Dani Hallsell | Real Estate Blog

  In a highly unconventional political move, former President Donald Trump is reportedly planning to announce a “shadow” Federal Reserve chair —well before current Fed Chair Jerome Powell’s term expires in May 2026. But what does that actually mean, and why should real estate professionals and homeowners care? Let’s break it down. 🔍 What Is a “Shadow Fed Chair”? Rather than wait for Powell’s term to expire, Trump’s team is expected to publicly promote a preferred successor as early as this fall . This individual—lacking any official authority—would serve as a symbolic future leader of the Fed , with the goal of influencing market expectations now, not later. This approach is being labeled as the appointment of a “shadow Fed chair” —someone who signals a future shift in monetary policy, potentially toward lower interest rates . 🧠 The Strategy Behind It Forward guidance : Even though Powell is still in charge, publicly signaling a new direction can shift how investors, lenders, an...

  Some of you may remember the article I shared last December, where I talked about finding mice in the basement—only to later discover our attic had become a full-service Bat B&B . While that was quite the surprise, it also gave me the opportunity to work with two outstanding local companies I want to spotlight today. ✨ Pestway Pest Control When we realized we had some uninvited guests , we called Pestway. Their team was professional, knowledgeable, and incredibly thorough. They explained that bats are a protected species under Michigan law and cannot be harmed or removed during their active season (typically May through August) when they are raising their young. So what did the process involve? Bat & Wildlife Remediation includes: Inspection – Identifying all entry and exit points used by bats or other pests. Exclusion – Installing one-way devices that allow bats to exit safely but not return. Waiting period – After bats safely leave (often in the fall), sealing off a...

  Thinking about moving? ✨ Downsizing and decluttering can lead to a simpler, more secure, and lower-stress lifestyle—but it can also feel a bit overwhelming at first. Whether you're moving to a cozier space, retiring, or just ready to lighten the load, here are 10 helpful tips to make the process smoother and more manageable: 1. ⏳ Start Early Successful downsizing takes more time than you might expect. Give yourself at least 2–3 months to start sorting and planning before the move. Early prep = less stress! 2. 📝 Make a Plan Create a detailed downsizing plan. Breaking it down into manageable steps can help you feel more in control and reduce anxiety. 3. 📅 Set a Timeline Your plan should include a realistic timeline . List tasks in the order they need to happen and work backward from moving day. If you're moving far, allow extra time! 4. 📐 Use the New Floor Plan Try sketching or obtaining a floor plan of your new space . Knowing room sizes and layouts will help you decide wh...

  If you’re searching for a store that feels more like family than farmland, look no further than Agricole Farm Stop —my all-time favorite place to shop right here in Chelsea. Nestled at 118 North Main Street, this bustling farmers‑market‑meets‑café is a four-season indoor haven where community and fresh food unite. 🌱 A Community-Driven Mission Open year-round since June 2019, Agricole was inspired by Ann Arbor’s Argus Farm Stop but quickly grew its own roots in Chelsea’s community fabric. It operates on a 75/25 consignment model—farmers keep 75% of the sale price, making this model beneficial for small farms and artisans. In 2023 alone, over $5.8 million flowed back into local producer coffers. 🛒 What You’ll Find Agricole curates a bounty of regionally produced goods: Locally grown produce: seasonal fruits, veggies, dairy, & pasture‑raised meats Artisan pantry staples: from hand‑rolled pasta to vegan meats and herbal soaps Prepared foods & bakery delights: café-style...

  Don’t pour money down the drain—try these simple solutions first. Your kitchen sink is one of the hardest-working spots in your home. So when it suddenly clogs, it can throw your whole routine into chaos. Before you reach for the phone and call a plumber, try these 8 DIY tricks to get the water—and your kitchen—flowing again. 1. 🗑️ Garbage In, Garbage Not Out? Start with your garbage disposal. Run it for a minute or two while letting hot water flow. Still clogged? Turn it off and inspect it to make sure it’s working properly. If it’s overheated and shut off automatically, look for the reset switch—usually on the bottom or side of the unit. 2. 🪠 Take the Plunge If the disposal’s clear but the sink still won’t drain, grab a sink plunger (they’re smaller than the toilet kind). For double sinks, block the other drain with a stopper. Add enough water to cover the plunger bell and give it a few strong pumps. If you hear suction, you’re making progress. Once it’s clear, run warm water...