​Each city has its own unique flair and features; Auburn Hills is no different.  There are some terrific venues and activities in the area from restaurants and festivals to even events at the local library.  The Auburn Hills Historical Society has partnered with the Auburn Hills Public Library to present House Mysteries/House Histories; it’s a guide to tracing the genealogy of your house.  This event is scheduled for April 9 at the local library.  If you miss that event, you can contact them for a list of upcoming events for later this Spring and Summer at (248) 370-9466.
If you like Asian cuisine, I recommend China Village for a delicious meal.  Although it is not located in Auburn Hills, it borders the city and is one of my local favorites.  So, I have to give them an honorable mention.  Downtown Auburn Hills is jammed packed with restaurants, a winery and even an ice cream spot.  Everything is located within a short walking distance of parking.
Lastly, if you like festivals and music I’d highly recommend that you must check out the Knight Amphitheater at Riverside Park.  It’s another great feature of downtown Auburn Hills.  There are so many events scheduled for this summer.  For more information, you can contact the staff at (248) 370-9353.
-Natasha Hughes Smith
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To inspect or not to inspect; that is the question.  Home buyers, it’s always good for you to know the signs of trouble, but always lean on the knowledge and expertise of a professional inspector.  You can use your ability to spot potential issues to determine if you want to even make an offer, but don’t rely on that limited knowledge to determine if you should move on with a purchase. 
Consequently, moving forward without an inspection from a licensed and insured inspector can be more costly than the cost of an inspection.  Don’t short change yourself by putting yourself in a situation that could cost you more than just a headache.
 
-Natasha Hughes Smith

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This time of the year finds us in our reflective modes and hoping to make better decisions in the months to come.  There is no time better than the present to decide to make positive changes and to accomplished long awaited goals.  I hope you experience great achievements and joy in the new year.
-Natasha Hughes Smith

​The holiday season naturally brings on different levels of emotions for people.  The current state of the world is creating or compounding emotions in many of us.  A lot of families put a greater emphasis on commercial gift giving and for those, this year might be extra frustrating as we deal with product shortages and supply chain issues. 
Emotions and frustrations are already high and our senses are on high alert; so, it is best that we don’t allow our emotions to be manipulated by outside sources, commercials, news programs and social media.  It is essential that we cling to things in our lives that have value beyond a price tag and focus on loving and keeping those dear to us, close to us.
The holidays are meant to be a time of joy and reflection, not stress and anxiety.  Let us try to silence the fear mongers and not play into their game and enjoy our time with family and friends this holiday season.
-Natasha Hughes Smith    

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As the school year approaches, I am reminded of my own school years and the excitement I felt during this time of the year.  I was excited to learn new things and meet new friends; of course, I experienced some nervousness because everything was new, but my excitement outweighed it.
               
Recently, I became a member of several book groups on Facebook and people discuss the classics they are currently reading.  I have come to realize how fortunate I was to have the classics be a part of my high school curriculum and to have my analytical journey be guided by teachers.  It makes me love and appreciate them all the more.  They may never read this or even know what I have accomplished, but I want to say thank you to every single teacher I’ve had from kindergarten to graduate school.  The ones from my formative years have a special place in my heart; thank you and I love you.
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-Natasha Hughes Smith
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​If you never experienced the feeling of being overwhelmed or anxiety, you probably experienced it for the first-time last year.  Some of those feelings have followed you into the year, 2021.  What do we do to dispel and conquer these feelings?  I don’t have all the answers and some might say that I don’t have any, but I can make some suggestions.

Firstly, it’s okay to admit to having these feelings among others.  Know that these feelings do not have to control you; you can regain control over the things you can change and that’s you.  You have a say or control of how you react to these feelings when they come on the attack.
Secondly, reach out to confidants or counselors, people with whom you can be vulnerable.  Everyone needs someone that they can share and talk about the things that way them down.  I employ you to find that someone.

Additionally, realize that it’s okay to let go.  Identify what is important and acknowledge your priorities.  And let everything else go.  Let go of the fear, the anxiety and the stress.  Don’t worry about the things you cannot change.   Focus on the goals and priorities that you have set and acknowledged.

Finally, relax; everything does not have to be perfect.  Forgive yourself and others if things have not turned out just right.  Be open and flexible; you’ll see that your stress and feelings of being overwhelmed will lessen.  There’s no magical wand or teaching that will change things overnight.  It will take effort and time, but it is possible.
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-Natasha Hughes Smith

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​Let’s reconnect.  As our country opens and things try to get back to “normal”, we can explore some fun ideas for the summer.  We can do what we’ve always done year in and year out and enjoy it like we have every single time.  Or we can explore some new outdoor adventures or activities.
Our country is so vast and filled with so much beauty; it won’t take long to think of something fun and exciting to do.  If you live in Michigan, you can visit the many downtown areas filled with restaurants or you can visit rivers and lakes and hit the water ways.  There are so many options from Southeastern Michigan to the majestic beauty of Western Michigan to the Upper Peninsula. 
Take your pick, but whatever you do, don’t stay inside all summer long.  It’s good to get out and feel the fresh breeze of summer on your face.  If you want to travel in Michigan, check out the state’s website (Michigan.gov) for the adventures that await.
 
-Natasha Hughes Smith

​Realtors run into difficult clients from time to time.  Let’s face it, we all can be difficult once in a while.  However, when our client is being difficult about completing the Seller’s Disclosure Statement, we have to stress the importance of it and how not completing it can make a deal go south!
If the statement is not completed and provided, the buyer can cancel the deal right up to closing.  And in Michigan if one is not provided or partially completed and the buyer has an issue with something after closing, the buyer can bring action for silent fraud.  So, if you encounter a client who is reluctant to complete the form, make it clear that the law put this is place to protect both seller and buyer.
-Natasha Hughes Smith

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​Today’s metal roof is not the same as your grandpa’s.  Today’s metal roofing provides energy efficiency, style and is easy on the environment.  Metal roofs are fully made from recycled materials and can be recycled once they have completed their lifecycle protecting your home.  Everyone wants ways to save money and to keep the house cool when it should be cool and warm when it should be warm.  Metal roofs do this well and can help home owners reduce their energy costs.
Metal roofs come in a variety of colors and patterns; so, owners can be creative when selecting a pattern and color that reflects their own personal style.  However, the cost of metal roofs is more expensive than asphalt shingles; so customarily, owners that make this investment intend to be in the home for a decade or longer.  So, if you are thinking of getting a new roof, check your options.  You might want to go metal.
-Natasha Hughes Smith

What could be better than living in a tightknit community?  Living in a tightknit community in Lathrup Village is better.  You can own 1.94 acres in a beautiful subdivision, where the neighbors look out for one another and are actively involved in community affairs.  You can build one home or divide it up into one or two additional parcels to sell.  There are a few options for builders and home buyers who want to build new construction.  This dream can be yours.  Check out the links below to take a tour of the property and to get more information about the listing.
https://youtu.be/Q5XBknIgAa8
​https://matrix.realcomponline.com/.../19600FORESTDrive
​-Natasha Hughes Smith