What To Repair In Your Home Before You List

A lot of money goes into buying a new house so it is understandable if a seller feels hesitant investing even more money to fix up their current house prior to selling. However, sellers may not realize that some of the issues they live with everyday and consider minor, such as the hallway light switch or the kitchen sink that has plumbing issues, may actually be considered major to home buyers. These issues may even prevent buyers from making an offer on a home or making a lower offer. It’s crucial to keep your house presentable and in good shape before you list it on the market. That being said, read on to find out what repairs you might want to consider before you list on your house on the market.

Roof Problems

A roof is one of the most important components of a home, protecting all that is underneath. Additionally, roofs are major expenses to replace. Therefore, it is imperative to keep the roof well maintained and free of damage and leaks. Issues like water and sun damage, clogged gutters, and rotting will lead to bigger issues if not fixed timely. Tending to these items immediately will help prevent further damage and help present the home well.

Poor Maintenance

Minor issues such as damaged flooring, paint chipping, and old carpeting can be easily fixed to give your home a renovation. Your goal is to make your home appealing so start by replacing anything that is heavily worn and adding a fresh coat of paint. And these minor upgrades can be inexpensive because you’ll most likely see a return on investment.

Plumbing

Plumbing problems can result in minor or major issues and it is very important to take care of these issues right away as they can lead to furtherproblems. Bigger problems such as water damage can lead to mold and easy fixes to leaky faucets can be replaced inexpensively.

Wiring

Electrical problems can cause a wide variety of problems. Smaller fixes such as faulty switches, missing wire nuts, or damaged junction boxes can be fixed with a good electrician. Replacing a circuit breaker might be needed if they don’t match the amperage of your home. Some repairs are obvious to see and others aren’t so it’s a good idea to run a pre-inspection of your house before listing. After, review it with your realtor because they can advise on which ones are the first priority.

Top Tips For House Hunting Online

Hunting for a new home online a is a great place to start your search but keep in mind that you don’t see everything. Real estate agents are great at highlighting the features of a house listing online but to make the most of your time, keep these three things in mind:

Identify your Housing Needs

Preferences are important when house searching. A house may not have everything you want but it will have most of the things. Be realistic about pricing and keep in mind the must-have items that will definitely be needed because this will help narrow your search.

Stay up to Date

When you start your search, make sure you go to sites with up-to-date listings directly from the multiple listing service. Realtors post their most current homes for sale through this. Many sites fail to remove listings that are already off the market, and this can lead to you trying to sort through them and find the recent ones.

Pictures can be Deceiving

Photographers capture listings at their best. They use different strategies and tools to boost the appeal of the home like creative editing and expensive camera equipment known for its effects. What they don’t show is unappealing parts, like an undone bathroom or small closet.

Go See The Listing After

After you have chosen a house that’s appealing to you, schedule a showing with your real estate agent. This is the opportunity to see every part of the house in person and see if it’s a good fit.

Searching online is a great way to learn more about the house you’re looking for. Even if you’re still unsure about moving, house hunting online gives potential sellers the basic information.

How To Keep A Clean Home

Keeping a clean home can be a challenge even when you do not have your home listed for sale. Many people are fortunate enough to have regular house cleaners take care of this – for the rest of us, we find time in our week to take care of our home ourselves.

Experts suggest that creating a schedule to accomplish the important tasks each week is the best way to keep a clean home without the stress. Taking into account that things change, customize this schedule/list to fit your own weekly activities. By using this plan, you will keep your home clean all week, with only 5 days of effort.

• Day 1 - Dust and then vacuum the home. Dust first as the dust will fall onto the floor. Mop any hard surface floors as well.

• Day 2 – Deep clean bathrooms, shower and toilets, clean mirrors and shine fixtures.

• Day 3 – Address the kitchen. Check the inside of the microwave, oven and clean drips

  off of cabinets.

• Day 4 – Window day. Clean all the windows you can reach. Hire a professional if needed.

• Day 5 – Garden work. Trim trees, remove weeds and remove debris

Sounds easy, right? No. It’s hard to carve out time during the week, but breaking up the work into smaller chunks makes it less burdensome. Of course throughout the week, check for basic maintenance; countertops, kitchen spills and pet hair, etc. This schedule is a framework you can use to create your own plan and make sure your home is always clean.

Tips For Hiring A Contractor

Regardless of whether your project is a simple bathroom remodel or a complete house renovation, the success or failure of the project will depend on the contractor you hire. Choosing the right contractor is easier than you think, but you have to do your due diligence.

• Check their License – Make sure you check their contractor’s license and that it’s in good standing. Ask and check those of the subcontractors as well.

• Insurance – Ask for proof of insurance and check that it’s still active and valid.

• Check References – Ask for references and call them. Ask to go see a project or two and

  ask strong questions about timing, quality, responsiveness and cost.

• Get it In Writing – Finalize the scope of work before you start anything, in writing. A

  proper contract should be on letterhead and include clear timelines and benchmarks, as

  well as payment schedules and how completion will be signed off.

• Do not Pay for Materials – If you absolutely have to pay for materials, have them

  delivered to your property and verify the receipt to show they were delivered in full.

• Only Pay the Contractor – Under no circumstances should you make a payment to

  anyone other than the contractor itself. Do not pay a person, only the company.

• Final Payment only When Satisfied – Do not make the final payment until you’re

  completely satisfied with the result.

Things Out of Your Control When Selling

Do you feel like things are out of control? If you’ve listed your home for sale every day might feel this way. But that’s not what we’re talking about here. The truth is there are really things sellers can’t control. But don’t worry; even though you can’t control everything, there are ways to deal with these unknowns.

• Buyers – Oh if only we could control buyers. They show up at odd times, they write crazy offers, they make odd repair requests and they can be difficult. One time a deal fell through because a Feng Shui Master didn’t like the color of the kitchen.

• The Market – Market forces determine so many things; interest rates and sales prices.While you can’t change these forces, you can get all the information you can so you’reprepared for how this affects the sale.

•  Inspectors – You’ve loved and cared for your home, but even so there could be hiddenissues that only a comprehensive, professional home inspection can uncover. One way to avoid unpleasant surprises is to put a listing home warranty in place to cover unexpected repairs.

• Appraisers – Appraisers are just people. On occasion they make mistakes in value. Your lender and agent will help you navigate an unfavorable appraisal. There are ways to combat a poor appraisal.

Selling your home can bring unexpected issues. If you’ve done your due diligence and hired a good agent, you’ll be able to handle the unexpected issues which are out of your control.

Items To Check Before A Home Inspection

Selling a home can be a stressful time, there is so much to think about; keeping the home clean, heading out on a moment’s notice to accommodate last minute showings, not to mention planning a move. It’s natural to feel overwhelmed.

Then you get that great offer and enter escrow. You’re relieved until you realize there’s a home inspection coming. Even a home meticulously maintained can have hidden issues. The good news is that you can prepare for the home inspection and make sure you pass with flying colors.

Items to Check before a Home Inspection

•   Doors, windows, cabinets and drawers – check that they slide smoothly

•   Run water in sinks, tubs and showers – snake any that drain slowly

•   Evidence of water leaks – Garage ceiling, under sinks, around water heaters, etc.

•   GFIs – check your local code and put GFI plugs where required

•   Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors must be in working order

•   Gutters and Roof – replace any missing roof tiles and clean gutters

•   HVAC – Consider a HVAC servicing to replace filters and check for problems

•   Water Heater – is it properly strapped and vented

•   Deferred maintenance – anything that has been neglected should be addressed before the home inspection

The best defense is a good offence. This is true in home inspections too! The best way to ensure you have a great home inspection is to have a prelisting home inspection. It could be the best couple hundred dollars you can spend – uncover the issues before the buyer does.

The Internet Can't Replace Your Agent

We live in the information age; the Internet offers advice on every topic and real estate is no exception. With more and more home buyers starting their home search online, they are bombarded with advice and information – it can be easy to think that you can learn everything you need to know just by reading articles online.

The truth is your real estate agent does much more than answer your questions and open doors with a special key. A professional real estate agent will be there every step of the way. They have the experience necessary to navigate the complicated home buying process and solve common hiccups that present themselves in every real estate transactions.

Your real estate agent is a local professional. They will start by presenting themselves to thebuyer’s agent as someone who will work with them to see the transaction through to a successful conclusion. They have a network of professionals who will work as a team to help you through the process. These include such professionals as: lenders, title reps, escrow officers, transaction coordinators, home inspectors, contractors and handymen, among others.

Most importantly, your agent is your ally in the home buying process. They negotiate on your behalf – armed with experience and understanding of customary charges, costs and terms. They will ensure that the price you pay for the home is fair for the condition and neighborhood. They will negotiate repairs, if needed and make sure you are protected with the proper contingencies.

The Internet offers lots of great information, but the most important step you can take when buying a new home, is hiring a local professional real estate agent. Their knowledge andexpertise can’t be found by reading an article or two online.

Storage and Staging Tips For A Small Closet

If you are preparing to sell your home, you already know about the concept of staging. While most people think about pretty flowers in the front yard and the perfectly set table in the dining room, the fact is that staging is much more than nice lifestyle elements. Staging issomething that should be considered throughout the home; it’s creating a scene in which yourbuyers can envision themselves living a beautiful life.

One of the most overlooked aspects of staging is the closet. All buyers will open drawers and closets, and when they do, you want them to see a spacious place for their belongings. Here are a few tips for staging your closet to attract buyers.

• Declutter and Remove – Yes that old adage about less-is-more when it comes to home staging is true here too. Remove anything you don’t absolutely need, such as wintercoats or hiking gear.

• Use Matching Hangers – This might sound odd, but replacing all your hangers which nice, new, matching hangers creates an organized look.

• Keep Floor Free – Nothing should be on the floor if at all possible. Place everything on a shelf if at all possible.

• Organize by Color – This is one of the easiest ways to make your closet seem more luxurious. Once you have them arranged by color, then group by length as well.

• Add Soft Lighting – Not too low, but gentle lighting makes the space seem bigger and more inviting.

Staging is essential to attract home buyers. As part of your overall strategy, remember closets, drawers and other small spaces which might not seem as important, but done well will make a big impact to your buyers.

Spring Cleaning Tips

Yes, it’s that time of year again. The annual spring cleaning. The weather is warming up and it’s a sign to freshen up your home for the upcoming seasons.

Not sure where to start? Read on to find tips to make your spring cleaning easy and effective.

Clean Room-By-Room

This is a great approach to make sure you’re not forgetting to clean other parts of the house. Create a checklist to the areas in each room that need an extra deep clean since they’ve been neglected during the winter. The areas that have been cleaned recently can be skipped.

Clear the Clutter

Get rid of the things that are not needed and get organized. Follow a process and create piles for the things that are going to trash, going to be given away, or stored.

Now is also a great time to have a garage sale or donate the items that are not needed.

Seasonal Chores

Patios, grills, and windows that have been ignored during the winter, need special attention now.

Remove the excess grease from the grill and scrape off anything that has been leftover. Clean sliding doors and make sure to wipe down both sides of the window. Spray down patio furniture and use a handheld vacuum for any chair cushions.

Ask for Some Help

The more people that help, the faster it gets done.

Keep Cleaning Supplies Minimal

Stores offer so many cleaning supplies but there is no need to get all of it. Keeping it minimal will help you feel less overwhelmed and you don’t have to clean up so much afterward. Stick to a good all-purpose cleaner and microfiber cloths.

Establish Cleaning habits

On-going cleaning habits can make the next spring cleaning easier. Clean up routines practiced every few days and quick chores can keep your home tidy for the most part.

Follow these tips to make it an easy spring cleaning every year!

Reasons Your House Has Expired

There’s nothing more discouraging than having your listing expire. You’ve gone to all thetrouble of staging your home, spending weekends and evenings running out the door to accommodate last minute showings and have nothing to show for it. The good news is thereare real reasons why your home didn’t sell. Understanding these reasons can help you dothings differently when you relist.

• Condition – Most home buyers are able to see beyond slight imperfections, but it’simportant to offer a clean, neat home free from chipping paint, clutter and debris.

• Photographs – Most of today’s buyers start their home online, you must showcase yourhome through media first in order to entice the buyers to make an appointment.

• Price – One of the worst things a seller can do is “test the waters.” Many buyers willwrite off the home because they view you as unrealistic. After a listing has been on the market for a while, buyers then assume there is something wrong with the home, when in fact the sellers are just waiting for an offer.

• Poor Exposure – Homes don’t sell themselves, buyers need to see the home. Makeshowings easy by using a lockbox and holding open houses.

• Wrong Agent – Not all agents are alike. The agent needs to be actively involved in the sale, not simply waiting for offers to land in their inbox.

Avoid the frustrating experience of having your home listing expire by understanding ahead of time the possible issues which can cause the listing to sit on the market. Knowing the possible pitfalls reduces the chance of an expiring listing and helps you sell your home for a great price and terrific terms.

Real Estate Advice You Should Ignore

Buying or selling your home is a big decision. It’s natural to have questions, but how can you tell if the information and advice you receive is accurate to your situation? Not only can you find bad information online but it might come from unexpected sources, like your friends, your family and even your agent. Here are a few of terrible real estate advice that you should ignore each and every time.

• You’ll save money if you don’t work with an agent – Both buyers and sellers fall into this trap, but bottom line, a good agent will save both parties money through their market knowledge and negotiation skills.

• Determining your price by online estimates – Online home value estimates, such as Zillow’s Zestimates, are just that – estimates. Ask a local agent for a comprehensive market analysis to really understand the property value.

• No need to update/repair, buyers will do that – While there is some truth to the idea that buyers will want to upgrade to suit their taste, it’s critical to offer a clean, well- maintained home with some modern amenities.

• Any agent can open a door – If that’s all they did, yes, any agent can open a door. The right agent will find the best possible terms and price for their clients.

Priority Tasks When You Move In

You did it. You moved into a new home you love and now you’re dreaming of how you’re going to decorate it. But before getting into all of that, there are still some other tasks that need to be at the top of your priority list.

Changing the Locks

Double check them even if you’ve been told that there are new locks installed. It’s better to take safety measures and know that no one else has keys to your home. Call in a locksmith if you want to spend a little money or it can be done yourself.

Call an Exterminator

A great exterminator can take care of any pests that have been lurking in your home.

Get the House Cleaned up

If it isn’t already, clean out the refrigerator, wipe down counters, cabinets, oven if needed, and plumbing fixtures. Prior occupants might have had pets or young children so it’s best to steam clean. This will free your floors of any junk or allergens.

Mechanical Equipment Cleaned

Getting your heating and cooling systems cleaned is crucial and make sure to get a service contract just in case it stops working suddenly.

Get some Closet Organizers

Keep in mind of where everything is going to get placed so it can accommodated in your closet space. A shelf or a coat hook can go a long way for making room for organization.

Meet the Neighbors

You want to reach out to your neighbors as soon as possible. It’s good to establish yourself within the community and you can get advice on some home repairs like which plumber to use.

Having these as priorities will help you move into a clean, working home. And then, you’re ready to move in with all your belongings and start making it yours!

Top Reasons You Need Your Own Agent When Buying New Construction

Have you ever walked into the model home showroom of a brand new housing development? There is nothing more exciting than the prospect of building a home from scratch and starting absolutely fresh in a new space. You get to pick the colors of the carpet, choose the countertops and flooring and watch as the home goes up. The nice sales people in the showroom are happy to help you through the process, but did you know that you can bring your own real estate agent to represent you? Yes you can and here are the top reasons why you should have your own agent.

• Choose the Right Development – It’s not enough to find a lovely development;understanding the neighborhood and schools play a big part of home values.

• Choose the Right Lot – You might love the corner lot, but your agent can help you consider resale before you buy.

• Consider the Cost of Upgrades – Not all upgrades should be handled through the sales office; your agent can help you understand customary costs for upgrades.

• Contact Negotiation – Did you know that the price and terms of new construction homes can be negotiated? Your agent can get you the best deal.

• Contact Review – Your agent will ensure everything is written correctly in the contract.

• Home Inspection – Your agent will arrange a professional home inspection.

• Your Agent is Free – All this representation and help, yet the home development pays their commission.

New home construction is fun! Take advantage of all the benefits having your own agent representation brings and let the housing development pay for it.

Living Room Design Trends

The living is room one of the most used rooms in your house and its decoration is essential to captivate those who step foot in it while also staying on trend.

Read on to discover the latest trends in living room design while also adding some new features that make your home unique to you.

Bold Plants

Situating big plants into your living room can make eye-catching statements. However, be mindful of how much sunlight and water they need, and let that guide you on where to place them in your living room.

Painted Ceilings

Homeowners are starting to become daring as they are taking into consideration painting the ceiling of their rooms. When choosing to paint, keep in mind the 10-30-60 rule. For example, 60% is the main color of the room taking most of the walls and large accent furniture. The 30% is the secondary color that takes up about half of the color in the room and includes items like draperies and small accent chairs. The remaining 10% is the accent color and takes up the colors in your throw pillows and other small decorative pieces.

Bold Colors

Colors like burnt orange, deep red, blues, and navy are becoming popular when decorating. Make sure there is balance by adding more neutral colors such as white or gray.

Geometric

Geometric patterns are becoming popular in livings rooms by using them in coffee tables, carpets, and wallpapers. They will make a room more alluring and aesthetically pleasing. You can also incorporate this pattern on your floors or even a large area rug.

Multi-Functional Spaces

The “less is more attitude” is also making a statement. Your living room can incorporate furniture that can be used for other purposes, such as using an ottoman as a storage place. Your living room can also serve as a tiny bedroom by getting sofa beds.

Metallic

Bronze, chrome, gold have the touch to make your living room look luxurious. One of the ways to incorporate them is through your furniture with metallic legs and other minimal decorative objects.

How To Lower Closing Costs

Closing costs help facilitate the sale of a home and both buyers and sellers pitch in. Some closing costs can be paid before the home is officially sold and others are paid at the end.

However, closing costs aren’t set into stone and they can be negotiable. You can ask your real estate agent or lender with help in estimating your actual closing costs. Look over everything to make sure all the numbers are right and then you plan accordingly in how you’re going to lower them.

Loyalty Programs

Some banks offer assistance to buyers when they use them to help pay for the purchase. It’s a way for a bank to reward loyal customers.

Closing at the End of the Month

Schedule your closing at the end of the month so you don’t have to pay the per diem interest for so many days.

Get Multiple Quotes

Get estimates from different lenders because you’re looking for the best package of closing costs and interest rates. There might be something better out there.

Junk Fees

There may be some fees a lender charges that may be negotiable, such as origination fee, processing fee, or application fee. Make sure to ask if what you are being quoted is the best they can offer.

Title Costs

Sometimes title insurance and settlement are bundled together. You may be able to find a title and settlement company that is less expensive.

Negotiate With the Seller

You can try to negotiate with the seller in paying for some of your closing costs. Buyers can ask for credit or to cover lender expenses during the offer and negotiation process.

How Much Home Can You Afford?

“How much home can I afford”? This question is asked by almost all buyers, not just first timehome buyers. With changing interest rates, homeowner association fees, assessments andrising home prices, it’s natural to wonder what you can actually spend on a new home.

The best way to answer this question definitively is to speak with your lender. They will ask you questions about your income, your assets, your down payment, local property taxes, home owner insurance, credit ratings and additional debt. Your loan officer will also talk with you regarding your down payment and current interest rates.

Interest rates affect affordability more than most other considerations. As the cost to borrow money rises, the amount of loan available lessens and this means the buyer can qualify and afford less of a home. While loan programs vary, there are basic guidelines which most lenders follow.

Most conventional loan programs look at two things: the proposed mortgage amount and your total monthly debt obligations. The mortgage payment includes principal, interest, taxes and insurance and lenders expect this payment to be no more than 35% of your monthly gross income. The total debt each month should be no more than 45%. Total debt includes your mortgage payment plus monthly recurring debt such as credit card debt, car payments, student loans, etc. – anything that might be considered long term payments.

Combined, these items go into determining how much you can borrow and thus how much you can afford. The first step to understanding your specific situation is to find a lender you can trust and talk with them about your needs.

Is It Time To Move? 6 Tell Tale Signs

Most people dread the thought of moving, yet those same people love it when they move. Why? Most likely it’s emotional attachment and nostalgia for a beloved home. It’s understandable but yet a home that just doesn’t fit your needs any longer can make even the most loved home uncomfortable.

Are you wondering if it’s time to move? Here are 6 telltale signs that you should consider putting the “for sale” sign up in your front yard.

1. Your Home is Too Small–One of the most common signs is that you’ve outgrown your home.

2. Your Home is Too Large–Life changes! Empty nesters often find the home too large and it’s maintenance too much when they finally have time to travel and relax.

3. Your Home is Too Expensive–Are you spending all your extra cash making repairs or do you want major upgrades to suit your lifestyle?

4. The Neighborhood is Losing Value–Neighborhoods do change over time, if your is declining consider a move.

5. Changing the Weather–Have you finally tired of shoveling snow? A move to a warmer state could be the right move.

6. Change is Good–The last great reason to move is to try something new. Different style or location, if the home isn’t making you happy any longer, time to move.

Home Buying Myths

Buying a home can seem like a huge undertaking. You don’t need to be a first time homebuyer to find the process overwhelming. There is so much information available, how can youtell what’s true and what’s a myth? Understanding the difference can help you make the best decision for you and your family goals.

Top Home Buying Myths – And the Truth

• The First Step is finding the Right House – Before you head out shopping, speak with a lender to understand your financial options and how much house you can afford.

• You Can’t Buy a Home Without Perfect Credit – The truth is there are many loans available which still offer good interest rates for those without that perfect score.

• You Need 20% Down Payment – First time home buyers can use FHA financing for as low as 3.5% down. There are other programs too, such as VA and some conventional loans with less than 20% down also.

• You Don’t Need an Agent – An agent not only knows the market and can help you with value, but also customary charges, negotiations and solutions to common hiccups.

• Schools Don’t Matter if you don’t have Kids – The neighborhood is always important to home values, regardless of whether you yourself have children.

• New Homes Don’t Need a Home Inspection – Every home should have a home inspection by a licensed inspector to check for existing or potential problems.

Buying a home is one of the most important financial decisions you’re likely to make in yourlifetime. Take the time you need to understand the process and learn from the professionals; don’t assume that everything you read is true.

Determining the Right Paint Finish

Paint is one of the easiest ways to change the feel of a room – or even a home. A fresh coat of paint in a trendy color can update a room in an instant. Choosing the color is only one aspect of picking the right paint; the finish or sheen is also important to the look and feel of the space.

Flat Finish

Flat finishes is exactly like it sounds – flat. There is no sheen at all. Today’s matte finishesreflect rich tones and are much more luxurious than the dull finishes of the past. Use for:

• Ceilings

• Dining Rooms

• Formal Living Rooms

• Adult Bedrooms

Satin Finish

Satin finishes have just a slight sheen. These finishes reflect the light softly and provide a richer look and feel than flat paint. These are better for high traffic locations than flat.

• Halls

• Baseboards

• Family Rooms

• Children’s Bedrooms

Semi-Gloss

Semi-gloss provides even more shine. These paints can make a room seem larger by providing a slight gleam from the painted surfaces. Easy to clean, a semi-gloss paint works well in areas frequently cleaned.

•   Kitchens

•   Bathrooms

•   Closet Doors and Cabinets

•   Stair Rails and Banisters

Gloss

A high gloss paint is the brightest available. These paints bring out the truest color of the paint and provide a durable finish for areas you wish to highlight. A high gloss paint works well for accents.

• Wood Trim

• Doors

• Furniture

Each of these types of finishes has variations as well. Today’s paints are more luxurious withdeep, rich pigments and more durable elements. Choosing the right color and finish can bring freshness and modernity to any room or home.

What to Look for in a New Home Builder

You’ve found the perfect patch of land and now you’re ready to build your new home, from scratch. The right home builder is the key between a beautiful custom home and a project filled with delays and extra costs – a money pit. If you don’t have a great builder on speed dial, how can you find a good new home contractor? Here are a few tips for making sure you get the best builder for your project.

• Build a List of Options – The first step is to find local builders who create homes which suit your lifestyle and taste.

• Do Your Homework – Ask for references and take your time in doing your due diligence. Ask for past clients who will be willing to meet with you and show you the actual homes they have built. Ask about the process and if they finished on time. Ask about problems and find out how the builder solved them.

• Learn About the Subcontractors – A strong builder works with the best craftsmen in the area. Ask about the subcontractors and interview them and check their references as well.

  Learn all you can about the builder and their projects. Make sure the homes are built with solid materials and construction techniques. Before you choose anyone, you should feel completely assured they will create a great home and completely understand your vision.