June 2021

How To Trade In Your Phone Have you ever traded in a phone? Most carriers have their own programs that you can learn about on their website or through your account. However, there are other options out there too, offering cash for both Android and Apple devices. Here’s how to get the best deal: • Shop around. Don’t just take your carrier’s word for it, be sure to check multiple providers to find the best offer. Try these sites after checking with your provider: GadgetGone.com, ItsWorthMore.com . • Before cashing in, fix that broken screen . Some carriers will reduce the price for the phone to next to nothing if it has a broken screen. However, most screen fixes are quick, can be cheap, and will increase the value of your phone. Do your research. • Delete. Delete. Delete . Be sure to delete all personal information after you have backed up your phone. Once you’ve saved your data, restore the phone to its factory settings to avoid any potential fraud or your data getting into the wrong hands. Did You Know? The differences between today's frenetic housing market and last year's frozen market are quite significant. Realtor.com's data for last April shows that while home prices never fell, they were flat this time last year. That's the main reason we’re seeing home prices register such large gains compared to that time — 17 percent over last year. Relief is not yet on the horizon for buyers as inventory continues to shrink. Lead-Based Paint We know lead can be dangerous and could be present if you have an older home. But how do you determine if there is lead present, and what should you watch for? In short : homes built before 1978, when the federal government banned its use, and antique painted furniture might have lead paint. Here’s how to spot lead paint and what to do: Why you should be concerned: Lead is a toxin and can cause brain and organ damage. Assume paint on antiques or old homes contains lead until tested. • Lead paint often cracks in an “alligator skin” pattern. • Chipped or flaking painted surfaces could be dangerous. You can buy lead test swabs at hardware stores which will tell you in a few minutes if lead is present. What to do: • Do not allow kids or pregnant women to come into contact with the item or painted surfaces if the lead test is positive. • Ensure that painted areas are kept in good condition and be extra careful to clean up any paint chips. • Wash hands thoroughly when touching or working with vintage items. • Talk to a company that specializes in lead paint removal/remediation.

Brain Teaser… I have no voice, but I am able to speak to you. I share all of the world’s events and people’s intimate thoughts. I have a spine, but I am not human. What am I? (See page 4 for the answer.) What’s My Home Worth? If you want to know your home’s current value, I will gladly conduct a Maximum Value Home Audit . Request this “no charge” in-depth home value analysis by calling me at: 805-701-8410 . disorders, and everyone feels anxious sometimes. Try these tips to help regain control of your emotions: • Breathe deep. Focus on inhaling and exhaling and clear your mind of anything else. • Check the threes. Find three things around you, and describe them to yourself. Move three different body parts. Name three sounds you can hear. Take a quick walk. Even 5 minutes around the block can help you center. Carry lavender oil. Essential oils can be spread on wrists or temples, and the scent is known to be soothing. • • refrigerator that smells from time-to- time, but how do you get rid of the lingering odor? Simple: place a cup of baking soda in the refrigerator to soak up smells. Replace once a month for an odor free fridge! Free Online Courses These websites provide free online courses in popular topics. www.edx.org – Free online courses by Harvard, MIT, and more leading institutions. www.khanacademy.org – Pick topics from computer programming, to science, or medicine on this free educational website. www.coursera.com – This site partners with universities and companies worldwide to provide free courses. Feel Calmer In Seconds Many people suffer from anxiety What IS That Smell? We’ve all left something in the

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