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Homeownership

Happy Cans: A Simple Service That Makes Home Maintenance in the Triangle Feel Easier

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Owning a home is full of “unseen” chores that steal time from the things we’d rather be doing—like building a business, enjoying family, or simply relaxing. One of the least glamorous? Cleaning trash and recycling bins.

Why I’m Recommending Happy Cans

Last week, I had my latest experience with Happy Cans in Wake County (whom I’ve worked with before), and I’m definitely a fan girl. Their team came to clean both my trash can and recycling bin—and impressed me at every step.

When our entire street was missed for recycling pickup, I didn’t even realize it until later. That didn’t stop the Happy Cans crew: they emptied my recycling bin themselves, cleaned it, and put the recyclables back inside. Many service providers would have said, “Sorry, nothing we can do today,” but they went the extra mile.

The Value of Time

Could I have saved $60 by doing it myself? Technically, yes. But as an entrepreneur, the real value is in the time they gave back to me. While I was away working with clients, they handled a chore that would have eaten into my evening—and they did it better than I ever could.

What They Offer

Happy Cans provides professional cleaning for your trash and recycling bins across Wake County. (And believe me, I’m trying my best to get them to Carteret County to serve our clients at the coast, too!)

They use high-pressure, eco-friendly cleaning equipment to:

  • Eliminate odors and bacteria
  • Keep pests away
  • Leave bins looking and smelling fresh

You can choose from one-time cleanings or recurring service plans—perfect for homeowners who want to keep things fresh without the hassle.

My Takeaway for Clients

If you’re buying or selling a home in Wake County, add Happy Cans to your list of trusted local services. Clean bins not only improve curb appeal but also make daily life just a little more pleasant.

Bottom line: Happy Cans turned a dreaded chore into an effortless win. I’m recommending them to my clients—and I’ll definitely be scheduling regular visits.

Have a Wake County service provider you love? I’m always collecting resources to share with clients—send me your favorites: 919-229-9725 or Lisa@InvestInHerRealEstate.com!

Breaking Barriers to Homeownership—One 2% Down Payment at a Time

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Helping More Buyers Become Homeowners—Starting With Just 2% Down

Homeownership has long been part of the American Dream, but for too many would-be buyers, especially first-time buyers, that dream can feel just out of reach. Between rising home prices, bidding wars, and daunting down payments, many buyers are left renting longer than they’d like… or giving up on buying altogether.

That’s precisely the challenge Ownify is tackling head-on—and I’m proud to say I’m an accredited Ownify agent myself.

💡 What is Ownify?

Ownify is a modern financing model that helps homebuyers become homeowners with as little as 2% down. From day one, buyers start building equity without needing to qualify for a traditional mortgage or compete against all-cash buyers.

Instead of waiting to “save more,” Ownify clients get to:

  • Secure a home as a powerful cash buyer (Ownify funds the rest),
  • Avoid appraisal and financing contingencies,
  • Own from day one, with 2% equity immediately and up to 10% by year five,
  • Skip the stress of taxes, insurance, or big-ticket repairs (Ownify handles those),
  • And most importantly, start building wealth now, not later.

The founder of Ownify, Frank Rohde, recently gave an primer TED Talk on how we can create more pathways to ownership for the next generation of buyers. It’s well worth a watch, whether you’re a hopeful future homeowner or someone who believes everyone deserves a fair shot at owning a place to call home:

🎥 Watch the TED Talk here

📍 As a REALTOR® with Ownify accreditation, I’d love to help you understand whether this approach is right for you—or for someone you care about. Let’s chat!

Contact Lisa

Homeownership is for You: June is the Time to Start Investing in Yourself

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June marks National Homeownership Month—a celebration with roots going back to 1995, when President Clinton launched the National Homeownership Strategy to help more Americans realize the dream of owning a home. Later designated officially as Homeownership Month in 2002 under President George W. Bush, the month shines a spotlight on the economic and personal benefits of homeownership—and the importance of making it accessible to more individuals and families.

Big thanks to the city editors at RALtoday for reminding us in this morning’s newsletter that a hometown effort right here in the City of Raleigh offers a truly impactful resource for first-time homebuyers looking to make their move.

The City of Raleigh’s Homebuyer Assistance Program provides eligible buyers with up to $60,000 in financial support for down payment and closing costs. Yes, $60,000—and it’s forgivable.

Here’s a quick breakdown of how the program works:

  • 📍 You must be a first-time homebuyer (or haven’t owned a home in the last three years).
  • 💵 Forgivable loans of up to $60,000 are available based on your household income.
  • 🏡 Eligible properties must be located within Raleigh city limits and serve as your primary residence.
  • 🤝 Homebuyer education is required, so you’re equipped with the knowledge and tools to succeed.

For full details and eligibility info, visit the City of Raleigh’s official program page: https://raleighnc.gov/housing/services/homebuyer-assistance.

If you’ve been dreaming about turning your rent check into equity, it’s time to explore what’s possible. Whether you’re just starting the conversation or ready to take the next step, we’ll guide you with clarity and care.

Reach out today, and let’s create your roadmap for moving from renting to owning. Start by investing in yourself.

Contact Lisa and Team