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        <description>Realty Executives Cooper Spransy, Madison</description>
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	<title>Homeowner &#8211; Relish Realty</title>
	<link>https://relishrealty.com</link>
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                    <item>
                <title>Why Some Homes Sell in Days and Others Sit for Months</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/why-some-homes-sell-in-days-and-others-sit-for-months/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/why-some-homes-sell-in-days-and-others-sit-for-months/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[This is one of the biggest questions sellers ask. Why did that house down the street sell right away while...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>Buying a Home Starts Before House Hunting</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/buying-a-home-starts-before-house-hunting/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/buying-a-home-starts-before-house-hunting/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Home For Sale Real Estate Sign in Front of New House. This is where a lot of buyers get themselves...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>Why Waiting for the Market to Settle Usually Costs More</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/why-waiting-for-the-market-to-settle-usually-costs-more/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/why-waiting-for-the-market-to-settle-usually-costs-more/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Happy family on the floor with cardboard boxes moving in their new home &#8211; isolated It sounds like a smart...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title>Presentation Beats Renovation: Why Clean, Staged, and Well-Positioned Homes Win</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/presentation-beats-renovation-why-clean-staged-and-well-positioned-homes-win/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/presentation-beats-renovation-why-clean-staged-and-well-positioned-homes-win/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Detroit, Michigan -USA- November 10, 2022: new home has been staged and is ready for sale Many homeowners preparing to...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title>The New Commute in Real Estate: How Remote Work Changed What “Location” Means</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/the-new-commute-in-real-estate-how-remote-work-changed-what-location-means/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/the-new-commute-in-real-estate-how-remote-work-changed-what-location-means/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[For decades, one phrase defined real estate decisions. Location, location, location. Traditionally that meant one thing. How close a home...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
                                                    <media:content medium="image" url="https://images.easyagentpro.com/images-by-id?id=c74fac9912875c19f822ea1ac53b02387256bbf659c91cf27df0f644ab630d974a957b42.jpg&#038;w=800"></media:content>
                                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title>Navigate a Changing Real Estate Market: The Market Isn’t Good or Bad — It’s Different</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/navigate-a-changing-real-estate-market-the-market-isnt-good-or-bad-its-different/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/navigate-a-changing-real-estate-market-the-market-isnt-good-or-bad-its-different/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Every year someone asks the same question. “Is this a good market or a bad market?” The truth is, the...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>The Right Order to Make Home Decisions</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/the-right-order-to-make-home-decisions/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/the-right-order-to-make-home-decisions/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Homeownership comes with choices. Renovate the kitchen. Turn the property into a rental. Refinance the mortgage. Sell and move on....]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>The 8 Seconds You’ll Love a Home</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/the-8-seconds-youll-love-a-home/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.eapsites.com/real-estate-blog/the-8-seconds-youll-love-a-home/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Find the home you love in 8 seconds you know When buyers walk into a property for the first time,...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>How to Prepare Emotionally to Sell Your Home</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/how-to-prepare-emotionally-to-sell-your-home/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/how-to-prepare-emotionally-to-sell-your-home/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Most people focus on pricing, repairs, and timing when they decide to sell. But one of the most overlooked parts...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>How Life Stages and Real Estate Decisions Matter More Than the Economy</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/how-life-stages-and-real-estate-decisions-matter-more-than-the-economy/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/how-life-stages-and-real-estate-decisions-matter-more-than-the-economy/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Happy multi-generation family portrait in the countryside When people talk about buying or selling a home, they often focus on...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>Renovate or Leave It Alone? How to Decide What Actually Pays Off</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/renovate-or-leave-it-alone-how-to-decide-what-actually-pays-off/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.eapsites.com/real-estate-blog/renovate-or-leave-it-alone-how-to-decide-what-actually-pays-off/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[If you are preparing to sell, one of the first questions you will face is simple but expensive: renovate or...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>Buyer-broker agreements: what buyers need to know now before touring</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/buyer-broker-agreements-what-buyers-need-to-know-now-before-touring/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.eapsites.com/real-estate-blog/buyer-broker-agreements-what-buyers-need-to-know-now-before-touring/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[If you are planning to buy a home, you may notice something different the first time you ask an agent...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                <title>Negotiation power is back for buyers: how to ask for credits, repairs, rate buydowns, and timelines without killing the deal</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/negotiation-power-is-back-for-buyers-how-to-ask-for-credits-repairs-rate-buydowns-and-timelines-without-killing-the-deal/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.eapsites.com/real-estate-blog/negotiation-power-is-back-for-buyers-how-to-ask-for-credits-repairs-rate-buydowns-and-timelines-without-killing-the-deal/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[For the past few years, many buyers felt like they had one job: compete. Offers were rushed, contingencies were trimmed,...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title>The Hidden Costs of Waiting to Buy (That No One Talks About)</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/the-hidden-costs-of-waiting-to-buy-that-no-one-talks-about/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/the-hidden-costs-of-waiting-to-buy-that-no-one-talks-about/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Sad man sitting on sofa home, holding tablet PC, making facepalm gesture. Frustration and disappointment on face palpable, as if...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>Make Smart Home Decisions. Before you renovate, rent, refinance or sell. Read this!</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/make-smart-home-decisions-before-you-renovate-rent-refinance-or-sell-read-this/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/make-smart-home-decisions-before-you-renovate-rent-refinance-or-sell-read-this/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Owning a home comes with choices. Renovate. Rent it out. Refinance. Sell and move on. Each option sounds reasonable on...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                <title>2026 Housing Market Trends for Buyers and Sellers: What You Need to Know</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/2026-housing-market-trends-for-buyers-and-sellers-what-you-need-to-know/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/2026-housing-market-trends-for-buyers-and-sellers-what-you-need-to-know/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[As we settle into 2026, the housing market continues to evolve in ways that directly impact home buyers and sellers....]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>Homesteading Homes: The Next Big Trend for Home Buyers and Sellers</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/homesteading-homes-the-next-big-trend-for-home-buyers-and-sellers/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/homesteading-homes-the-next-big-trend-for-home-buyers-and-sellers/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[In today’s shifting real estate market, many home buyers and sellers are asking: Are homesteading homes the next big trend?...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title>Why Real Estate Timing Matters More Than Waiting for Things to Settle</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/why-real-estate-timing-matters-more-than-waiting-for-things-to-settle/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/why-real-estate-timing-matters-more-than-waiting-for-things-to-settle/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[&nbsp; Every year there is a reason people hesitate to buy or sell a home. Interest rates feel uncertain. Inventory...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title>Selling a Home in 2026: Why Presentation and Positioning Matter More Than Ever</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/selling-a-home-in-2026-why-presentation-and-positioning-matter-more-than-ever/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/selling-a-home-in-2026-why-presentation-and-positioning-matter-more-than-ever/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[&nbsp; The process of selling a home in 2026 looks very different than it did even a few years ago....]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>High Interest Rate Home Buying: How Buyers and Sellers Can Win in Today’s Market</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/high-interest-rate-home-buying-how-buyers-and-sellers-can-win-in-todays-market/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.eapsites.com/real-estate-blog/high-interest-rate-home-buying-how-buyers-and-sellers-can-win-in-todays-market/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[The rules of buying and selling homes have changed. Interest rates remain elevated, mortgage costs are rising, and deals that...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>Real Estate Revitalization Opportunities: How Abandoned Cities Are Becoming Prime Markets for Home Buyers, Sellers, and Investors</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/real-estate-revitalization-opportunities-how-abandoned-cities-are-becoming-prime-markets-for-home-buyers-sellers-and-investors/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/real-estate-revitalization-opportunities-how-abandoned-cities-are-becoming-prime-markets-for-home-buyers-sellers-and-investors/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Entire towns across the United States and Europe once sat empty. Factories closed, industries relocated, and populations steadily declined. For...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                <title>Niche Real Estate Opportunities for Buyers and Sellers: How Life Transitions Are Shaping the Market</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/niche-real-estate-opportunities-for-buyers-and-sellers-how-life-transitions-are-shaping-the-market/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/niche-real-estate-opportunities-for-buyers-and-sellers-how-life-transitions-are-shaping-the-market/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[The housing market is evolving, and opportunities now exist beyond the typical listings. While traditional properties dominate online searches, niche...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
                                                    <media:content medium="image" url="https://images.easyagentpro.com/images-by-id?id=b30e0fd15ad65d58e7bfdff1bca3d59e261eb49a79c74ca311b0fd741bbbfd27553f8f88.png&#038;w=800"></media:content>
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                <title>Downsizing Homes for Buyers and Sellers: Smart Tips for a Smooth Transition</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/downsizing-homes-for-buyers-and-sellers-smart-tips-for-a-smooth-transition/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/downsizing-homes-for-buyers-and-sellers-smart-tips-for-a-smooth-transition/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Downsizing has become one of the most significant trends in today’s housing market. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to simplify,...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                <title>Why Every Buyer and Seller Needs a Home Walkthrough Checklist in Today’s Market</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/why-every-buyer-and-seller-needs-a-home-walkthrough-checklist-in-todays-market/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.eapsites.com/real-estate-blog/why-every-buyer-and-seller-needs-a-home-walkthrough-checklist-in-todays-market/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Buying or selling a home today means being more cautious and informed than ever. Repair costs are rising, labor is...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>The Big Brokerage Shuffle: How Brokerage Consolidation Impacts Agents and Clients</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/the-big-brokerage-shuffle-how-brokerage-consolidation-impacts-agents-and-clients/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.eapsites.com/real-estate-blog/the-big-brokerage-shuffle-how-brokerage-consolidation-impacts-agents-and-clients/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[The real estate industry is in the middle of a major reshuffle, and it is not happening quietly. Brokerage consolidation...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
                                                    <media:content medium="image" url="https://images.easyagentpro.com/images-by-id?id=7d620a82166790da52cc6413f4beb4f885e958d2e5c25bd30424106b8c02ca4b2b568c00.jpg&#038;w=800"></media:content>
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                <title>The Lifetime Client Strategy for Real Estate Agents: Staying Top-of-Mind After the Sale</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/the-lifetime-client-strategy-for-real-estate-agents-staying-top-of-mind-after-the-sale/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.eapsites.com/real-estate-blog/the-lifetime-client-strategy-for-real-estate-agents-staying-top-of-mind-after-the-sale/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[In real estate, closing a transaction isn’t the end of the relationship; it’s the beginning of a long-term opportunity. That’s...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>The Real Marketing Problem: Siloed Thinking in Real Estate Agents</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/the-real-marketing-problem-siloed-thinking-in-real-estate-agents/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/the-real-marketing-problem-siloed-thinking-in-real-estate-agents/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[In today’s fast-moving real estate market, one of the biggest obstacles to effective marketing is Siloed Thinking. Many agencies treat...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                <title>Buying a New Build? New Construction Home Trends Shaping Today’s Market</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/buying-a-new-build-new-construction-home-trends-shaping-todays-market/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/buying-a-new-build-new-construction-home-trends-shaping-todays-market/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Buying a newly built home looks very different than it did just a few years ago. Shifts in interest rates,...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                <title>Why Digital Marketing for Real Estate Agents Is Here to Stay and Why 3D Thinking Matters</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/why-digital-marketing-for-real-estate-agents-is-here-to-stay-and-why-3d-thinking-matters/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/why-digital-marketing-for-real-estate-agents-is-here-to-stay-and-why-3d-thinking-matters/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[In today’s real estate market, understanding digital marketing for real estate agents is no longer optional; it’s essential for staying...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                <title>Strategies for Real Estate Investing in a High Rate, High Insurance Market</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/strategies-for-real-estate-investing-in-a-high-rate-high-insurance-market/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.eapsites.com/real-estate-blog/strategies-for-real-estate-investing-in-a-high-rate-high-insurance-market/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Focus on Properties with Strong Cash Flow Potential In a high cost environment, cash flow becomes more important than ever....]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                <title>Holiday Curb Appeal Tips to Wow Buyers This Winter</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/holiday-curb-appeal-tips-to-wow-buyers-this-winter/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.eapsites.com/real-estate-blog/holiday-curb-appeal-tips-to-wow-buyers-this-winter/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Winter may be a slower season for listings, but it can be a powerful opportunity for real estate agents who...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>Cash Is King: Navigating a Housing Market Dominated by Cash Buyers</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/cash-is-king-navigating-a-housing-market-dominated-by-cash-buyers/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.eapsites.com/real-estate-blog/cash-is-king-navigating-a-housing-market-dominated-by-cash-buyers/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[When cash buyers are a major force in housing markets, sellers and agents feel it, and so should anyone tracking...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>Why High Mortgage Rates Aren’t Keeping Buyers Away (Yet)</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/why-high-mortgage-rates-arent-keeping-buyers-away-yet/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.eapsites.com/real-estate-blog/why-high-mortgage-rates-arent-keeping-buyers-away-yet/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Whether you are a real estate agent, investor, or prospective homebuyer, you have probably noticed what feels like a standstill...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>Holiday Home Staging: What to Add and What to Avoid</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/holiday-home-staging-what-to-add-and-what-to-avoid/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/holiday-home-staging-what-to-add-and-what-to-avoid/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[If you are listing your home this season, well-thought-out holiday home staging can make all the difference. Using holiday home...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>Selling Your Home: How Higher Capital Gains Can Save You Thousands</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/selling-your-home-how-higher-capital-gains-can-save-you-thousands/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/selling-your-home-how-higher-capital-gains-can-save-you-thousands/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[If you&#8217;re thinking about selling your home, understanding how higher capital gains work could actually save you thousands, not just...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>How to Make a Small Space Feel Bigger During the Holidays</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/how-to-make-a-small-space-feel-bigger-during-the-holidays/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.eapsites.com/real-estate-blog/how-to-make-a-small-space-feel-bigger-during-the-holidays/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Getting cozy for the holidays can feel like a challenge when you’re working with limited square footage. But with smart...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>The True Cost of Buying a Home: What Buyers Forget to Budget For</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/the-true-cost-of-buying-a-home-what-buyers-forget-to-budget-for/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/the-true-cost-of-buying-a-home-what-buyers-forget-to-budget-for/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Introduction When you&#8217;re focused on saving up for a down payment, the true cost of buying a home can feel...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>How to Get Your Offer Accepted in a Competitive Market</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/how-to-get-your-offer-accepted-in-a-competitive-market/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/how-to-get-your-offer-accepted-in-a-competitive-market/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[In today’s fast-moving real estate environment, knowing how to get your offer accepted in a competitive market is more important...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>Real Estate Tax Tips for Sellers and Investors</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/real-estate-tax-tips-for-sellers-and-investors/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/real-estate-tax-tips-for-sellers-and-investors/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Introduction If you are preparing to sell property or grow your portfolio in 2026, mastering the most effective real estate...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title>What to Expect During the Home Appraisal Process</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/what-to-expect-during-the-home-appraisal-process/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.eapsites.com/real-estate-blog/what-to-expect-during-the-home-appraisal-process/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[When you’re preparing to buy or sell a home, understanding the home appraisal process becomes essential. Whether you’re a first-time...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>Home Buying Mistakes to Avoid in Today’s Market</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/home-buying-mistakes-to-avoid-in-todays-market/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.eapsites.com/real-estate-blog/home-buying-mistakes-to-avoid-in-todays-market/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Introduction In a real estate climate where conditions are shifting rapidly, understanding how to navigate the home-buying process is more...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>Getting Your Home Ready for Winter: What Every Homeowner Should Do</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/getting-your-home-ready-for-winter-what-every-homeowner-should-do/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/getting-your-home-ready-for-winter-what-every-homeowner-should-do/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Winter is just around the corner, and preparing your house can make a big difference in comfort, safety, and costs....]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>Home Inspection Tips Every Buyer and Seller Should Know</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/home-inspection-tips-every-buyer-and-seller-should-know/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.eapsites.com/real-estate-blog/home-inspection-tips-every-buyer-and-seller-should-know/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[When you’re navigating today’s real estate market, a thorough home inspection is more important than ever. Whether you’re buying or...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title>Using Home Equity to Move Up: Smart Strategies for Sellers</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/using-home-equity-to-move-up-smart-strategies-for-sellers/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/using-home-equity-to-move-up-smart-strategies-for-sellers/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Looking to leverage your equity and step into a new home? The strategy of using home equity to move up...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>Best Time to Sell a House: Should You List Before the Holidays or Wait for Spring?</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/best-time-to-sell-a-house-should-you-list-before-the-holidays-or-wait-for-spring/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.eapsites.com/real-estate-blog/best-time-to-sell-a-house-should-you-list-before-the-holidays-or-wait-for-spring/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[If you’re trying to decide when is the best time to sell a house, you’re not alone. Timing matters, and...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>How Rising Interest Rates Affect Your Monthly Payment and What Buyers Can Still Do to Lower It</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/how-rising-interest-rates-affect-your-monthly-payment-and-what-buyers-can-still-do-to-lower-it/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/how-rising-interest-rates-affect-your-monthly-payment-and-what-buyers-can-still-do-to-lower-it/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[If you’ve been keeping an eye on current housing trends, you’ve likely noticed one major theme dominating headlines: rising interest...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                <title>Want to Start Investing in Real Estate? Here’s the Smartest Way to Begin</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/want-to-start-investing-in-real-estate-heres-the-smartest-way-to-begin/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/want-to-start-investing-in-real-estate-heres-the-smartest-way-to-begin/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Thinking about building long-term wealth? You’re not alone. More Americans are turning to investing in real estate as a strategic...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                <title>What Is a Mortgage Rate Buydown And Can It Actually Save You Money?</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/what-is-a-mortgage-rate-buydown-and-can-it-actually-save-you-money/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/what-is-a-mortgage-rate-buydown-and-can-it-actually-save-you-money/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[In today’s housing market, where mortgage rates fluctuate more than ever, many homebuyers are searching for creative ways to make...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                <title>Smart Homes &amp;amp; Tech: What Buyers Are Looking For</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/smart-homes-tech-what-buyers-are-looking-for/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/smart-homes-tech-what-buyers-are-looking-for/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Introduction In today’s competitive real estate market, smart homes &amp; tech are no longer optional &#8211; they’re expected. As homebuyers...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                <title>Haunted or Historic? How to Market Homes with a Spooky Past</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/haunted-or-historic-how-to-market-homes-with-a-spooky-past/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/haunted-or-historic-how-to-market-homes-with-a-spooky-past/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Introduction Every property has a story, but what happens when that story is a little unsettling? From rumored hauntings to...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                <title>First-Time Homebuyer Guide: What Costs Most People Overlook</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/first-time-homebuyer-guide-what-costs-most-people-overlook/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/first-time-homebuyer-guide-what-costs-most-people-overlook/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Introduction Navigating the housing market as a newbie can feel like walking through a minefield. That’s why this first-time homebuyer...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                <title>How to Win a Bidding War Without Overpaying</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/how-to-win-a-bidding-war-without-overpaying/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/how-to-win-a-bidding-war-without-overpaying/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Introduction In today’s fast-changing world of real estate, knowing how to win a bidding war without overpaying can make all...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>Is It a Buyer’s Market or a Seller’s Market? 2025 Real Estate Trends</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/is-it-a-buyers-market-or-a-sellers-market-2025-real-estate-trends/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/is-it-a-buyers-market-or-a-sellers-market-2025-real-estate-trends/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Introduction The real estate question on many people’s minds as we are about to wrap up 2025 and head into...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>How to Buy with Less Than 20% Down in Today’s Market</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/how-to-buy-with-less-than-20-down-in-todays-market/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/how-to-buy-with-less-than-20-down-in-todays-market/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Introduction Buying a home is one of the biggest financial steps most people will ever take, and many buyers assume...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                <title>What Lower Mortgage Rates Mean for Homebuyers Right Now</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/what-lower-mortgage-rates-mean-for-homebuyers-right-now/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.eapsites.com/real-estate-blog/what-lower-mortgage-rates-mean-for-homebuyers-right-now/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[After months of fluctuating interest rates and financial uncertainty, there&#8217;s a glimmer of relief for buyers: lower mortgage rates are...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>Price Drops, Bidding Wars, and Mortgage Rate Madness: What’s Really Happening This Fall?</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/price-drops-bidding-wars-and-mortgage-rate-madness-whats-really-happening-this-fall/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/price-drops-bidding-wars-and-mortgage-rate-madness-whats-really-happening-this-fall/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Introduction The real estate market has always had its ups and downs, but this season feels particularly unpredictable. From surprising...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>The Autumn Aesthetic: Why Fall Colors Help Sell Homes Faster</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/the-autumn-aesthetic-why-fall-colors-help-sell-homes-faster/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/the-autumn-aesthetic-why-fall-colors-help-sell-homes-faster/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Introduction Crisp air, golden leaves, and cozy curb appeal, autumn is one of the most underrated yet powerful seasons for...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title>The Airbnb vs. Long-Term Rental Debate: What Makes Sense This Fall?</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/the-airbnb-vs-long-term-rental-debate-what-makes-sense-this-fall/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/the-airbnb-vs-long-term-rental-debate-what-makes-sense-this-fall/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Introduction As the seasons change, many real estate investors are asking the same question: which strategy is smarter right now,...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>How Gen Z Is Redefining Homeownership This Fall</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/how-gen-z-is-redefining-homeownership-this-fall/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.eapsites.com/real-estate-blog/how-gen-z-is-redefining-homeownership-this-fall/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Introduction The landscape of real estate is shifting, and a new generation is leading the way. How Gen Z is...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>Is Fall the Best Time to Buy a Home? Here’s Why You Shouldn’t Wait for Spring</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/is-fall-the-best-time-to-buy-a-home-heres-why-you-shouldnt-wait-for-spring/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/is-fall-the-best-time-to-buy-a-home-heres-why-you-shouldnt-wait-for-spring/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Introduction When it comes to real estate, timing can make a big difference. Many buyers assume that spring is the...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>Football, Fire Pits &amp;amp; Front Porches: Fall Features Buyers Crave</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/football-fire-pits-front-porches-fall-features-buyers-crave/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/football-fire-pits-front-porches-fall-features-buyers-crave/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Introduction Fall brings cooler evenings, changing leaves, and a shift in what homebuyers want most. From cozy fire pits to...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>Your Fall Maintenance Checklist: Protect Your Investment Before Winter</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/your-fall-maintenance-checklist-protect-your-investment-before-winter/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/your-fall-maintenance-checklist-protect-your-investment-before-winter/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[As cooler temperatures settle in, homeowners know that preparation is key to safeguarding their property. A fall maintenance checklist ensures...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title>What Zillow Can’t Tell You This Fall (But a Local Agent Can)</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/what-zillow-cant-tell-you-this-fall-but-a-local-agent-can/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.eapsites.com/real-estate-blog/what-zillow-cant-tell-you-this-fall-but-a-local-agent-can/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[As the fall real estate season unfolds, many homebuyers and sellers turn to online platforms like Zillow to gauge the...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>Smart Home, Smart Investment: Which Tech Increases Resale Value?</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/smart-home-smart-investment-which-tech-increases-resale-value/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.eapsites.com/real-estate-blog/smart-home-smart-investment-which-tech-increases-resale-value/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[In today’s fast-paced real estate market, savvy buyers and sellers alike are looking for features that make a home more...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>Wellness Real Estate: The Rise of Health-Conscious Home Design</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/wellness-real-estate-the-rise-of-health-conscious-home-design/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/wellness-real-estate-the-rise-of-health-conscious-home-design/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Introduction The way we think about our homes is evolving. More than just a place to live, our homes are...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>How to Make a Small Home Feel Bigger (and Why Buyers Love It)</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/how-to-make-a-small-home-feel-bigger-and-why-buyers-love-it/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.eapsites.com/real-estate-blog/how-to-make-a-small-home-feel-bigger-and-why-buyers-love-it/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Introduction In today’s real estate market, one thing is clear: size isn’t everything. With rising interest in compact living, learning...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                <title>Renovations That Actually Add Value to Your Home</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/renovations-that-actually-add-value-to-your-home/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.eapsites.com/real-estate-blog/renovations-that-actually-add-value-to-your-home/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Introduction In today’s competitive real estate market, homeowners are increasingly searching for renovations that actually add value to their homes....]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>What’s Really Driving Today’s Real Estate Prices?</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/whats-really-driving-todays-real-estate-prices/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/whats-really-driving-todays-real-estate-prices/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[In today’s ever-evolving housing market, one question continues to pop up for buyers, sellers, and industry pros alike: What’s really...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>How Long Does It Really Take to Buy or Sell a House?</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/how-long-does-it-really-take-to-buy-or-sell-a-house/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/how-long-does-it-really-take-to-buy-or-sell-a-house/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Introduction Whether you&#8217;re a first-time buyer, a seasoned investor, or planning to list your property, you&#8217;ve likely wondered: How long...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>What’s the Difference Between a Buyer’s and Seller’s Market?</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/whats-the-difference-between-a-buyers-and-sellers-market/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/whats-the-difference-between-a-buyers-and-sellers-market/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Understanding the dynamics of the real estate market is essential whether you’re buying, selling, or just keeping tabs on current...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>Do You Really Need 20% Down to Buy a Home?</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/do-you-really-need-20-down-to-buy-a-home/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/do-you-really-need-20-down-to-buy-a-home/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[For many first-time homebuyers, the idea of saving up 20% down to buy a home can feel like climbing a...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>Minimalist Design in Real Estate: Does Less Sell for More?</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/minimalist-design-in-real-estate-does-less-sell-for-more/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/minimalist-design-in-real-estate-does-less-sell-for-more/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[In today&#8217;s visually saturated world, clean lines, neutral tones, and uncluttered spaces are more than just design preferences—they’re powerful selling...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>Using Light and Space to Your Advantage in Summer Listings</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/using-light-and-space-to-your-advantage-in-summer-listings/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/using-light-and-space-to-your-advantage-in-summer-listings/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[In the fast-paced world of real estate, first impressions are everything, especially during the summer season. Buyers are more active,...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
                                                    <media:content medium="image" url="https://images.easyagentpro.com/images-by-id?id=a7531dfa0a5b8878221e35263e12d7092974086e48f99cb3aa023293dbe196e639fb8f90.jpg&#038;w=800"></media:content>
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                    <item>
                <title>Low-Maintenance Landscaping Ideas That Look Great All Season</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/low-maintenance-landscaping-ideas-that-look-great-all-season/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.eapsites.com/real-estate-blog/low-maintenance-landscaping-ideas-that-look-great-all-season/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[When it comes to curb appeal, few things make a more immediate impression than a well-maintained yard. But not everyone...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title>Sustainable Home Features That Add Real Value</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/sustainable-home-features-that-add-real-value/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/sustainable-home-features-that-add-real-value/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[In today’s real estate market, sustainable home features that add real value are more than just trendy upgrades—they’re smart investments....]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>Should I Buy or Sell This Summer? Questions to Help You Decide</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/should-i-buy-or-sell-this-summer-questions-to-help-you-decide/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/should-i-buy-or-sell-this-summer-questions-to-help-you-decide/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Introduction As summer heats up, so does the real estate market and if you’ve been wondering, “Should I buy or...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
                                                    <media:content medium="image" url="https://images.easyagentpro.com/images-by-id?id=bddc4d24da9339f881266b9de12c0dcfa3fe3e45632a4bc77130f381ec4af05c1a3344cb.jpg&#038;w=800"></media:content>
                                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title>Summer Staging Secrets to Make Buyers Fall in Love</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/summer-staging-secrets-to-make-buyers-fall-in-love/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/summer-staging-secrets-to-make-buyers-fall-in-love/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[When it comes to selling your home during the sunny months, setting the right seasonal tone is essential. That’s where...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>The Backyard is the New Living Room: Outdoor Trends for 2025</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/the-backyard-is-the-new-living-room-outdoor-trends-for-2025/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.eapsites.com/real-estate-blog/the-backyard-is-the-new-living-room-outdoor-trends-for-2025/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[As more homeowners continue to prioritize comfort, connection, and creativity at home, the line between indoor and outdoor living keeps...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title>How to Make the Most of Your Outdoor Space This Summer</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/how-to-make-the-most-of-your-outdoor-space-this-summer/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.eapsites.com/real-estate-blog/how-to-make-the-most-of-your-outdoor-space-this-summer/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[As summer rolls in with longer days and warmer nights, there&#8217;s no better time to transform your backyard, patio, or...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>Eco-Friendly Yard Ideas for a Greener Summer</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/eco-friendly-yard-ideas-for-a-greener-summer/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/eco-friendly-yard-ideas-for-a-greener-summer/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Introduction Summer is the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors, but what if your yard could look great and help...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title>What to Know About the Housing Market This Summer</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/what-to-know-about-the-housing-market-this-summer/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/what-to-know-about-the-housing-market-this-summer/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Introduction The housing market this summer is already shaping up to be one of the most talked-about topics in real...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
                                                    <media:content medium="image" url="https://images.easyagentpro.com/images-by-id?id=93d5a9164ca34d31ad9d1069e92efbb92d992a0d90bf22a5a8dcb0d27b6d474caa07af72.jpg&#038;w=800"></media:content>
                                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title>How Interest Rates Impact Your Buying Power in 2025</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/how-interest-rates-impact-your-buying-power-in-2025/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/how-interest-rates-impact-your-buying-power-in-2025/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Introduction If you’ve been keeping an eye on the housing market, you’ve probably noticed that mortgage rates have been making...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title>Easy Summer Updates to Refresh Your Space Without Renovating</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/easy-summer-updates-to-refresh-your-space-without-renovating/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/easy-summer-updates-to-refresh-your-space-without-renovating/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[When the warm weather rolls in, it’s natural to crave change, including your living space. If your home is feeling...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title>Summer 2025 Interior Design Trends That Make Your Home Feel Fresh</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/summer-2025-interior-design-trends-that-make-your-home-feel-fresh/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/summer-2025-interior-design-trends-that-make-your-home-feel-fresh/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[As the weather warms up, it’s not just our wardrobes that get a seasonal refresh; our homes deserve one too....]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>Real Estate Terms Explained: What You Need to Know Before You Dive In</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/real-estate-terms-explained-what-you-need-to-know-before-you-dive-in/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/real-estate-terms-explained-what-you-need-to-know-before-you-dive-in/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Introduction Starting your real estate journey can feel like learning a new language. With all the industry jargon, escrow, contingency,...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                <title>Smart Home Essentials for Modern Living: Top Tech Upgrades for Today’s Homebuyers</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/smart-home-essentials-for-modern-living-top-tech-upgrades-for-todays-homebuyers/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/smart-home-essentials-for-modern-living-top-tech-upgrades-for-todays-homebuyers/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Introduction: Why Smart Homes Are Leading the Way As technology becomes more integrated into our daily lives, it’s no surprise...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                <title>What to Declutter Before You List Your Home</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/what-to-declutter-before-you-list-your-home/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.eapsites.com/real-estate-blog/what-to-declutter-before-you-list-your-home/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Getting ready to sell your home? One of the most important steps in the pre-listing process is tackling clutter. Whether...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                <title>Open Floor Plans or Cozy Corners? What Buyers Are Looking for in 2025</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/open-floor-plans-or-cozy-corners-what-buyers-are-looking-for-in-2025/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/open-floor-plans-or-cozy-corners-what-buyers-are-looking-for-in-2025/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[The real estate world is always evolving, and as we move through 2025, design preferences are shifting in exciting new...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                <title>Spring Home Maintenance Checklist Every Homeowner Should Follow</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/spring-home-maintenance-checklist-every-homeowner-should-follow/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/spring-home-maintenance-checklist-every-homeowner-should-follow/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[As the days get longer and flowers start to bloom, spring is the ideal time to give your home a...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>Turn a Fixer-Upper into a Goldmine: Spring Tips for First-Time Investors</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/turn-a-fixer-upper-into-a-goldmine-spring-tips-for-first-time-investors/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.eapsites.com/real-estate-blog/turn-a-fixer-upper-into-a-goldmine-spring-tips-for-first-time-investors/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Thinking about diving into real estate for the first time? Spring is the perfect season to explore the world of...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>How to Maximize Your Airbnb or Short-Term Rental for Today’s Real Estate Trends</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/how-to-maximize-your-airbnb-or-short-term-rental-for-todays-real-estate-trends/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.eapsites.com/real-estate-blog/how-to-maximize-your-airbnb-or-short-term-rental-for-todays-real-estate-trends/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[If you’ve been keeping an eye on current real estate trends, you already know that short-term rentals like Airbnb have...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                                            </item>
                    <item>
                <title>Spring Cleaning Goes Green: Non-Toxic Products &amp;amp; DIY Hacks for a Healthier Home</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/spring-cleaning-goes-green-non-toxic-products-diy-hacks-for-a-healthier-home/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/spring-cleaning-goes-green-non-toxic-products-diy-hacks-for-a-healthier-home/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[As the flowers bloom and the days get longer, spring offers the perfect excuse to refresh and reset your space....]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>Eco-Friendly Spring Upgrades: Solar, Smart Tech, and Energy Efficiency</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/eco-friendly-spring-upgrades-solar-smart-tech-and-energy-efficiency/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/eco-friendly-spring-upgrades-solar-smart-tech-and-energy-efficiency/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[As warmer weather approaches, homeowners and buyers alike are turning their attention to eco-conscious living, and spring is the perfect...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>Interior Refresh: 2025 Paint Color Trends for a Spring Home Makeover</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/interior-refresh-2025-paint-color-trends-for-a-spring-home-makeover/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/interior-refresh-2025-paint-color-trends-for-a-spring-home-makeover/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Introduction Spring is the perfect time for a home refresh, and nothing revitalizes a space quite like a new coat...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
                                                    <media:content medium="image" url="https://images.easyagentpro.com/images-by-id?id=8181930a430e8e98761ed6efbcbd089064b5a0e6aa5a99f70f49baf05e2a0c4892c5ff07.jpg&#038;w=800"></media:content>
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                    <item>
                <title>The ROI of Outdoor Living: Patio, Pergola, and Landscaping Trends for 2025</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/the-roi-of-outdoor-living-patio-pergola-and-landscaping-trends-for-2025/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.eapsites.com/real-estate-blog/the-roi-of-outdoor-living-patio-pergola-and-landscaping-trends-for-2025/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Introduction Outdoor living spaces are more than just a luxury—they’re a smart investment. As homeowners seek ways to enhance property...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>How to Stage Your Home to Sell This Spring (Checklist Inside!)</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/how-to-stage-your-home-to-sell-this-spring-checklist-inside/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/how-to-stage-your-home-to-sell-this-spring-checklist-inside/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Make Your Home Stand Out This Spring Market Spring is one of the most active seasons for real estate, and...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>Top 5 Home Features Buyers Want in Spring 2025</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/top-5-home-features-buyers-want-in-spring-2025/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/top-5-home-features-buyers-want-in-spring-2025/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[Introduction As the housing market heats up for the new season, it’s clear that buyer preferences are shifting. Knowing the...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                    <item>
                <title>Is Spring the Best Time to Sell Your Home? Here’s Why Experts Say Yes</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/is-spring-the-best-time-to-sell-your-home-heres-why-experts-say-yes/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/is-spring-the-best-time-to-sell-your-home-heres-why-experts-say-yes/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[For years, spring has been known as the unofficial “home selling season,” and according to real estate experts and current...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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                <title>Spring 2025 Housing Market Trends: What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/spring-2025-housing-market-trends-what-buyers-and-sellers-need-to-know/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/spring-2025-housing-market-trends-what-buyers-and-sellers-need-to-know/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[As the spring 2025 real estate season unfolds, both buyers and sellers are navigating a market marked by evolving dynamics....]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
                                                    <media:content medium="image" url="https://images.easyagentpro.com/images-by-id?id=ec0602c8a11bf5d93ba076334290da471ea2163a48fa49201ba32c46e76ac71f141a70bd.jpg&#038;w=800"></media:content>
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                    <item>
                <title>Renting vs. Buying: Which One Makes More Financial Sense?</title>
                <link>https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/renting-vs-buying-which-one-makes-more-financial-sense/</link>
                <pubDate>Wed, 29 Sep 2021 15:37:56 +0000</pubDate>
                <dc:creator>Relish Realty</dc:creator>
                <guid isPermaLink="false">https://relishrealty.com/real-estate-blog/renting-vs-buying-which-one-makes-more-financial-sense/</guid>
                <description>
                    <![CDATA[In today’s uncertain housing market, many are asking the same question: renting vs buying a home — which is the...]]>
                </description>
                <content:encoded>
                    <![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2278" src="http://www.easyagentblogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bigstock-Blue-Ripped-Water-In-Swimming-416730157.jpg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" /></a></p>
<p>Summer 2020 and 2021 saw the sale of pools, and homes with pools, skyrocket. In July of this year, “… a basic vinyl in-ground pool — without the bells and whistles of heating, decking or any further customization — costs $85,000 on average, up from the $60,000 to $65,000 in 2019,” said Zachary Kussin at nypost.com.</p>
<p>As a result, a huge swath of the American public has been subjected to crash courses in subjects such as balancing the chlorine and pH levels in their pools, checking alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, keeping the pool chlorinated and more.</p>
<p>With winter just few months away, their next question will be “What do I do to get this thing ready for winter?”</p>
<p>If you’re among the curious, read on.</p>
<h2><strong>Open your pool early and close your pool late</strong></h2>
<p>It’s tempting to want to get a head start on closing your pool as summer winds down and kids head back to school. Tempting, but not wise.</p>
<p>“If you close your pool while the weather is still warm, the winter protection chemicals you’ve added will often not last until spring,” according to Lana Seidman with HIC of Staten Island, Inc., a non-profit trade association</p>
<p>She goes on to explain that “… pool chemicals are consumed much faster in hotter temperatures versus cooler temperatures.”</p>
<p>How hot is hot? Sixty degrees Fahrenheit appears to be the magic number. This is the temperature at which algae goes dormant, according to Seidman. Wait until the water temperature remains consistently lower than 60 degrees before closing your pool.</p>
<h2><strong>Give the pool a good scrub</strong></h2>
<p>The experts at Thatcher Pools recommend that you “… grab the pool brush and your telescoping pole and start scrubbing. Scrub everything from the walls to the floor, and get to the nooks and crannies if you can.”</p>
<p>Not only does this process loosen debris but also algae spores that may have settled into those nooks and crannies.</p>
<p>Finally, vacuum up all the loosened debris.</p>
<h2><strong>Get those chemicals balanced</strong></h2>
<p>Here’s what to aim for, according to those pros at Thatcher Pools:</p>
<ul>
<li>pH: 7.2 to 7.8</li>
<li>Alkalinity: 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm)</li>
<li>Chlorine: Less than 5 parts per million.</li>
</ul>
<p>Add an algaecide (never add this when the chloring level is high) and pool enzymes next. Consider using a Winter Pill that will work all winter long.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to shock the pool, regardless of how clear the water is. Find a shock product designed to be used when closing a pool that contains “… at least 65 per cent hypochlorite.”</p>
<p>No, the work isn’t over yet, but this gives you a good head start. You’ll find pool closing walk-through tutorials and videos online.</p>]]>
                </content:encoded>
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