Fall in Love with Your Dream Home: Tips for Finding the Perfect Match This Spring

Spring is the busiest time of year for real estate, and if you’re thinking about buying or selling, February is the perfect time to start prepping! Just like dating, finding (or selling) the right home takes a little strategy, patience, and a whole lot of heart.

Here’s how to get ready for the season of fresh starts and new beginnings.

For Buyers: Get Ready to Swipe Right on Your Dream Home

1. Get Pre-Approved – A pre-approval isn’t just a love letter to sellers—it’s your golden ticket to making strong offers in a competitive market.

2. Define Your Must-Haves & Deal Breakers – Just like in dating, knowing what you want (and what you don’t) will save you time and heartache.

3. Start Touring Now – The best homes go fast! Begin your search early so you’re ready to pounce when the right one comes along.

4. Work with an Expert – A great Realtor (like any of us at Root Realty) can help you find hidden gems, negotiate like a pro, and avoid heartbreak.

For Sellers: Set the Stage for a Love-at-First-Sight Sale

1. Declutter & Deep Clean – Buyers need to see themselves in your home, not last year’s holiday decorations.

2. Make Small Fixes – That leaky faucet or scuffed baseboard? Tackle those little projects now to maximize your home’s value.

3. Boost Curb Appeal – First impressions matter! A fresh welcome mat, trimmed landscaping, and a pop of color on the front door can work wonders.

4. Think Like a Buyer – Put yourself in a buyer’s shoes and consider what would make the home more attractive to you. Fresh paint, inviting scents, and well-staged rooms can make all the difference.

5. Price it Right – Overpricing can scare off buyers, while the right price attracts the right match quickly.

By taking action now, you’ll be ahead of the curve when spring fever hits the market. Whether you’re ready to buy or sell, Root Realty is here to help you find your perfect match. Let’s make this spring the season you fall in love with your next home!

Thinking about making a move? Let’s chat! Contact Root Realty today.

Home Organization Trends for 2025

As we step into a fresh new year, there’s no better time to give your home a little love and order. Whether you’re sprucing up your space for your own enjoyment or thinking about making it more appealing to future buyers, these 2025 home organization trends have you covered. At Root Realty, we know that a well-organized home not only gives peace of mind, and makes life easier but also helps create a lasting impression on potential buyers. Let’s dive in!

1. Sustainability Meets Storage

Eco-friendly is here to stay. This year, homeowners are embracing sustainable materials like bamboo, recycled wood, and biodegradable bins to organize their spaces. Stores like The Container Store, IKEA, and online retailers such as EarthHero or Etsy offer a variety of chic, eco-conscious options. Think glass jars for pantry staples, bamboo drawer organizers, or handcrafted baskets made from natural materials. Upgrading your pantry with these items not only reduces waste but also offers a polished, uniform look that buyers will love.

2. The Rise of Multi-Functional Spaces

With hybrid work and lifestyle trends still going strong, multi-functional rooms are more popular than ever. Invest in modular furniture that doubles as storage, like ottomans with hidden compartments or Murphy beds with built-in shelving. Retailers such as Wayfair, West Elm, and Overstock have excellent options to explore. Showcasing a room’s versatility can spark a buyer’s imagination and add perceived value to your home.

3. Minimalism with a Personal Touch

Minimalism continues to reign supreme, but with a 2025 twist: curated personality. Instead of stark, lifeless spaces, homeowners are blending functionality with sentimental decor. Organize bookshelves with color-coded books and a few personal trinkets, or arrange art supplies in chic bins from stores like Target or CB2. This balanced approach makes your home feel inviting while staying clutter-free.

4. Tech-Savvy Solutions

From smart closets to app-controlled storage systems, technology is revolutionizing home organization. Imagine a pantry that tells you when you’re out of cereal or a closet that recommends outfits based on the weather. Retailers like Wayfair, Best Buy, and Amazon carry smart home devices such as Wi-Fi-enabled storage trackers or automated pantry organizers. While these upgrades can be a splurge, they’re a game-changer for modern buyers who value convenience and innovation.

5. Focus on Entryway Efficiency

First impressions start at the door. Transform your entryway into a functional, stylish space with wall hooks, a sleek shoe rack, or a narrow console table with drawers. Check out stores like IKEA, HomeGoods, or Crate & Barrel for practical yet stylish solutions. Buyers appreciate a welcoming, organized entry that sets the tone for the rest of the home.

6. Color-Coordinated Closets

Color-coded closets are trending, and for good reason—they’re visually stunning and highly practical. Use matching hangers, separate clothes by category and color, and add a few decorative storage boxes to hide unsightly items. Stores like The Container Store, Bed Bath & Beyond, and Pottery Barn offer great closet organization products. An organized closet can give buyers the impression of abundant, manageable space.

7. Hidden Storage Gems

Clever storage solutions are key to maximizing space without clutter. Pull-out drawers under stairs, storage benches in dining areas, or wall-mounted bike racks in the garage are just a few ideas. Retailers like Wayfair, Overstock, and The Home Depot carry innovative storage solutions that fit seamlessly into your home’s design. Highlighting these unique features during a showing can set your home apart from the competition.

A Final Thought

Organizing your home isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about creating a space that feels functional and stress-free. And if selling your home is on your radar, thoughtful organization can make a world of difference in how potential buyers see your property. At Root Realty, we’re here to help you maximize your home’s appeal, whether you’re staying put or gearing up to sell. Ready to make your move? Let’s connect and turn your goals into reality.

Root Wrap-Up: Celebrating a Year of Community, Connection, and Growth

As the year comes to a close, we at Root Realty are taking a moment to reflect on the incredible journey we’ve shared with our team, customers, and community in 2024. Root Realty is more than just a boutique real estate brokerage; we’re a group of passionate, driven women dedicated to making a difference in Jacksonville. This year, we’ve had the privilege of hosting inspiring events, celebrating milestones, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. Here are some of our favorite moments from this year. 

The Run Home 5K

The Run Home 5K is one of our proudest traditions, combining our love for Jacksonville with

our commitment to giving back. Watching our team, their families, and the community come

together to cheer on runners was nothing short of magical. Every stride made during the race

supported Sulzbacher Center and Re-threaded, making the day not only about fitness but also

about kindness and impact. Seeing the smiles on everyone’s faces as they crossed the finish line reminded us why we LOVE hosting this event year after year.

Root Mag: From Vision to Reality

This year, we saw our new magazine, Root Mag, flourish into something truly special.

What began as a simple idea has grown into a valuable and fun publication that celebrates our

community. Launching the magazine brought us immense joy, and we’re thrilled to see how

much our readers enjoy it. With our 3rd edition arriving in January 2025, we can’t wait to keep

sharing stories and insights that reflect the vibrant spirit of Jacksonville.

Community Movie Nights

Gathering under the stars for our movie night at the park is a tradition we hold close to our

hearts. These evenings give families a chance to relax, connect, and enjoy a great film together.

This year’s highlight? Showing Coco, a beautiful movie that brought laughter, tears, and a sense

of togetherness to everyone in attendance.

Team Highlights

We believe that CONNECTION fuels COLLABORATION, and our team gatherings this year

have been a testament to that. From office meetings to training sessions, every moment spent

encouraging and catching up with one another has strengthened our bond.

We’ve also had so much fun at our team events, which included a Pizza + Painting Party, a

Customer Appreciation Day at Myrtle Avenue Brewing, and our spooky Murray Hill-O-

Ween celebration. Let’s not forget our team’s Clothing Swap Event, our fabulous Holiday

Party, and two amazing photo shoots. Each of these events brought us closer together and

reminded us how lucky we are to be in each other’s lives and to be a part of such an inspiring team.

Looking Ahead

As we look forward to 2025, we’re filled with gratitude and excitement. There’s so much to be

proud of - from the memories we’ve made to the impact we’ve had on our community. Root

Realty is more than a brokerage; it’s a family, and we’re so thankful to have shared this year

with all of you.

Here’s to another year of growth, connection, and making Jacksonville an even better place to

call home. Stay tuned for more exciting updates, including the launch of Root Mag’s third

edition in January!

Thank you for being part of our journey. We can’t wait to see what the future holds for Root

Realty and our incredible community.

Warmly,

The Root Realty Team

Jacksonville Local Small Businesses to Support this Holiday Season

As the holiday season sweeps into full swing, there’s no better time to show love to our amazing local businesses here in Jacksonville. Whether you’re shopping for the perfect

gift, indulging in a festive night out, or treating yourself to some well-deserved pampering, these local gems have you covered.

Let’s make it a season of joy andgoodwill by supporting these incredible small businesses.

1. 1748 Bakehouse- Historic Springfield

Walk into 1748 Bakehouse and you’ll be greeted by the comforting aroma of fresh-baked goodness. Beyond their delicious pastries and breads, they’ve got adorable gifts

perfect for holiday giving. Think jams, local treats, and other delightful goodies to stuff stockings or bring as host gifts. Stop by and follow them for a peek at their latest

creations: @1748bakehouse.

2. Spruce Jax- Murray Hill

Shopping at Spruce Jax is like entering a cozy little holiday wonderland. They’ve got lush plants for the green thumb in your life, plus wine, coffee, and gift cards that

make the perfect gifts for just about anyone. Pro tip: a plant and a bottle of wine make a fantastic duo for gifting! Check them out here: @sprucejax.

3. Faith Jewelers- Murray Hill

A sparkle for the season! Faith Jewelers is a second-generation, family-owned jewelry store where you’ll find everything from timeless heirlooms to modern designs.

Located in charming Murray Hill, it’s the perfect spot to find something meaningful (and shiny) for someone you love. See their sparkling collection on Instagram:

@faithjewelers.

4. Momni- Murray Hill

For the fashionista in your life, Momni is a treasure trove of chic styles. But what sets them apart is their Level Expert alterations—ensuring every piece fits just right!

Whether you’re picking out a standout piece for a party or need a quick alteration for that holiday dress, Momni has you covered. Check out their fabulous finds at

@momnijax.

5. Othello in Springfield- Historic Springfield

If date night is on the agenda, Othello is the place to go. This cozy spot is perfect for a romantic evening, offering dishes like their house-made pasta, rich risottos, and

delectable seafood plates. Treat yourself to their burrata appetizer or indulge in their signature veal ragu. Get a taste of their menu here: @othellospringfield.

6. Salumeria 104- Atlantic Beach

Bring a slice of Italy to your holiday season at Salumeria 104, a charming neighborhood trattoria. Their menu is filled with Italian classics like handmade pasta,

authentic charcuterie, and perfectly prepared seafood. It’s the perfect spot for an intimate holiday dinner with friends or family. Check out their delicious offerings:

@salumeria104jax.

7. Catullo’s Italian- Baymeadows

Hidden between a Walmart and a dry cleaner, this small, unassuming gem is worth the wait (and trust us, there’s usually a line!). Catullo’s Italian serves up rich, hearty

dishes like their velvety carbonara or indulgent osso buco. Their cozy atmosphere makes it feel like dining at Nonna’s table. Follow their culinary adventures:

@catullos_italian.

8. Emy Beauty Spa- Beach Boulevard, but they will be opening a new location in January 2025!

Treat yourself or someone special to a little R&R this holiday season at Emy Beauty Spa. This woman-owned beauty haven offers facials, waxing, and advanced

skincare treatments (all with a bilingual touch—Se habla español!). Give the gift of self-care or make it a spa day for yourself. Peek into their beauty offerings at

@emybeautyspa.

This season let’s make a difference by supporting the businesses that make Jacksonville such a unique and vibrant community. Each purchase helps families,

strengthens our economy, and keeps the heart of our city beating strong. Happy Holidays and happy shopping!

5 Benefits of a Buyer-Broker Agreement: Why It Matters to YOU!

As of now, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) has updated its guidelines,
making it a requirement for homebuyers to sign a buyer-broker agreement. But what
exactly does that mean, and more importantly, how does it benefit *you* as a buyer?

Don’t worry, I’ll break it all down in this post and show you why this agreement is
actually a great tool for your home-buying journey. I know paperwork isn’t anyone’s idea of a good time. But trust me, this is one of those forms that you’ll want to have on your side. 

Let’s explore the top five benefits of signing a buyer-broker agreement.

1. Clarity and Transparency
Think of the buyer-broker agreement as the roadmap for your home-buying adventure. It clearly outlines the services your broker will provide, their obligations to you, and what you can expect in terms of communication and support. No more guesswork or misunderstandings about who’s doing what! This agreement makes sure everyone’s on the same page from day one. It’s like having GPS for your real estate journey—because who wants to go on a road trip without directions?

2. Expert Guidance and Advocacy
When you sign a buyer-broker agreement, you get a dedicated advocate in your
corner—someone whose job is to represent YOUR best interests. Your broker is there to negotiate on your behalf, help you navigate the complexities of contracts, and provide valuable insights into the local market like where to find the best taco trucks or coffee shops in Jacksonville ;) -- and of course, the local neighborhood markets. With this agreement, your broker is committed to working hard for YOU, ensuring you find the right home at the best price.

3. Access to More Listings
The agreement allows your broker to tap into a wider pool of potential listings, including off-market properties that might not be available on popular real estate websites. Think of it as getting VIP access to the hottest home deals in town. Plus, you can rest easy knowing that your broker is doing their best to find hidden gems that meet your specific criteria—no need to spend hours scrolling through online listings.

4. Saves You Time and Money
Your time is valuable, and a buyer-broker agreement helps make the most of it. By
working with a dedicated broker, you’ll have a professional sifting through listings,
scheduling showings, and handling the nitty-gritty details. This means you can focus on the fun parts—like imagining where your new couch will go. And since your broker is focused on finding homes that meet your needs and budget, you’ll avoid wasting time on properties that don’t fit.

5. Peace of Mind Throughout the Process
Buying a home can be one of the biggest financial decisions of your life, and it can be a little nerve-wracking at times (okay, a lot). But with a signed buyer-broker agreement, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that a knowledgeable professional has your back throughout the process. From the initial search to closing the deal, your agent is there to answer questions, handle negotiations, and smooth out any bumps along the way.

Ready to Start Your Home-Buying Journey?
At Root Realty, we’re here to make sure your experience is as seamless and stress-free as possible. The buyer-broker agreement is just one way we can ensure top-notch service and personalized support for every customer. If you have any questions or want to get started, reach out to us—we’d love to help you find your dream home here in Jacksonville!

7 Ways to Make it to Year 7 as a Small Business Owner

We are celebrating the 7th anniversary of Root Realty today and I can't help but reflect on how far I have come in the past 7 years as a person, and business owner. I am so proud of everything Root has accomplished here in Jacksonville, and I am beyond excited to see what comes next for us. Today also has me thinking about all of the lessons I have learned along the way, so I thought I would share 7 tips for my fellow small business owners to make it to year 7!

Starting and running a small business is no small feat. It requires dedication, hard work, and a strategic approach to ensure your business not only survives but thrives!

If you're looking to make it to year seven and beyond in business, here are 7 things that helped me in my first 7 years. I hope they can help guide you on your business journey!

1. Identify Your Strengths and Weaknesses from the Very Beginning

Understanding your strengths and weaknesses is the cornerstone of building a successful business. Take the time to conduct a thorough self-assessment and be honest with yourself about where you excel and where you may need assistance. This self-awareness will help you make informed decisions about which aspects of your business you should handle personally and which you should delegate to other members of your team!

2. Leverage Where Needed as You Cannot Do It All!

It's a common misconception that as a small business owner, you have to do everything yourself. In reality, trying to handle every task can lead to burnout. Instead, leverage the expertise of others when needed. This could mean hiring employees or outsourcing tasks like accounting, marketing, or IT. By delegating, you free up your time to focus on what you do best and allow your business to grow more quickly and efficiently.

3. Trust Your Gut. ALWAYS.

Intuition plays a significant role in decision-making for small business owners. While data and analysis are crucial, sometimes your gut feeling can lead you in the right direction when facing tough choices. Trust your instincts, but also be willing to learn from your mistakes and adapt your decision-making process over time.

4. Find Your Niche and Lean All In

One of the keys to success in a competitive market is finding your niche and becoming an expert in it. Understand your target audience, their needs, and how your product or service can fulfill those needs better than anyone else. Once you've found your niche, focus your efforts and resources on serving it exceptionally well. Specialization can set you apart from competitors and create a loyal customer base.

5. Hire the Best Talent + Quality - Never Compromise This
Your team is the backbone of your business, so hiring the best talent is non-negotiable. Look for individuals who not only have the necessary skills but also align with your company's values and culture. High-quality employees will contribute to your business's growth and reputation, so never compromise on finding the right people for the job!

6. Automate as Much as Possible

In today's digital age, automation can significantly streamline your business processes and save you valuable time and resources. Look for opportunities to automate repetitive tasks, such as emails, inventory management, or customer support. By doing so, you'll reduce the risk of errors and free up more time to focus on strategic initiatives to grow your business and giving your clients the best possible service!

7. Leave Positive Impressions Everywhere
Your reputation is everything in business, and positive impressions can lead to loyal customers and valuable referrals. Always strive to provide exceptional customer service, exceed expectations, and go the extra mile. Additionally, maintain a strong online presence through social media, online reviews, and a professional website. Every interaction, whether in person or online, is an opportunity to leave a positive impression.

In conclusion, making it to year seven as a small business owner requires a combination of self-awareness, strategic decision-making, and a commitment to excellence. By identifying your strengths and weaknesses, delegating when necessary, trusting your instincts, specializing in your niche, hiring top talent, embracing automation, and leaving positive impressions, you can increase your chances of not only surviving but thriving in the competitive world of small business. Keep these tips in mind as you navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, and here's to many more successful years in business!

Rooting For You,

MaryAnne Rodriguez