, clean it thoroughly and put it aside carefully. When you remove the drawers and doors, label each one as to where it belongs. Place your designation where it will later be covered by hardware and cover it with a piece of masking tape. Mask off all surfaces that will not be painted with rosin paper or plastic, taping it down carefully. Using a strong cleaner like Trisodium Phosphate (TSP), clean all traces of kitchen grease and grime.
  
  
• Apply primer 
  Before you begin to paint, you will need to sand the surfaces to remove old stains and paint, as well as surface nicks and scratches. When the surface is smooth, clean all the dust with a tack cloth. Pay particular attention to any corners where dust and dirt could collect. Prime the boxes and the backs of the doors and drawers. When the primer is thoroughly dry, treat the exterior. When all surfaces are dry, buff them with 220-grit sandpaper. Use a tack cloth to remove dust particles and repeat the process. Allow the second coat to dry and buff again with a 280-grit paper, wiping once again with the tack cloth. Hint: Suspending the doors from cup hooks screwed into the edge can save drying time.
  
  
• Apply paint
  Start with the boxes and apply the first coat of paint, from top to bottom. Repeat with the drawers and doors, starting with the backs and allowing them to dry as you did in the priming step. Use a roller to paint the insides of the cabinets. After allowing the first coat to dry, lightly sand with 600-grit paper to remove brush strokes and drips. Clean with a tack cloth. Repeat the process. Allow the final coat to cure for at least 24 hours, whether you have opted for the spray or brush method.
  
  
• Re-assemble cabinets
  If you are using the original hardware, you can make it look like new by cleaning with a 50-50 solution of white vinegar and water. Scrub it with a soft toothbrush and buff it with a soft cloth to restore the finish. One at a time, remove the masking tape from the doors and install them in their proper places. Clean up the mess and let your new cabinets shine!

If you need help getting your home on the market, or are ready to find a home yourself, contact us. Our real estate professionals are here to help.

The new homeowner's to-do list should be divided into two basic categories. Let's take a look at the top things that need to go on the list.

Before You Move In

• Get Connected
  One of the first things to do before moving into your new home is to make sure the utilities have been connected and are running properly. From electricity to gas and Internet to phone, make sure everything is as expected.
  
  
• Security and Address
  The locks of the house and your home address will need to be changed before moving in. Updating your mailing address will ensure all relevant and important documents will reach you and not end somewhere else.
  
  
• Start Cataloging
  Make sure to collect all important documents and valuables and take note of them. It doesn't hurt to take pictures of everything as well, right before the move. It never hurts to have additional proof for insurance claims if an accident were to happen. By taking pictures, you can create proof of possession and condition of the item.
  
  
• Cleaning and Improvements 
  Make your first few days living in a new home that much nicer with a deep clean ahead of time. From washing windows to cleaning the carpets, cleaning tasks are easier in an empty house.
  
  
• Sleeping Area
  The first area of the new home that needs attention is the sleeping area. Make sure the beds are assembled and ready to use as soon as possible.

After You Move In

• HOA
  One of the first things to do when moving into a new home is to stop by the homeowner's association (HOA). The HOA will fill you in on all the rules regarding how to live and what to expect. Everything from trash pickup days to gardening rules can be found out at the HOA office.
  
  
• Children and Pets
  If you have children and pets, then show them around the home, yard and take them for a walk in the new setting. Children and pets need to feel comfortable when put in a new environment. If there is no fence around the yard, then it may be time to start thinking about adding one.
  
  
• Start Planning Before Digging
  Many new homeowners make the mistake of digging up the ground around the house as part of new landscaping projects. Call 811, the national dig safety hotline, before the shovel meets the ground to avoid hitting utility lines.
  
  
• The Neighbors
  Once you move in, the first few days are going to be chaotic. If you have friendly neighbors, they may show up with food. Regardless, it's a good idea to meet your neighbors, especially those nearby. They could help you in times of need or emergency.
  
  
• The Previous Home
  After settling in your new home, don't forget about the old abode. Arrange a cleaning crew to make it spotless for future users.

Compiling a list will give you a clear picture of what needs to be done and take away the stress of being a new homeowner. Contact us for all your real estate needs.

Spicy wings, cool people, and a hot summer day – what could be better? The restaurants, bars, and pizza shops of Stark County are known for serving some of the best wings that you'll find anywhere, with flavors to suit every taste. With National Wing Day coming up on July 29, now is the perfect time to find a new favorite place for wings. Our real estate agents have you covered, with our guide to six great places to order wings in Stark County.

1. Harmon's Pub – 2329 Tuscarawas St. W, Canton, OH 44708
   With great appetizers, affordable, delicious wings, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, Harmon's Pub is the ideal place to enjoy a wing night close to Canton homes for sale. There are 18 different flavors of wings available here, from the savory garlic & parmesan to the ultra-spicy Pappy Red. Harmon's Pub also offers "sinless" wings made with grilled chicken, perfect for when you're in the mood for a healthy option.
   
   
2. 3 Brothers Corner Tavern – 7192 Fulton Dr. NW, Canton, OH 44718
   If you're craving wings, 3 Brothers has you covered with its 3B Famous Wings. Choose either bone-in or boneless and top them with your favorite sauce. Go mild with BBQ or Garlic Parmesan, or kick up the heat with Dry Rub Cajun. Dine in on Saturday or Sunday for 53 Cent Weekend Wings.
   
   
3. Bison Street Burgers & Brews – 1409 Bison Ave. NW., Massillon, OH 44647
   A beautiful indoor seating area and expansive patio seating make Bison Street Burgers & Brews a local favorite for summer dining near Massillon homes for sale. And the food is even better than the scenery! Stop by during lunch hours to enjoy daily specials and perfect weather for patio dining.
   
   
4. The Basement – 6976 Whipple Ave. NW., North Canton, OH 44720
   A local sports bar chain that mixes wings, live entertainment, and tons of TVs for enjoying the biggest sporting events, The Basement is an excellent place to celebrate National Wing Day with a convenient location near North Canton homes for sale. If you're planning a night out with friends, this is a fun place to visit. There are tons of specials available nearly every day on an extensive selection of wings, appetizers, pizza, and so much more.
   
   
5. Winking Lizard Tavern – 2175 E. Maple St., North Canton, OH 44720
   At Winking Lizard Tavern, you can order your Lizard Wings sweet and mild or turn up the heat with sauces like Fire in the Hole, Magma, and 911. You'll definitely want to wash down your Traditional, Boneless, or Skinny Dippers wings with a drink from the draft list. We're partial to Fat Heads Bumble Berry or Great Lakes Crushworthy Citrus Wheat.
   
   
6. Bubba's 33 – 4721 Dressler Rd. NW, Canton, OH 44718
   Can't decide on which flavor to order? That's no problem when you visit Bubba's 33, which offers eight flavorful sauces and two dry rub seasonings to suit every taste. Try something extra-spicy like Habanero Heat, or something sweet and smoky like Raspberry Chipotle wings. Everything on the menu is made from scratch daily, and the restaurant has a fun, family-friendly atmosphere that's perfect for celebrating National Wing Day with every member of the family.

Fabulous food is never far from your front door when you live in Stark County, and our team would love to help you find your next home in the area. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Stark County, OH area.

July is Ice Cream Month! This seems rather fitting, being that July is one of the hottest months of the year. Eating an ice cream cone or sipping on a delicious shake is a wonderful way to beat the heat. Here are some of the top places our real estate agents recommend stopping for ice cream in the North Canton area.

• Handel's Homemade Ice Cream: 219 E. Maple St., North Canton, OH 44720 and 7212 Fulton Dr. NW, Canton, OH 44718
  Handel's Homemade Ice Cream originated in Youngstown Ohio in 1945, and they have since opened other locations, including this location near North Canton homes for sale. They always use the best ingredients and aim to make their customers smile. 
  
  Handel's has more than 50 flavors. They're also known for their Handel Pops, which are scoops of their ice cream, on a stick, dipped into gourmet chocolate. Handel's Hurricanes, which are vanilla ice cream blended with various chopped candies, are also popular.
  
  
• Taggart's Ice Cream Parlor: 1401 Fulton Rd. NW, Canton, OH 44703
  Taggart's Ice Cream Parlor is an old-fashioned ice cream parlor located near many Canton homes for sale. They still have high-backed chairs and an antique soda machine, which makes you feel like you're stepping back in time when you visit.
  
  Taggart's ice cream is made in-house using fresh cream and other high-quality ingredients. In addition to all the classic flavors, they offer some unique options like Butterfinger and White House. If you're really in the mood for something special, try one of their sundaes or a banana split. You can always grab another pint, quart, or half-gallon of ice cream to take home.
  
  
• Pav's Creamery: 708 S. Main St., Canton, OH 44720
  Pav's Creamery is a retro ice cream parlor in the building that once housed the historic Isley's Ice cream. Pav's takes pride in their unique flavor options, which are always changing. You can see the latest featured flavors on the website. Favorite year-round flavors include Blueberry Cheesecake and Death by Peanut Butter.
  
  Pav's has both indoor and outdoor seating areas. In addition to ice cream, they also serve adult milkshakes—like the Double Irish Trouble, a blend of chocolate ice cream, Guinness, Irish Cream, and chocolate sauce.
  
  
• Cherry Street Creamery: 136 Cherry St. W, Canal Fulton, OH 44614
  If you're looking at Canal Fulton homes for sale, stop by Cherry Street Creamery for a cone or shake. This is a small ice cream shop where you order at the window and enjoy your ice cream outside at a picnic table.
  
  Cherry Street Creamery is known for their milkshakes, and they often have buy-one, get-one deals. They also serve burgers, fries, and other sandwiches if you're in the mood for a quick lunch or dinner.
  
  
• New Baltimore Homemade Ice Cream: 14738 Ravenna Ave., NE, Hartville, OH 44601
  This family-run ice cream shop is near many Hartville homes for sale. In addition to all the classic flavors, they also offer ice cream sandwiches and a great selection of sundaes. The Nuthouse Sundae, made with caramel and salted mixed nuts, is a fan favorite.
  
  New Baltimore Homemade Ice Cream has no-sugar-added options, and they even make some frozen yogurt. Flavors are always changing, and dedicated fans know to watch the menu for their favorites to pop up.

You have 31 days to celebrate Ice Cream Month at one of these ice cream shops, and of course, you can visit more than once! If you're thinking of moving to the North Canton area, you'll need a real estate agent to guide your home search. Contact us; we're here to help.

Is your house soon going to be added to North Canton homes for sale listings? Our real estate agents can tell you that two of the most important rooms in your house are the kitchen and master bathroom. These are areas where you spend a great deal of time at the start and end of your day. They're also the areas where buyers often look for bells and whistles. So, upgrading your kitchen and bathroom(s) to contemporary tastes and styles is a sure-fire way to add value to your home and charm house hunters.

Kitchen Remodel

A major kitchen remodel can lead the way in commanding higher prices by some margin. In fact, you could recoup between 62 and 70 percent of your total renovation costs when you sell your home. Kitchens, however, are the most expensive rooms to renovate. You need to plan your reno and choose the upgrades that make the most sense for your wallet and goals.

• Repaint or Replace Cabinets
  Cabinets take a lot of abuse on a daily basis, giving the kitchen a dated and ignored look. Choosing new, high-quality cabinets is one of the best ways to give your kitchen a completely new and luxurious look. If you're on a budget remodel, repainting or resurfacing the cabinets and adding in new hardware can give your cabinets a new look without the installation cost.
  
  
• Swap Out Your Countertops
  Countertops can make or break a kitchen. The right countertop material can revive a dated kitchen and charm homebuyers. Go for a material that gives a clean and modern look, but make sure you don't go over the top.
  
  
• Update the Lighting
  In the hardest-working room of your home, show-stopping light fixtures will draw the eye and make a good impression. Use a mix of fixtures to layer different types of light – accent, task, ambient, and mood.
  
  
• Add in a New Kitchen Sink
  The kitchen sink is one of the most used features, so you can bet open-house goers will notice right away if it's lacking in utility or style. Choosing the right shape and material for your sink will depend on your budget and kitchen size.
  
  
• Don't Forget the Island
  A kitchen island is the centerpiece of the open-plan entertainment. It should be modest in size and centrally located. You can add a sink or cooktop if there's enough space.

Bathroom Remodel

The master bathroom should evoke the feel and visual aesthetics of a luxurious retreat. A sparkling master bath with clean lines and finishes that require less maintenance can go a long way in tugging at buyers' heartstrings. Here are some high-value remodeling projects that can make your bathroom a more inviting place guaranteed to grab buyer attention.

• Update the Vanity
  Most buyers are looking for vanities that have granite countertops and hit a comfortable height. You can put together the perfect vanity yourself or buy kits that have all the features you need for one price. Make sure the materials and colors you pick will have more appeal to buyers.
  
  
• Upgrade the Flooring
  Replacing the flooring is a good way to go if you're looking for a dramatic change. You can also install radiant heat mats underneath your flooring to change the feel and utility of the space.
  
  
• New Plumbing Fixtures
  Swap your dated towel rails, taps, showerheads, and roll holders for more modern and contemporary designs. Choosing fixtures that complement the rest of the bathroom can make a big difference in how your bathroom is perceived by buyers.
  
  
• Enhance Space with Lighting
  New lighting fixtures can revitalize your bathroom, add character, and create the illusion of space. You can incorporate ceiling lights, bathroom vanity lights, and bathroom mirror lights to elevate your bathroom into a spa-like oasis.
  
  
• Add Luxury Details
  If your budget allows, you may want to add a few luxurious amenities to the bathroom. For instance, spa jets in the bath, heater exhaust fans, and under-floor heating will appeal to a buyer's sense of wanting to be pampered at home.

Our team at DeHoff REALTORS® can help you determine the most valuable remodeling projects for your home. Contact us today to discuss the features buyers are most interested in as they browse Akron homes for sale.

When you buy produce, you typically don't know much about how it's grown or how many miles it traveled before it reaches you. This means it won't be as fresh, tasty, or nutrient-dense as it could be. Buying farm-fresh produce, on the other hand, means you know where your food comes from and can get specific information about how it was grown. It will be delicious, colorful, and full of important nutrients, and as an added bonus, you'll be helping to support your local farmers and economy.

Our real estate agents recommend visiting these five places in Stark County to stock up on farm-fresh produce.

1. North Canton Farmers Market – 1447 N. Main St., North Canton, OH 44720  
   You'll be able to buy a wide variety of local products year-round at the North Canton Farmers Market, including farm products, baked and preserved goods, and personal care items. Almost everything that's offered for sale travels less than an hour from the farm or kitchen it was created in to where it's sold at the market, located near North Canton homes for sale. During warmer weather months. The market is operated outside, then moves to the indoors after mid-October. And while you're shopping at the market, check out its Mural of Gratitude, a farmers market-inspired piece of art. Hours are 3-6 p.m. on Wednesdays.
   
   
2. Canton Farmers Market – Centennial Plaza on 4th St. NW and Court Ave., Canton, OH 44702  
   From its downtown location near Canton homes for sale, the Canton Farmers Market gives you the perfect chance to make a day of it as you shop and dine. Start your day by buying some fresh farm goods as well as creations from local makers and artists before browsing in downtown shops and catching lunch or dinner. Hours are 10 a.m.-1 p.m. on Saturdays starting June 12.
   
   
3. Beiler's Penn Dutch Market – 13160 Cleveland Ave. NW, Uniontown, OH 44685  
   A family-owned and operated business, Beiler's Penn Dutch Market is located just around the corner from Uniontown homes for sale. The market has partnerships with many local farms and Amish and Mennonite suppliers, so you'll have your choice of a wide variety of fresh produce. While you're there, check out the market's meats, baked goods, and bulk products.
   
   
4. Zoe Farms – 5676 Faircrest St. SW, Canton, OH 44708 
   When you buy food at Zoe Farms, you can be assured your purchases are farm-fresh. Produce is grown without chemicals, and you can also pick up delicious fresh foods like free-range eggs and pasture-raised chicken while you're there. It's all offered at their farm stand, which is housed in a renovated caboose from 1942. Hours are 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Saturday.
   
   
5. Hartville Marketplace & Flea Market – 1289 Edison St. NW, Hartville, OH 44632  
   Hartville Marketplace & Flea Market, located near Hartville homes for sale, has indoor and outdoor vendors galore and is the perfect spot to spend the day and find some treasures. In addition to typical flea market wares, you'll find growers who sell their produce and other products. It even has a South Side Market area inside that's dedicated to food items like produce. Flea Market hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday and Thursday-Saturday, and South Side Market hours are 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday-Saturday.

Contact us to buy or sell a home in the area. Our team has years of experience and is ready to help! 

There's so much to do in spring. Inside you've got spring cleaning, but outside needs major attention as well. However, it's not that hard to make your property's front yard stand out from other North Canton homes for sale or Akron homes for sale. Let's take a look at some of the ways you can makeover your front yard.

1. Remove or trim back dead or damaged plants.
   Your yard will look neglected if you don't deal with broken limbs, the skeletal remains of last year's perennials, or dead ornamental grasses. Be systematic. Start with the trees and shrubs. You may need to hire a tree specialist to cut down dead shrubs or trim broken limbs. Move on to the flower beds. Trim and bag up the brown twigs, weeds, leaves, and grasses.
   
   
2. Improve the soil.
   Any substantial makeover involves improving the soil. That means improving your turf soil, as well as that in the flower beds. In our climate, it's usually best to apply pelletized compost and a slow-release organic fertilizer in the fall to encourage grass roots to reach deeper in the soil. But you can get away with doing it this spring if you didn't do it before. Also, remember to mow high: Let grass grow 2 to 3 inches to shade out weeds. Also, the higher the grass, the deeper the roots will be.
   
   In flower beds, add garden soil where needed, supplemented with compost and mulch.
   
   
3. Put that design on paper.
   You may have been dreaming all winter about where to plant another tree, how to expand a flower bed, what new flowers you'd like to add to an existing bed, or what old shrubs you'd like to remove so you can spiff up the yard with new plantings. Draw out your design so you can get a better sense of how it will look. You might show the design to your garden center professional and discuss any potential problems such as too much or too little sun, how to improve problem soil issues, or what to do about a huge tree that inhibits growth and encourages bald spots in the lawn. 
   
   
4. Add some color.
   Start planting this spring with some easy-to-grow but colorful annuals such as Dianthus and Osteospermum. Some of the best annuals to purchase from the garden store for ready-made color in North Canton and Akron gardens are begonias, cosmos, marigolds, pansies, and petunias. Petunias are also picture perfect for hanging baskets and containers—an easy way to add a dash of color to the front porch.
   
   For longer-lasting results, plant perennials. Ask the garden center which ones will flower in spring, summer, and fall, so you'll have a changing array of colors as the season progresses. Try daylilies; hostas; blanket flower; cannas; phlox; cosmos; and verbena for starters.
   
   If you're into helping butterflies and wildlife, choose perennials that will feed struggling monarchs, such as butterfly weed or milkweed. Blue mistflower is a great late summer/fall flower to feed monarchs as well.
   
   
5. Go a little wild with outdoor decor.
   Make a pledge to do a little something new out front every year, be it painting a mailbox in a bold new color scheme, adding a decorative chair on the front porch, or installing some pavers in a low area, so it's more fun to walk through a boggy area. Add some lighting to mark the pavers for dramatic effect.

Our real estate agents have many tips that can help you sell or improve your home. Contact us today. 

The decision to buy a home is among the most important decisions you'll ever make. As with all big decisions, it isn't one you want to walk into blindly. Our real estate agents understand that it's perfectly normal to want to focus on finding your dream home. However, the largest and most important detail to take care of is the mortgage, and you should get the preapproval process out of the way before ever starting your search. 

The Importance of Preapproval

Preapproval is your ticket to comfortable homeownership. Unlike pre-qualification, the preapproval process is more in-depth and detailed. Your lender will thoroughly review your W2 statements, bank records, credit reports, tax records, employment records, etc. This is often referred to as the "4 C's" since the lender will look at your capacity to pay the mortgage, your credit, the capital/cash reserves you have access to, and the collateral you're putting down for the loan.

The lender will carefully calculate your total liabilities and financial capacity to take on more debt. At the end of the process, the lender will tell you precisely how much they are willing to lend you. This allows you to search with confidence, knowing what you can comfortably purchase in Akron or North Canton.

Further, you can obtain preapproval letters from multiple lenders. This is advisable because it allows you to shop for the best rates and loan terms. When you find the North Canton homes for sale that you want to make an offer on, you can buy with confidence, knowing that you can comfortably afford the mortgage obligation.

One of the most important reasons to secure a preapproval letter is that it can significantly reduce the amount of time it takes to find the ideal home. By removing homes outside of your budget, you can narrow down your search to listings within neighborhoods where you can settle in comfortably without having to stretch your budget to cover the mortgage. 

2021 is Shaping Up to Be a Highly Competitive Market

It's a highly competitive market right now. In much of the country, the number of homes available is far less than the number of buyers in the market. While not guaranteed, this means you need to plan for "bidding wars" to erupt. When you are preapproved, you know precisely how much you can spend to get the home you want. 

A preapproval letter also shows the seller that you can seal the deal without any problem. This gives you a slight edge over other buyers who submit bids without a preapproval. Sellers may be willing to take a risk that a high bid will come through, but more often than not, they will take the offer that is already backed by money in the bank.

When you have a preapproval letter in your pocket, you can move forward quickly and confidently. There's no need to waste time waiting for the bank to review your application because everything is already done. 

We encourage you to contact us for more information about preapproval letters and the ways we can use them to help you secure a contract on the Akron homes for sale that are perfect for your needs.

Stark County's present has been shaped by its past. How much do you know about the people and events that have influenced the area? Our real estate agents love exploring Stark County's rich history at these fascinating locations around North Canton.

1. William McKinley Presidential Library & Museum - 800 McKinley Monument Dr. NW, Canton, OH 44708
   Ohio is second only to Virginia in the number of presidents that have come from the state. William McKinley Presidential Library & Museum has been called a "hidden gem" just minutes from Canton homes for sale. In addition to the memorial to our 25th president, which includes the final resting spot of McKinley and his family, the museum features a comprehensive exhibit displaying 200 years of Stark County history. Admission is $10 for adults and $8 for kids ages 3-18. The museum is open from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday (closed from noon - 1 p.m. for cleaning).
   
   
2. Canton Museum of Art - 1001 Market Ave. N., Canton, OH 44702
   The Canton Museum of Art owes its existence to another local cultural institution. In 1935, the Little Civic Art Gallery opened in a small room on the second floor of the Canton Public Library. Annual programming includes 12 to 14 exhibits, from nationally touring shows to curated collections from regional artists. Tickets are $8 for visitors over the age of 12, with free admission every Thursday and the first Friday of each month. Visits are currently by reservation only. CMA is open 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. Sunday.
   
   
3. First Ladies National Historic Site - 205 Market Ave. S., Canton, OH 44702
   U.S. Presidents are the stuff of grade school history classes, but the First Ladies have a compelling story all their own. The Education and Research Center at the First Ladies National Historic Site depicts how these vibrant, intelligent women overcame the restraints of tradition to establish a position of influence. Admission is free for all visitors. Hours are 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday.
   
   
4. Hoover Historical Center - 1875 E. Maple St., North Canton, OH 44720
   How many carpets in North Canton homes for sale have been made spotless by Hoover vacuum cleaners? The Hoover Historical Center preserves the legacy of the man who became, literally and figuratively, a household name. As you walk through William H. Hoover's childhood home, enjoy interactive exhibits playing iconic advertising jingles and try out different models of vacuum cleaners from over the years. The exterior of the home is equally interesting, with award-winning gardens tended by volunteers from The Herb Society. Admission to the center is free, but donations are welcome and reservations are required. Tours are conducted on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday afternoons.
   
   
5. Massillon Museum - 121 Lincoln Way E., Massillon, OH 44646
   While most museums are dedicated to either art or history, Massillon Museum prides itself on bringing both together. Before moving to its current location in 1938, the museum was in the home once owned by James Duncan, founder of Massillon. Today the museum holds more than 100,000 artifacts, including photographs, textiles, and artwork, as well as a permanent exhibit devoted to Paul Brown, the legendary NFL Hall of Fame coach and executive who grew up around Massillon homes for sale. Museum admission is free, with donations accepted. Hours are 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 2 p.m. - 5 p.m. Sunday.

Be a part of Stark County's future with a home of your own. Contact us at DeHoff Realtors to speak with one of our friendly and knowledgeable real estate agents. 

From the outside, it's easy for home valuation to feel like one big mystery. Even though you might be familiar with many of the ingredients that go into a home valuation, you might be wondering how your real estate agent mixes them all together to identify the right listing price for the home. Our real estate agents are here to provide an industry perspective and help you unravel the mystery of home valuation.

• Understanding What Goes Into a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA)
  Let's say you're trying to price a home to compete with other Akron homes for sale. A CMA is one of the most important tools that your agent will use to help determine the value of the home. By comparing the home with similar properties that were part of recent real estate transactions in the same market, you can find an asking price that fits that market. A CMA takes into account homes that are currently for sale, homes that have recently sold, and homes that were listed but didn't sell. The process works best when there are more homes in your market with a similar size, amenities, and features.

• Bedrooms, Bathrooms, and Amenities
  While the size of a home is an important factor in the price, two similarly sized homes can still have very different values. The condition of the home is naturally an important factor, but so is how the space in the home is used. The number of bedrooms and bathrooms, along with garage space, are all key factors for buyers to consider. Of course, any added amenities will also influence price. A home with a swimming pool, ultra-modern kitchen, and outdoor dining space will be worth more than a similarly sized home without those features.

• Neighborhood, School District, and Local Attractions
  It's not just the amenities within the home that impact the valuation. The amenities, attractions, and characteristics of the neighborhood also play a key role. A home that is conveniently located with nearby shopping, dining, attractions, and a short commute to work will have more value than a home located in a neighborhood without all of those perks. Buyers with kids will also tend to be very interested in the quality of the local school district, and may be willing to pay a premium for homes in the best school districts.

• The Impact of Market Conditions on Home Values
  The home itself is a huge factor, but the market where that home is located can also have a significant impact on a home valuation. If you're pricing a home to compete with North Canton homes for sale, then your price needs to fit within the realities of that market. In a market where homes are selling fast and inventory is low, you may be able to ask for a higher price than in other markets.

• How Flexible Are Your as a Seller?
  Do you have the time to be patient with your home sale, or do you need to meet a specific deadline in order to move on to your next home? If a buyer makes an excellent offer but needs to complete the sale ASAP, will you be able to accommodate their needs? Your flexibility as a seller can impact the value you can expect to receive, and is especially important once you get into negotiations with a potential buyer.

When it's time to buy or sell your next home, our team is here to help you analyze the market with expert advice. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Canton, OH area.

North Canton has a great variety of local restaurants, bars, and other eating and drinking establishments, including wine bars, that you'll want to try. Each has its own unique character, ranging from casual and rustic to upscale, so you can choose one to suit your mood.

Our real estate agents suggest making a stop at any of the following wine bars to unwind and enjoy a glass of vino.

• The Barrel Room Wine and Beer Bar – 129 North Canal St., Canal Fulton, OH 44614 and 7901 Cleveland Ave. NW, North Canton, OH 44720 
  The Barrel Room Wine and Beer Bar – which has two locations convenient to Canal Fulton homes for sale as well as North Canton homes for sale – offers a large, hand-picked selection of fine wines. You can order them off the menu or buy a bottle in the retail section that's up in the loft. The Canal Fulton location is open from 4-11 p.m. Tuesday-Wednesday, 4 p.m.-midnight Thursday and Saturday, and 4 p.m.-midnight Friday. North Canton hours are 4 p.m.-11 p.m. Monday-Tuesday, 4 p.m.-midnight Wednesday-Thursday, 3 p.m.-1 a.m. Friday, and 4 p.m.-1 a.m. Saturday.
  
  
• Grapes in a Glass – 575 Market Ave. N., Canton, OH 44702  
  You'll have your choice of over 70 wines by the glass or tasting flight at Grapes in a Glass, located near Canton homes for sale in the heart of the Art District. They're all hand-selected by a sommelier, and you'll be able to find a wine to love whether you prefer the lightest of whites or the heaviest of reds. When the weather's nice, you can sip your wine on the outdoor patio, or sit inside and enjoy the friendly atmosphere and art-covered walls. Hours are 4-10 p.m. Thursday and 4 p.m.-midnight Friday-Saturday.
  
  
• The Crush House – 1700 55th St. NE, Canton, OH 44721 
  The Crush House is located on the grounds of Gervasi Vineyard, so you'll want to try some of their wines at The Crush House. Order a flight featuring a selection from the vineyard or try a selection of reds or whites by the glass, bottle, or take-home bottle. A selection of Italian wines produced exclusively for the vineyard is also available, but they must be enjoyed on-site. Hours are 11:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 11:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Friday-Saturday, and 11:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Sunday.
  
  
• M Bar - Canton's Martini and Wine Bar – 5260 Dressler Rd. NW, Canton, Oh 44718 
  Located in the heart of Belden Village, M Bar is a great destination to relax and enjoy a glass of wine with friends, family, or co-workers. Offerings include a nice selection of Cabernets, Merlots, Pinot Noirs, Zinfandels, Chardonnays, and more. And if you'd like a bite to eat along with your wine, try an appetizer, salad, or sweet treat. Hours are 5:30 p.m.-2:30 a.m. Monday-Saturday and noon-midnight Sunday.
  
  
• H2 Huth & Harris Wine Merchants – 427 Tuscarawas St. E., Canton, OH 44702
  H2 Huth & Harris Wine Merchants has a refined casual atmosphere where you can enjoy a glass or bottle of their vast selection of wine and other alcoholic beverages. You can also buy a bottle to take home or purchase a case at a 10% discount. An upscale menu of house-prepared appetizers and entrees – including grilled quail and rosemary rubbed rack of lamb – has many choices you'll love. Hours are 5 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Thursday-Saturday by reservation only.

Contact us to learn about homes for sale, or if you'd like to sell your home. Our experienced, knowledgeable agents are happy to help! 

Our real estate agents know just what it's like when the day comes to an end and you don't feel like cooking. When you want a treat that's easy to eat and that the whole family can sink their teeth into. That's especially true on February 9, when the whole country will celebrate National Pizza Day! If that sounds good to you, you'll be thrilled to learn that some of the best pizzas in Ohio are only a phone call and a few short minutes down the road.

• Antonio's Pizzeria LoSchiavo - 2205 E. Maple St., North Canton, OH 44720
  Antonio's Pizzeria is simply the best in town. Opened in 1967, this family pizzeria has honed the art of making pizza to a fine, triangular point. Whether you want the Family Deal, Trio Deal, or Double Deal to enjoy as you look over North Canton homes for sale, you'll find plenty of options to fill up everyone in the family for a great price.
  
  
• Luigi's Restaurant - 105 N. Main St., Akron, OH 44308
  Since 1949, Luigi's Restaurant has been a local favorite for quality pizza and top-shelf service. With portion sizes that match the restaurant's reputation, you can rest assured that no one in your party will go home hungry. Whether you want a three-cheese pizza piled high with your favorites, lasagna, calzones, or more, Luigi's has something for the whole family to sink their teeth into and enjoy.
    
• Mr. Zubs - 795 W. Market St., Akron, OH 44303
  Mr. Zubs is a great place to go when you want to wash your favorite pizza down with a cold beer. They offer some of the best craft beers in town, and each pair perfectly with the pizza masterpieces their chefs are cooking up in the kitchen. Whether you drop in or order through Doordash, you will want to sample everything on the menu.
  
  
• Italo's - 3560 Middlebranch Rd. NE, Canton, OH 44705
  For more than 50 years, the chefs at Italo's have proudly served authentic Italian pizza to homeowners throughout Canton. This is a "go-to" destination for pizza purists who love the flavors of the old country. Their award-winning pizza creations are perfect for parties, celebrations, and for those times when you just want to sit back and enjoy time with family.
  
  
• Trecaso's - 780 W. Market St., Akron OH 44303
  Michael Trecaso's Restaurant is the perfect blend of sugar and spice. They offer a wide array of Italian foods, including pizza, calzones, and more. When you've had your fill and are ready for dessert, you'll enjoy traditional Italian ice cream and service with a smile that will have you coming back time and time again.
    
• Your Pizza Shop - 1077 W. Exchange St., Akron, OH 44313
  When you want pizza your way, then Your Pizza Shop is the only place in Akron you need to visit. Whether you want pepperoni, extra cheese, mushrooms, or other toppings piled as high as you can imagine, they make it easy to create the pizza that's perfect for your palette. 

Contact us to speak with our team about the beautiful Akron homes for sale right now. It is our pleasure to answer your questions and help you find the perfect place to sit back and enjoy memorable meals with your friends and family.

Adding storage to your home isn't limited to grabbing plastic bins and stacking them in the attic or garage. Innovative storage solutions enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home while cleaning out the junk drawer. Our real estate agents are familiar with some fun and nifty ways to add innovative storage options to your home.

• Add a loft bed.
  Loft beds are great storage solutions in small bedrooms, especially for children. Kids love sleeping in a loft bed. The loft bed allows you to keep a desk or drawer under the bed for additional storage.
  
  
• Install a variety of garage hooks.
  Plenty of North Canton homes for sale will have a garage full of opportunities to add innovative storage solutions. Garage hooks come in all shapes and sizes and can help you utilize unused vertical space. Use garage hooks to hang ladders, racks, shovels, and other large tools up and off the ground.
  
  
• Back of door storage isn't limited to shoe cubbies.
  The interior-facing side of closet doors is a great place to add storage. You can use the tried-and-true shoe racks method to store tools, spare cable wires, and other similar items. However, shoe rack hooks frequently scratch the bottom of the door frame. Rather than using this tired storage method, you can hang a pegboard to store tools and other objects.
  
  
• Stacked closet rods to maximize space.
  The closet is under-utilized in many homes. Closets usually come with a single rod that is set high in the closet. However, this style usually leaves a lot of space beneath blouses and shirts unused. You can add a stacked rod that has two levels of storage options to double capacity.
  
  
• Add a Hanging garden.
  No, not like the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, but rather plants that you stick to the wall and watch grow. Can bring your herb garden indoors to survive Ohio winters. Stick-on-wall potted plants add a calming dimension to any room and are relatively low-maintenance. You can teach your kids about responsibility by growing an indoor garden.
  
  
• Build a shed.
  Many Akron homes for sale have big backyards that are perfect for adding a storage shed. Storage sheds can hold yard maintenance tools and equipment. Store your weed whacker, leaf blower, rakes, and garbage bins. If you have kids, keep their outdoor toys in there as well.
  
  
• Get rid of faux drawers.
  Many kitchens have faux drawers, usually around the sink, to accommodate the storage underneath. Make these faux drawers useful by adding a pullout mechanism and adhering to a storage bin behind it. A pullout faux drawer can store sponges, scrubbers, and other kitchen sink tools out of sight.
  
  
• Add a skinny floor cabinet to the bathroom.
  Bathrooms are notoriously space-inefficient. The sink and toilet are rounded and oddly shaped. You can add some easy storage by putting in a skinny floor cabinet underneath the toilet paper roll. The floor cabinet can hold extra toilet paper, bathroom cleaning supplies, and other items that take up space, but you don't want to mix with your face creams and lotions.
  
  
• Turn a platform bed drawer into a doggy bed.
  Do you have a furry friend? You can keep the doggy bed in a platform bed drawer so you can slide it out of sight when needed and pull it out for bedtime.

Storage is a balance between efficiency and aesthetics. You don't want to live in a warehouse, but you also need to keep your house under control. Contact us if you would like to learn more nifty storage solutions for your home.

After autumn leaves have fallen and your neighbors have started pulling out the holiday decorations, it takes more than a sweater to keep warm, even inside the house. You may be striving to balance your desire for frugality with a need to keep your teeth from chattering. Heating efficiency is one aspect of home comfort that our real estate agents look out for. But there are ways to keep your home warm while keeping the heating bill low. 

1. First Draft Pick
   Turn the heat up as high as you like, but with leaky windows and door frames, you'll be heating the outdoors as well. While older homes are more likely to have inefficient windows and leaks, new homes can spring a leak suddenly too. Use an infrared thermometer to identify cold spots, and take note of where there might be a gap to seal or caulk that might need touching up. If your home has an attic, know that even the best of the North Canton homes for sale must contend with a drafty attic on occasion.
   
   
2. Seal the Deal
   Some forms of insulation are very DIY friendly. You can fill in small gaps with weatherstripping or with spray foam sealant. You may want a professional to install attic insulation, especially if yours is among the Akron homes for sale with an older type of insulation that needs updating. Sealing windows with heavy plastic will serve many homes well through winter storms.
   
   
3. Mist Opportunities
   One of the ways that air conditioners keep you cool in summer is by removing moisture from the air. You feel cooler in dry air, so in winter, what you need is the reverse. Use a humidifier to keep that warmth close to your skin and prevent chapping through the winter. You can ease winter coughs with a humidifier as well, as your sinuses won't be quite so dry.
   
   
4. Spacing Out 
   Space heaters are more efficient and safer than they've been in previous years. If you're going to spend most of your time in one room, why heat the whole house? Keep the heat low and use a space heater in the areas where you spend the most time. If your home has a fireplace, be aware that they don't quite work the same way. Much of the heat a fireplace produces goes up the chimney. They're great for toasting marshmallows, but not so good at keeping you toasty.
   
   
5. A Switch In Time
   Have you thought to lower the heat before you leave the house — about 10 minutes after you've driven away? A programmable thermostat will help keep heating costs under control by keeping an eye on the heating level for you. You can program the heat to come on just before you hop in the shower, and lower it as you leave for work. The consistency of heating levels will keep your heating bills more manageable. 

Heating bills are a season-bound cost, but paying for heating need not be. Contact your energy company for a billing option that spreads your payments out to a single average monthly amount. This makes budgeting for heating much easier, so you won't worry about sudden cold snaps driving up heating costs. 

If you have any questions about heating efficiency or keeping your home comfortable year-round, we won't freeze you out. Contact us today. 

If you're looking to surprise your friends and family with some truly unique Christmas gifts this year, don't look any further than you're own backyard. Stark County is home to several unique local businesses that offer great gifts for everyone on your list. Best of all, you'll be able to knock out your Christmas shopping while supporting our local economy at the same time. Our real estate agents love exploring area shops, so they pulled together a list of five stores where you can find great holiday gifts this year.

• Laura Of Pembroke - 3119 Whipple Ave. NW, Canton, OH 44718
  With an abundance of jewelry, clothing, and home furnishings, Laura of Pembroke is a great place to find great holiday gifts for the special women in your life. The store has great gifts that fit budgets of every size. If you don't feel like going out this year, the store offers convenient online shopping as well. Best of all, the shop is just a short drive away from these Canton homes for sale.
  
  
• The Birch Tree Furniture & Boutique - 5032 Tuscarawas St. W, Canton, OH 44708
  We're all spending a little bit more time at home this year, so there couldn't be a better time to consider home accessory gifts. The Birch Tree Furniture & Boutique is just the place to get furniture, lighting, artwork, rugs, and all the things you need to improve your home's aesthetics. The store is only open Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, so make sure to plan ahead. On your way home, be sure to take a look at these Massillon homes for sale.
  
  
• The Toys Time Forgot - 137 Cherry St. E, Canal Fulton, OH 44614
  Looking for some stocking stuffers? Nostalgic toys are a great idea. The Toys Time Forgot has all of your favorite baby boomer toys. With vintage action figures, dolls, and memorabilia from the 1950s through the 1980s, The Toys Time Forgot has been voted Ohio's best vintage toy store since 1998. The store is closed Sundays and Mondays, and it's conveniently located just around the corner from these Canal Fulton homes for sale.
  
  
• 2nd Hand Treasures - 4701 Eagle Cir. NW, North Canton, OH 44720
  2nd Hand Treasures is one of the area's most eclectic shops. This 8,000 square foot consignment shop, which is located near these North Canton homes for sale, has an abundance of upscale home furnishings, women's clothing, electronics, antiques, and even construction materials.
  
  
• Anderson's In The Village - 97 Canal St. W, Navarre, OH 44662
  If you're looking for some of the finest handcrafted soaps, candles, lotions, and bath products, Anderson's In The Village is definitely worth the stop. Located in Rochester Square, Anderson's isn't only a gift shop but also offers delicious coffee and baked goods. If you're in the area, you'll be sure to find some great stocking stuffers at Anderson's.

We love supporting our local businesses, especially during the holiday season. If you're looking for more tips or recommendations for local shopping, don't hesitate to contact us today!