So, here’s a question for you. Would you rather walk into a clean home or a dirty one? No, it’s not a trick question but it is an important one. You see, when it comes to selling a home, many people forget how important the answer to that question really is. Sellers get busy looking for their new home, preparing the kids for a move, packing up their belongings, getting organized for their new life and relocation so much that sometimes their home that’s for sale doesn’t get the TLC that’s needed to push it to the top of the buyers’ must-have list. Read more
Author: Joan Byrnes
Inspect for These Potential Household Hazards
Lead
If you’re buying a home that was constructed before 1978, consider some risks associated with lead. Lead can be found in paints, pipes, soils and dust. With this in mind, you may discover lead on windows and window sills, doors and door frames, stairs, banisters, porches and fences. If you notice peeling paint in an older home, contact a professional to make sure it’s lead-free. Removing paint yourself may pose an even greater risk to you and your family. Keep in mind that children are most susceptible to lead poisoning. Be certain that they stay away from contaminated areas. For more information on the risks involved with lead, consult the National Lead Information Center (NLIC). Read more
The Extended and Expanded Homebuyers Tax Credit
Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or a long-time homeowner, Congress recently extended and expanded a home-buying tax credit for which you may qualify.
Current Homeowners…
If you’re an existing homeowner and would like to sell a principal residence (a location where you spend more than 50% of your time) that you’ve lived in consecutively for 5 of the past 8 years, then you may qualify for a tax credit of up to $6,500 on the purchase of a home between November 7, 2009 and April 30, 2010.
Qualifications… Read more
Build the Perfect Home Office
A recent survey showed that more and more people are working remotely, according to the National Association of Realtors®. If you fall into this group, or are just looking to prepare your home for sale and want to make room for a home office, follow these tips:
Find the Right Spot
There’s a lot to consider when finding the right spot for your home office. Ideally, you want enough room for your desk, chair and at least one filing cabinet. You also want to be comfortable where you work, so a tight, cramped office won’t do. If possible, find a room with a closet to store supplies. Also, make sure to choose a location that is away from distractions. Avoid rooms near a TV or kitchen. Finally, remember to pick a room with enough electrical outlets and Internet access. When choosing the latter, go with wireless. The quick connection will save you time and frustration and you won’t have to worry about the extra cords. Read more
What Is Your Home Worth?
Market value is the amount prospective buyers are willing to pay at the time homeowners are ready to sell. Now you may ask – how do I find out the market value of my home? Well, the best way to ensure that you get the best price is to obtain an honest Comparable Market Analysis (CMA). You can get a CMA from your qualified, professional real estate agent. Read more
Make Your Home Easier to Buy
By making it easy for buyers to learn everything there is about your home and neighborhood, you can actually influence the sale. Working with an agent who is very familiar with your neighborhood will help ensure that these details are well-marketed to potential buyers. You should also be sure to share any key information about your home or neighborhood with your listing agent so he or she can use it to more effectively. You’ll also want to make sure that your agent provides as much information about your home as possible – on the Web. Time -starved home buyers like to use the Web as a convenient way to hasten the home search process. Read more