Buying a home soon, for the first time? Get my Free Consumer Guide, “Top 10 First-Time Homebuyer Mistakes to Avoid.”…Call me right now at (203) 243-3820 for details.
January 2026
New Haven, CT
Happy New Year!
Rudy Perkins Newsletter!
"Insider Tips For Healthy, Wealthy & Happy Living..."
From food to electronics, furniture, cars, and even toys, at some point, most of us will have something recalled. Recalls are issued when something is deemed unsafe or in violation of a regulation, and the manufacturer asks consumers to return the item for a replacement or a refund.
The website recalls.gov is a good resource for the latest recall information. Additional resources include SaferProducts.gov, maintained by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, and FoodSafetyNews.com for all food recalls.
If something you own is recalled, what is the best way to deal with it? These tips will help guide you through the recall process and what you may be entitled to.
- Stop Using the Item: If a food item is recalled, stop eating it immediately. Similarly, if a product is recalled, stop using it immediately.
- Check for Compensation: The recall notice should indicate whether the recalled item will be repaired or replaced, or whether you will receive a refund. If it’s not clear, a quick visit to the websites above should help you determine the facts.
- Food Recall: If a food item in your kitchen has been recalled, return it to the store where you bought it and ask for an exchange or a refund; in most cases, a receipt is not necessary. Of course, you can toss it, too.
- Product Recall: Like food, you can return the item to the store where you bought it and ask for an exchange (for a non-recalled version) or a refund. You shouldn't need a receipt, but that depends on the manufacturer.
- Vehicle Recall: Find your VIN (it's on your dashboard, near the driver's side window). If you received a mailed notice, it should tell you where to check whether your specific car is involved in the recall. If so, take your vehicle to the dealership to have the recall item resolved.
www.rudyperkinsrealty.com
Warning Before You Sell Your Home...
Don't put your home on the market without my Free Consumer Guide titled, “How To Avoid 7 Costly Mistakes When Selling Your Home." My exclusive report will give you all the facts for a fast, top-dollar sale. Get your free copy by emailing me at [email protected]…
Word Of The Month…
Studies have shown that your income and wealth are directly related to the size and depth of your vocabulary. Here is this month's word so that you can impress your friends (and maybe even fatten your wallet!)…
Winsome (win-sum) adjective
Meaning: cheerful, lighthearted
Sample Sentence: Her winsome personality made her a joy to work with.
Did You Know?
We know the adage that no two snowflakes are alike, but did you know that each is made up of about 200 ice crystals and has six sides? And though they look like they effortlessly float through the sky, snowflakes actually fall at a rate of 3 to 4 miles per hour.
Have A Chuckle
What do you call a line of men waiting to get a haircut?
A barber-queue
Clean A Lampshade
No matter how often we clean the house, it's easy to overlook the lampshades scattered throughout. Here are easy ways to clean them quickly and effectively.
-Unplug the lamp, remove the shade, and remember to wipe the lightbulb.
-Next, use a feather duster or microfiber cloth to lift the dust gently.
-Shades with pleats are easily cleaned using an electric duster or a new paintbrush.
Quotes To Live By…
“The two most important days in your life are the day you are born... and the day you find out why.”
–Mark Twain, writer
“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’”
–Martin Luther King, Jr., activist
“You may encounter many defeats, but you must not be defeated.”
–Maya Angelou, poet
Surprising Reasons For Dry Skin
When the weather cools, many of us find ourselves slathering on the lotion to combat dry skin. Though colder temperatures and dry air do cause our skin to dry out, so do some surprising health conditions.
- A vitamin or mineral deficiency can cause dehydrated skin.
- Smoking ages our skin, which in turn makes it drier.
- Dry skin can sometimes be a sign of an underlying medical condition, such as diabetes, thyroid disease, or kidney disease.
- Food allergies can also dry out our skin.
- Medications like statins (cholesterol), retinol (acne), or diuretics (high blood pressure) may cause dry skin.
If you notice your skin is drier than usual, keep an eye out for arid areas, itchiness, or rough patches. It is also a good idea to talk with your doctor to see if there are any underlying health concerns that could be the root cause.
Henry Ford once said, "My best friend is the one who brings out the best in me." But our friendships do so much more; they're good for our health, too.
Research shows that healthy friendships – those that are positive, consistent, and vulnerable – can lower our risks of many health issues, keep anxiety at bay, and protect us from the adverse effects of stress. Meaningful friendships can also combat feelings of loneliness, which can manifest in headaches, fatigue, and nausea. In fact, these friendships have been identified as one of the leading predictors of a long, healthy, and satisfying life.
While experts say that most of us are happy with three to five very close friends, we also benefit from interactions with acquaintances and even strangers. So go ahead, have a quick chat with the barista at your local coffee shop. It's good for you!
www.rudyperkinsrealty.com
Would You Like To Know How Much
Your Neighbor's Home Listed Or Sold For?
Maybe you're just curious. Or perhaps you want to know how much your home is worth. Either way, I can help…with no “sales pitches” or run-arounds. Please email me at [email protected].
And I'll give you all the facts.
Brain Teaser…
What’s something that belongs to you, but others seem to use it more than you?
(see pg. 4)
Real Estate Question?
Maybe you want to know how much your home is worth. Or perhaps you need a recommendation for a handyman, carpet cleaner, or plumber…Either way, I love hearing from all of my good friends and clients. And I'm happy to help answer any questions you might have about real estate or home ownership. If you have a question, tip, or idea, call me at (203) 243-3820. I’m here to help!
Quickly De-Ice A Windshield
When it's cold outside, the last thing you want to do is stand out there scraping your car's windshield. Use these tips instead:
- Start the car and turn the heater on, and set the defrost to high.
- Mix 2/3 cup rubbing alcohol with 1/3 cup water in a spray bottle to store in the car; it won't freeze! For heavy ice built up, spray lightly, wait a moment, and use the wipers to clear.
New Sport?
Have you heard of the new sport called quiet tennis?
It's like regular tennis but without the racket.
Sleep Wellness Websites
A good night’s sleep boosts overall wellness. These websites can help make the most of your shut-eye.
www.sleepfoundation.org – Expert reviews of pillows, mattresses, bedding, and more.
www.thensf.org – Easy to follow guidelines for better sleep.
www.sleepeducation.org – Determine your ideal bedtime and keep a sleep diary.
Get Fenced In, Without Breaking The Bank
Whether it's time to replace an existing fence or if you're starting fresh in your yard, you may be surprised when the quotes come rolling in. Just how much for sheets of vinyl or slabs of wood?
Depending on the type of fence you have in mind, pricing can range from about $1,500 to $13,000 or more, depending on materials, height, length, and any additional bells and whistles. Luckily, there are many options, and you should be able to find one that fits your budget.
- Split Rail: If your idea for a fence is more about defining space than for privacy, consider installing a split rail fence. Not only does a split rail fence keep costs down, but it is also not as restrictive and opens up sight lines.
- Bamboo: For a bit more privacy, a bamboo panel fence could be the solution. Sheets of bamboo can be attached to posts without too much fuss.
- Pallet: Scope out the delivery areas of your local stores to see if there are any discarded pallets you can repurpose for a fence. Not only are they an affordable alternative, but they're also trendy.
- Lattice: Another affordable DIY option is installing lattice work to act as a fence, so long as you attach it to something sturdy.
- Natural Fence: If you do not need to keep animals or kids constrained, consider planning a natural fence using shrubs and bushes. Not only will you define your space, but you'll enjoy the greenery.
www.rudyperkinsrealty.com
Please Welcome New Clients And Good Friends Into Our Real Estate Family...
I want to welcome new clients and good friends who have supported my business over the years. And special thanks to everyone who thought of me with your referrals!
Thanks For Thinking of Me!
Did you know I can help you, or any of your friends or family, save time and money when buying or selling a home? Thanks for keeping me in mind with your referrals…and spreading the word about my services.
Brain Teaser Answer:
Your name
Old Year's Resolutions?
Traditionally, we make New Year's resolutions at the beginning of the year, with the intention of bettering ourselves in some way. But when and where did that tradition begin? You may be surprised - as long as 4,000 years ago! In ancient times, the Babylonians "made promises to the gods to pay their debts and return any objects they had borrowed." If they kept their promises, they believed the gods would favor them throughout the year. The Romans began a similar tradition in 46 B.C.E.
Long Fear
There are over 500 documented kinds of phobias, many with interesting names – all ending in -phobia, which means ‘fear’ in Greek. Claustrophobia, the fear of tight spaces, is common, but have you heard of hippopotomonstrosesquipedaliophobia? It's the fear of long words!
THANK YOU for reading my
Newsletter. I wanted to produce a newsletter with great content that is fun and valuable to you. Your constructive feedback is always welcome.
AND…whether you’re thinking of buying, selling, or financing real estate, or want to stop by and say “Hi,” I'd love to hear from you…
Rudolph Perkins
Rudy Perkins Realty
(203) 243-3820
Disclaimer: The information contained in this letter is intended for informational purposes. It should not substitute as legal, accounting, investment, medical or other professional services advice. Always seek a competent professional for answers to your specific questions. This letter is not intended to solicit real estate properties currently for sale.
Q: What Factors Do I Need To Consider When Selling A Home?
A: Finding the right price point is the first consideration. You don't want to price your home too high or too low. The balance of the house should be paid with proceeds from the sale, and you'll want to make a profit to help fund your next home purchase.
Make sure you are ready. You should be able to afford to get your house sale-ready and make the move to a new home. The time of year can also make a difference in how quickly you can sell – spring and summer are better times to put your home on the market because people have more free time to look at houses.
Consider the condition of the home. You may need to make upgrades or repair cosmetic defects. Remember, many homebuyers may not be able to get past the look of your home if there are significant issues. If your home is outdated, adding fresh appliances, new paint, and exterior repairs can improve first impressions and increase your home's value.
Having excellent exposure is necessary for selling your home. The right homebuyers will want what your home has to offer and be able to afford the price. Your realtor will employ professional marketing tactics, such as open houses, signage, MLS listings, and website exposure, to ensure the right buyers see your home.
For definitions of these terms and more financing tips, ask for my Free Consumer Report called "7 Costly Mistakes When Selling Your Home.” I'll send a copy right to you. Please email me at [email protected].
www.rudyperkinsrealty.com
A $50.00 Gift Certificate?"
Then be the first person to answer this month's trivia question correctly.
Last Month's Trivia Question:
What animal hibernates longest?
a) Bear b) Sloth c) Koala d) Snail
The answer is d) Snails can hibernate up to three years, and hibernate in both cold and hot weather. Bears, on the other hand, can hibernate in their distinct way for up to eight months, while koalas and sloths don't hibernate at all.
This Month's Trivia Question:
What is the most common street name in the United States?
a) Main Street b) First Street c) Central Avenue d) Second Street
Email Me At [email protected]. And You Could Be One Of My Next Winners!