Imagine the excitement as you walk through your new home a few days before closing! Your joy however quickly turns sour when you discover the antique chandelier you fell in love with has vanished. Now imagine you’re the sentimental seller packing up the chandelier your grandmother passed down to you when the angry buyer calls…
Decorating your home for the holidays is a fun, festive tradition but if your home’s on the market, it’s important that buyers are still able to imagine themselves living there. Here are a few staging tips to help make sure your home doesn’t appear too cramped or cluttered during this busy time of year: Curb…
If you’re tired of renting but can’t quite scrape together a down payment for a home of your own, you may need to get creative. One option is to purchase a property with a friend or relative. Co-ownership makes it so much easier to buy a home as you’re able to share the down payment…
A “green home” not only helps protect the environment, but it also yields long-term financial benefits. Here are a few environmentally friendly ideas to consider if you’re looking to update your home: Floor It – Consider naturally durable, environmentally friendly flooring options such as cork, reclaimed wood or bamboo. No Tanks – A tankless water heater may…
When you move, it’s important that your pets feel relaxed and content. Here are a few tips to help ensure your move goes smoothly: List It – Create a detailed checklist to help avoid any last-minute stress that your pets may pick up on. Vet the Vet – If you’re moving out of town, ask your vet…
Arranging a mortgage is a huge financial decision, so it’s important to be organized and do plenty of research before you sign on the dotted line. Here are a few points to consider: Know Your Numbers – A budget will provide confidence and peace of mind, so examine your finances to determine exactly what you can…
Real estate agents use their negotiation skills to help both parties move towards a common goal. They are, however, an important skill that everyone can take advantage of. The principles are the same whether you’re negotiating a raise with your boss or a curfew with your teenager. Here are a few techniques to consider: Silence…
Home sales usually surge come springtime as the fresh, sunny weather encourages people to fix up their homes and check out what else is on the market. Here are a few ways to take advantage of spring fever: Flower Power – Place a few vases of fresh cut flowers throughout your home. Clutter Control – Decide what…
Opportunities usually come out of the blue. For instance, there might be a temporary work contract that forces you to relocate. Or perhaps a strong buyer’s market means it’s a great time to buy, but you don’t want to be forced to sell your current home at a loss. Renting your home might be an…
No one can say for sure what’s around the corner when it comes to the real estate market but there are steps you can take ahead of time to prepare yourself. If you’re currently considering home ownership, here are a few points to consider: Planning Makes Perfect – It’s important to plan ahead so research local…