10 Low-Cost Tips to Improve Your Home's Appeal By Paige Tepping

RISMEDIA, August 10, 2010--When selling your home, the goal is to sell it quickly for the highest price while investing as little as possible in renovations. With a limited budget and a little effort, you can greatly increase your home's appeal by focusing on what prospective buyers can see on their first visit. The experts at BuyOwner.com offer the following recommendations for preparing a house for sale and staging it for showings.

Tip #1: Refresh the exterior
First impressions count when it comes to selling a home. Most buyers won’t even leave their car if they don’t find the exterior appealing. The best ways to improve your home’s exterior include:
-Repairing and/or replacing trims, shutters, gutters, shingles, mailboxes, window screens, walkways and the driveway.
-Painting siding, trim and shutters and lamp and mailbox posts.
-Pressure washing vinyl siding, roofs, walkways and the driveway.
-Washing windows.

Tip #2: Spruce up the lawn and landscape
Home buyers associate the condition of your lawn and landscaping with the condition of your home’s interior. By improving the outside, you affect buyers’ impression of the entire property. The best ways to enhance the yard include:
-Mowing and edging the lawn.
-Seeding, fertilizing and weeding the lawn.
-Keeping up with regular lawn maintenance by frequent watering.
-Trimming and/or removing overgrown trees, shrubs and hedges.
-Weeding and mulching plant beds.
-Planting colorful seasonal flowers in existing plant beds.
-Removing trash, especially along fences and underneath hedges.
-Sweeping and weeding the street curb along your property.

Tip #3: Create an inviting entrance
The front door to your home should invite buyers to enter. The best ways to improve your entry include:
-Painting the front door in a glossy, cheerful color that complements the exterior.
-Cleaning, polishing and/or replacing the door knocker, locks and handles.
-Repairing and/or replacing the screen door, the doorbell, porch lights and house numbers.
-Placing a new welcome mat and a group of seasonal potted plants and flowers by the entry.

Tip #4: Reduce clutter and furniture
A buyer cannot envision living in your home without seeing it. A home filled with clutter or even too much furniture distracts buyers from seeing how they can utilize the space your home offers. If you have limited storage space, you may want to consider renting a temporary storage unit to place items you wish to keep. The best ways to declutter your home include:
-Holding a garage sale to prepare for your move, getting rid of unnecessary items.
-Removing clutter such as books, magazines, toys, tools, supplies and unused items from counter tops, open shelves, storage closets, the garage and basements.
-Storing out-of-season clothing and shoes out of sight to make bedroom closets seem roomier.
-Removing any visibly damaged furniture.
-Organizing bookshelves, closets, cabinets and pantries. Buyers will inspect everything.
-Putting away your personal photographs, unless they showcase the home. Let buyers see themselves in your home.
-De-personalize rooms as much as you can.

Tip #5: Clean, clean, clean
The cleanliness of your home also influences a buyer's perception of its condition. The appearance of the kitchen and bathrooms will play a considerable role in a buyer's decision process, so pay particular attention to these areas. The best ways to improve these areas include:
-Cleaning windows, fixtures, hardware, ceiling fans, vent covers and appliances.
-Cleaning carpets, area rugs and draperies.
-Cleaning inside the refrigerator, the stove and all cabinets.
-Removing stains from carpets, floors, counters, sinks, baths, tile, walls and grout.
-Eliminating house odors, especially if you have pets.
-Considering air fresheners or potpourri.

Tip #6: Make minor repairs
The small stuff does count, especially with first-time home buyers. Without dismissing the importance of repairing major items such as a leaky roof or plumbing, you do not need to spend money on replacing these items. Instead, focus on the minor repairs that will make your home visually appealing. The best ways to improve your home include:
-Repairing ceilings and wall cracks.
-Repairing faucets, banisters, handrails, cabinets, drawers, doors, floors and tile.
-Caulking and grouting tubs, showers, sinks and tile.
-Adding fresh paint to ceilings, walls, trim, doors and cabinets.
-Tightening door handles, drawer pulls, light switches and electrical plates.
-Lubricating door hinges and locks.

Tip #7: Showcase the kitchen
The heart of any home is the kitchen. If you are going to spend any money on renovations, this is the one area where you will see the greatest return. Even with a modest budget, focusing on a few key areas can make a great difference in getting the asking price for your property. The best ways to showcase the kitchen include:
-Replacing cabinet doors and hardware.
-Installing under-cabinet lighting.
-Replacing light fixtures.
-Replacing outdated shelving with pantry and cabinet organizers to maximize space.
-Baking cookies or cupcakes for a showing, to create a homey smell.

Tip #8: Stage furniture
Furniture placement can enhance the space of your home while giving buyers an idea of how to best utilize the space with their own belongings. Take some time to rethink how different areas in your house could be used. Some ideas to think about include:
-Moving couches and chairs away from walls in your sitting and family rooms to create cozy conversational groups.
-Creating a reading corner in the master bedroom.
-Clearing an empty room to set up a reading space.
-Turning an awkward space into a home office.
-Setting the dining room table with your best china.
-Set wine glasses in front of the fireplace or next to a Jacuzzi tub.

Tip #9: Light up the house
Create a sense of openness and cheerfulness in your home through its lighting. To improve the lighting try:
-Opening shades and drapes to let the sunshine warm and brighten rooms.
-Installing brighter light bulbs in rooms that tend to be dark.
-Adding additional lamps for ambient lighting.
-Turning on all the lights for a showing.

Tip #10: Add fresh touches
You can easily add color and style to your home by adding fresh touches throughout. Some ideas to consider include:
-Placing fresh floral arrangements in the entry and master bedroom.
-Placing bowls of bright-colored fruit in the family room and the kitchen.
-Filling an empty corner with a potted leafy plant.
-Setting new hand soap in the bathrooms.
-Displaying fresh towels near sinks.

FIVE REASONS TO BUY NOW!

For Your Information: Five Smart Reasons to Buy a Home Now
RISMEDIA, July 30, 2010--The economy is stabilizing. Home prices are holding. It's not just as good a time as ever to buy a house. It's one of the best times ever.

ForSaleByOwner.com presents five overlooked reasons why now is a great time to buy a house.

1. Low mortgage rates serve as an equity shock absorber. When buyers borrow at today's record-low rates, they start building equity as soon as they close. That means they have a little give to absorb a few ups and downs as the still-recovering housing market gains traction.

2. Houses are in move-in condition. Homeowners have continued to spend on maintenance and repair, according to the Harvard Joint Center on Housing. Homeowners who have been holding back kept their houses in good shape while they waited. As those houses enter the market, they are in marked contrast to tattered foreclosures.

3. Terrific houses are coming on the market. Foreclosures are finally starting to clear the system – and this is just the opportunity that owners of many desirable properties have been waiting for.

4. Appraisal regulations are finally aligned with market realities. Fannie Mae has adjusted its appraisal guidelines...again. Now that appraisers have more flexibility to set values that reflect the current market, today's deals will make it over the finish line.

5. Plenty of programs. Homes are more affordable than they have been for years, but communities have stuck by "workforce housing" programs that encourage middle-class families to buy houses. Buyers who qualify can get a big boost by combining one of these programs with today's low mortgage rates.

Selling in Today's Marlet

It is definitely a different world in which we real estate professionals sell. The economy has impacted all areas of our lives. Our costs of doing business have sky rocketed and for most of us agents this means our profit margins are shrinking. Don't get me wrong, I'm not trying to feel sorry for myself, but I do believe it's important that clients understand that doing business for agents such as myself is not free. It's a risk or even a gamble I take every time I sign up a listing. And, it's a business decision whether or not I accept a listing.

How to better explain? When I hire the photographer to come take photos, that's money out of my pocket right away. Regardless of whether or not your property closes, I must pay the photographer. When I add your property to all those fabulous internet sites...that costs me money ..... up front. Newspapers ads? Money up front. Those fabulous brochures? Paid for out of my pocket. The mailings? The stager? Same thing. I can go on, but I think you get the idea. These are marketing tools that I as a professional Realtor choose to use for my client's benefit. These are not company offered services but agent (Dawn's) offered services. Again, please don't think I am complaining, I am not. I understand the calculated risk I am taking. But, I do want for clients and potential clients to know that all real estate agents are not the same.

I am a business woman and fully comprehend the stratgy of marketing. And, marketing has become the largest part of my job. A sign in front no longer works for me or for you as a Seller. We need to position your property to get in front of as many people as possible as effectively as possible and grab their attention. I do this through the above mentioned marketing tools, (plus many more!) and through correct market pricing.

In my opinion, experience in the real estate market has never been more important. In the past 18 years I have been lucky enough to see all markets and varying market conditions. Through this I have created a marketing plan that evolves to meet my client's goals and gets the job done. Consistently and persistently!

Historically Low Rates

Now really is the time to buy! The expiration of the tax credit did appear to slow down activity in the real estate market, but let's get real! The fixed rates offered today should more than make up for that! When you can get a 30 year FIXED mortgage for today's rates it is silly not to buy! Even the homes that you thought are out of reach are suddenly affordable. Monthly payments are significantly decreased when the interest rates are so low. It's worth taking a few minutes to contact a mortgage broker to see exactly what your monthly payment would be on that dreamhome! It's probably more attainable for you than at any other time. And even better....check out the idea of building! Yes, even that brand new home where you choose the cabinets, lighting, flooring (imagine getting what you actually want!!!) is attainable...I look forward to hearing from you soon! Make your dream a reality; it's closer than you think.

Tax Incentives

Time is running out on the tax credit for first time homebuyers. In order to qualify for this you must be in contract to purchase a new home by April 30, 2010! Closing must occur by June 30, 2010. Time is ticking and this is a great opportunity to buy! Rates are at historic lows, inventory is high, prices are aggressive; it's the perfect situation! If you think this is the year you are going to STOP paying your landlord's mortgage and START putting your hard earned money to work for you, why not get the extra advantage of a tax credit??

Whether you are looking for a first time starter home, a vacation home by the shore or building the home of your dreams, opportunities are here! Fantastic mortgage programs are available. For more information just call or e-mail me!

Happy Spring!!

Priced for Sale!

A new fantastic listing will be coming available starting tomorrow (March 19 2010)! If you, (or someone you know) have been looking for a place to call home consider this! A 2 bedroom, 1 1/2 bath townhome in the Milestone neighborhood in Glastonbury. This is an end unit with a new kitchen (you have GOT to see these cabinets!!), granite counters, stainless appliances, hardwood floors all for just $179,900!! Yes, truly priced to SELL!! Remodeled bath, gas heat....and still time to take advantage of the tax credit.

With 30 year fixed mortgage rates still at historic lows, this is the perfect opportunity to become a homeowner! There is a real pride you feel when you go home to something that is truly yours...a place you have worked hard for.....a comfort in knowing you made it happen.

I'd love to help you reach your real estate goals! Wishing you the very best,

Dawn
www.housesbydawn.net

Selling in Today's Market

We've all heard the reports...listened to it on the evening news..... or read it in the daily papers; the real estate market is suffering. But is it?? Houses are still selling, people are still moving, some are even investing in real estate! What's different today is that properties are not simply selling because an agent puts a sign in front or runs an ad in the newspaper. Agents must prove their worth. And, in my opinion it's about time! There are many of us who have worked hard, toiled through the years of various market conditions, have worked ethically and with integrity for our clients. The real estate market of today requires an agent work harder than in the past few years, invest in themselves as a professional and invest in their business including effective marketing to make their client's property stand out and above the crowd!!

In today's real estate market it is imperative to have an agent that is not only available, but also knowledgeable about the market. Real estate is probably one's largest lifetime investment. When selecting the agent who is going to help you through the process of buying or selling, choose wisely. Choose based on knowledge of the marketplace, experience in real estate sales and marketing, marketing programs, and yes honesty. It's easy to select the person who tells you what you want to hear, but ask yourself "is it realistic?". Overpricing your property actually COSTS you money and selecting an agent with no plan for marketing can cost you money too! When choosing your listing representative ask to see marketing materials or better yet, go visit open houses and see the agent in action! Check their office and personal websites. Take some time to investigate. Choose carefully and remember this person is representing YOU in one of your largest financial transactions of your life!

I wish you much SUCCESS!!
Dawn
housesbydawn@gmail.com
www.housesbydawn.net