Finishing Touches!

The reality today is that sellers do not want to spend big bucks to get their house up-to-par for buyers. The good news is there are plenty of ways they can do it for free or at a very low cost. For a detail report email me at conniespate@remax.net!


#1. Details:
Staging is great but if you do not want to do that then you need to get your home sparkling and clutter-free with just a little elbow grease. Clean is the new amenity most buyers are looking for. It goes a long way!!


Tips: Box it up. Don't wait! Sellers should begin to box up as early as possible, ideally before the home goes on the market.
Show off: Buyers will be impressed if the laundry room is fresh, inviting and organized. All lightbulbs need to be working.
Focus: Pick a focal point for each room. The buyers eyes should automatically be drawn to this area.


#2. Floors:
Hardwoods are on most buyers wish list. If you choose to update your floors to hardwood you may find less expensive hardwoods by going to a wholesaler or directly to a manufacturer. If you decide to use another choice you may try bamboo or vinyl which will imitate the look.


Tips: Call the experts. Dirty, worn carpet may benefit from professional cleaning.
Refinish: Practically any hardwood can be salvaged with refinishing. You may also call a professional tile company to freshen up ceramic tile grout or do-it-yourselfers can check hardware stores for grout paint.
Add a layer: You can do this by using an area rug, even over carpets. It adds a splash of color and brings definition to living areas. If replacing carpet, consider upgrading the carpet pad, which usually only adds approximately 50 cents more per square foot.


#3. Lighting:
New lighting fixtures are a quick way to create ambiance. Just avoid the brass finish of days gone by.  More contemporary choices are brushed nickel and oil-rubbed bronze. Use pendant lighting and under counter lighting to highlight special features.


Tips: Go natural. Open blinds and wipe down windows (remember squeeky clean!)  Use all your natural light to your advantage. Buyers love brightly lit rooms!
Save on energy: Compact fluorescent bulbs remain the go-to choice for energy efficiency. Buyers like seeing the opportunity save energy and money!
Don't forget: Don't forget the basement. Usually this area has problem with lack of adequate lighting. Added lighting will create a sense of airy space which will tie in with the upper levels of your home.


#4. Paint:
 A few gallons of paint can go a long way in making a home more chic--and the cost-effectiveness can not be beat!


Tips: Shine with Sheen. Satin or egg shell bounces light off the walls to make spaces seem larger. Semi-gloss, higher on the sheen level, is a good option for kitchens and bathrooms since it's easy to clean. Use gloss sparingly as it accentuates flaws.
Create: Use different variations fo the same color throughout the home to create harmony. Use the lighter colors in the main living areas and darker shades in the rooms that branch off the main livng area, such as bedrooms.
Paint the baseboards: Antique white or Navajo white are your better options. Be sure to prime your stained wood trim before painting.


***If you are interested I have an additonal "7 Ways to Create a Cohesive Style." Request it by email conniespate!@remax.net***

Market questions? I can help!

As we see the market change right in front of our eyes, there are still those of you who are hesitant to jump in there and take advantage of current trends. I would be glad to sit down with you, look at your present situation, and look at your hopes and dreams, and try to bring them to reality. I will be honest with you about your situation, and we will look at all alternatives. This is a great opportunity to own a home! There have been many times in history that were very similar to what we are experiencing in the real estate market at this time.  Unfortunately many look back with regret, at what was a great opportunity to make a move. If you want to know more about what our current market situation has to offer you, just give me a call with no obligation or no pressure! Don't look back at this time with regret! Maybe your time is now or maybe its later, but don't be afraid to call me and ask questions. I will look at your situation realistically and help you evaluate what your next move should be and when you should make it.