When buying a home -- whether
it's your first, second, or a getaway vacation home -- you're
bound to have many questions. For example, how will you
find a home that suits your needs? How much money will you
need to afford the monthly payments? And how long will the
home buying process take?
Sound familiar? If so, you've
come to the right place. Our web site offers a wealth of
information about the home buying process. Begin your journey
by discovering the benefits of working with a real estate
professional. Types of mortgages, how to apply for a mortgage,
and finding a lender are a few other factors you should
know about before purchasing your dream home.
While the experience can be
filled with ups and downs, if you contact us, we'll put
you in touch with a qualified real estate professional who
will guide you through the entire process.
Selling a Home
When selling your home there
are no guarantees that a buyer will simply walk through
the front door. In many cases you may have to bring your
home to the buyer. Effective marketing will help ensure
that your property receives maximum exposure to attract
a ready, willing and able buyer.
The appearance of your home,
a buyer's first impressions, and other considerations can
also affect the sale of your home. Be sure to explore tips
for increasing your home's value. Have you considered that
home prices in your neighborhood and the value of your property
are also factors used for pricing your home?
When you work with a Century 21 Assurance Realty Ltd.
Real Estate Professional, you can count on a specialist
who can answer your questions, apply his or her in-depth
knowledge of current market conditions, and access extensive
resources that can expedite the sale of your home.
Increasing The Value of
Your House
When you're preparing your house for sale, remember the
importance of first impressions. The market isn't the only
factor that influences whether you get your asking price.
Appearance and overall condition play a major role. Here
are some easy things you can do to make your home more appealing
to buyers.
Outside:
It is estimated that more than
half of all houses are sold before the buyers even get out
of their cars. So stand across the street from your house
and review its curb appeal.
Sweep front walkway.
Remove newspapers, bikes and toys.
Park extra cars away from the property.
Trim back the shrubs.
Apply fresh, clean paint throughout.
Clean windows and window coverings throughout.
Keep plumbing and all appliances in working order.
Maintain all sealants (window, tub, shower, sink, etc.)
in good condition.
Make sure roof and gutters are in good condition; no repairs
needed.
Mow the lawn more frequently and plant flowers.
Keep pet areas clean.
Inside:
Kitchen and bathroom should
shine.
Quick once-over with the vacuum; carpets should be clean.
Place fresh flowers in the main rooms.
Put dishes away, unless setting a formal display for decoration.
Make beds and put all clothes away.
Open drapes and turn on lights for a brighter feel.
Straighten closets.
Put toys away.
Turn off television.
Play soft music on the radio/stereo.
Keep pets out of the way and pet areas clean and odor-free.
Secure jewelry, cash, prescription medication and other
valuables.
Enhance the spaciousness of each room. Pack away collectables
to allow buyer to envision own furnishings in home.
Important Reminders:
Potential buyers usually feel
more comfortable if the owners are not present.
If people unaccompanied by an agent request to see your
property, please refer them to your real estate professional
for an appointment.
Leave a number where you can be reached if you are leaving
town, even for a weekend.
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