Shawn Senecal's Residential Real Estate Tips | Champion Homes in Kissimmee | Realtor® Blog

The time has come again to adjust our clocks as we approach the much-anticipated daylight saving time change on November 5, 2023.  While many of us eagerly look forward to that extra hour of sleep or the promise of longer daylight hours, it's important to understand the history and rationale behind daylight saving time (DST). The History of Daylight Saving Time Daylight saving time was first introduced during World War I as a way to conserve energy.  The concept of shifting the clocks forward in the spring and back in the fall was initially proposed by Benjamin Franklin in 1784, but wasn't widely adopted until the 20th century. The primary idea behind DST is to make better use of natural daylight during the longer days of the year.  By moving the clocks forward in the spring, people are encouraged to wake up and utilize daylight more efficiently, theoretically reducing the need for artificial lighting and energy consumption. The United States officially adopted daylight s...

Every year, as October comes around, the world dons its most macabre masks and indulges in a world of spooky spectacles and sugary delights.  But, do you know the haunting history that lurks behind the masquerades and trick-or-treating?  Join me as I venture deeper into the depths of time to unearth the spine-tingling saga of  Halloween .  From its ancient Celtic origins to its current incarnation as a commercial extravaganza, Halloween's history is as enigmatic as the darkest corners of a  haunted house . Celtic Samhain:  When Spirits Roamed the Earth Our journey commences over two millenia ago with the Celts, who populated parts of what we now know as Ireland, the United Kingdom, and northern France.  For them, the turning point of the year was marked by  Samhain , a festival that celebrated the culmination of the harvest season and the descent into winter.  Occurring on November 1st, Samhain was a time of gratitude for the bounteous harves...

Choosing new construction over a resale property can offer several advantages for buyers.  Firstly, new construction homes often come with modern amenities and energy-efficient features, reducing long-term maintenance costs and enhancing the overall living experience.  Buyers can also have a say in customization, selecting finishes, layouts, and even sometimes the lot location, to align the home with their preferences and needs.  Furthermore, new construction homes typically come with warranties, providing peace of mind and protection against repairs. However, it's crucial for buyers to use a REALTOR® when venturing into the world of new construction.  REALTORS® bring valuable expertise to the table, helping buyers navigate the complex process of purchasing a newly built home.  They can guide buyers through negotiations, ensuring they receive the best possible terms and pricing.  REALTORS® can also provide insight into the local real estate market, helping...