Buying a house is a significant endeavor, but selling one is also a considerable process. Everything from new real estate trends to knowing if you should hire an agent or not can have an impact on your sale. Another point to keep in mind is that presentation matters. To make the best possible impression, check out these tips for showing your home to potential buyers.
Real estate showing
A real estate showing is an opportunity to show the buyers the strengths of your property. For a buyer, it is one of the crucial moments upon which they will base their final decision. With this in mind, it’s easy to see why sight-unseen sales are so rare. Buyers will come to look around your property, and you need to make an effort to show them why they should buy it. If you present your home in the best light, it’ll be easier for buyers to imagine themselves living there, and this is sometimes all that matters. Since these sales are significant and should be based on logic, sometimes a feeling or a hunch can push the buyer in a particular direction.
Ensure that you’re aware of the experience that your potential buyers are going through as soon as they enter your home. Follow these tips to make their experience more memorable.
This is the right time to make an impression.
Small renovations
Should you renovate your home, or should you sell it as is? This is a common question people ask themselves when selling their home. They don’t want to go through a home renovation project if it doesn’t pay off, and that’s something everyone can understand. However, keep in mind that sometimes you don’t have to do a major renovation to make a big difference. Before you start, create a step by step plan and stick to it. This will help you not spend more on your renovations than you’ve initially planned.
Touch-ups and repainting
If you have carpet flooring in your home, you don’t have to swap it for hardwood. However, as the carpets are likely to show signs of aging, you can shampoo or change them. Repainting will also freshen up your home, and it’s not too big of an investment. Bold color choices are not the best option here, as not everyone likes them. Even with neutral colors, one, two, or three colors are more than enough for the entire home.
Another good thing to do is to replace old fixtures. Door handles and light switches are inexpensive but can make a big difference. And while you don’t pay attention to these details anymore, be sure that most potential buyers will.
Take care of the exterior
The lawn is one of the first things the buyers notice when they enter your property. Ensure your lawn is well manicured and that the exterior will not contradict the experience the buyers will have inside your home. This means that your front porch or stoop should be clean, as well as the walkway. If you have some plants or flowers, they show that you regularly take care of them. You can use fertilizer to revive a tired lawn, and if bushes need some cutting, take care of that before you start showing your house.
The exterior is just as important.
Clean your house
You might’ve come to realize that a ‘clean house’ is not the same for everyone. If you’re not hiring a professional cleaning company, ensure that your home is clean, even for a germaphobe’s standards. Viewing a messy and dirty home leaves a terrible impression, even though it’s not too hard to clean a house after buying. Knowing its importance, you should make sure that your home is in tip-top share for as long as it’s on the market. This means that you’ll have to clean it even in-between showings. Even more so, having in mind that it’s not a good idea to ask potential buyers to take their shoes off at the door.
Clear the clutter
Remove any unnecessary items to create a minimalist look. You want your home to look larger and to be easy to walk through. This means that it’s better to remove any personal items, like photos, mementos, or valuables. But, having in mind that you probably still haven’t contacted the professionals found at Verified Movers to transport your belongings, it can be hard finding the right place for them at this point. You can put these extra items in bins and assign each room or a family member a container. But, be careful about valuables and ensure they’re somewhere safe.
Tuck away cords and remove unnecessary decorative elements. If an item is in sight, make sure it serves a purpose. Pillowcases, artwork, or candles can emphasize a particular part of a room and remove focus from other areas. With this in mind, use these tricks wisely and sparingly.
A well-lit space looks more inviting.
Comfortable temperature
Make sure that the temperature in your home is at an optimal level so that you can create a welcoming atmosphere. An airless environment on a hot day or a cold house on a cold day will make the buyers uncomfortable. It will also leave them wondering if the cooling or heating systems are working, no matter what you say.
It doesn’t end with showing your home to potential buyers
It’s good to prepare for the process of showing your house to potential buyers. However, keep in mind that it doesn’t end here, especially if you have multiple offers. Knowing how to handle getting multiple offers on your home is also part of this process. It’s good to know what details you should consider to make a favorable decision and choose the right offer.
Saying goodbye
There is no reason not to say goodbye the right way. You can put a small note thanking buyers for coming and put it in a candy bowl on their way out. If a buyer needs time to evaluate and think, don’t follow them and describe additional amenities or features.
A thank you note is a good way to say goodbye.
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Fredericksburg, Stafford, Orange, Locust Grove, Culpeper, Northern Virginia or even Maryland or DC, we are your Real Estate team committed to finding the perfect home for you! Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar, and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, one of our area expert advisors will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.
To see available properties, please visit our website licatagroup.com
With mortgage interest rates hitting record lows, homebuyer demand remains strong — even in the midst of a global pandemic. And if you’re ready to take advantage of this situation by listing your home in the near future, there are some steps you can take to do it as quickly and safely as possible. Check out the eight resources below for some tips on finding an experienced listing agent, preparing your home for the housing market, and staying safe and healthy while showing your home to buyers amid COVID-19.
As you get ready to list your house, you’ll need to spend some time making a few home repairs and improvements — as doing so will help you to sell your home much more quickly. However, an experienced real estate agent can help you to determine which upgrades are worth completing — while also walking you through the entire process of selling your home in the age of the coronavirus. With these helpful resources and a great listing agent at your disposal, you’ll sell your home as quickly and safely as you possibly can.
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Fredericksburg, Stafford, Orange, Locust Grove, Culpeper, Northern Virginia or even Maryland or DC, we are your Real Estate team committed to finding the perfect home for you! Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar, and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, one of our area expert advisors will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.
To see available properties, please visit our website licatagroup.com
The days are getting longer, temperatures are starting to climb, and the trees are finally starting to turn green again. As spring approaches, it’s a great time to freshen up your decor and add a splash of color to your space. Looking for some quick, easy, and affordable design tips? Here are a few ways to welcome spring into your home…especially if you’re thinking about selling in the next few months!
Our Top Spring Decor Tips
Do Some Spring Cleaning
Before you make any decor updates, it’s crucial to get every inch of your home looking pristine. Spring cleaning involves more than just a little scrubbing—you should take some time to reorganize, too!
If you’re feeling a little overwhelmed, just start by working room by room and removing any clutter. It may also be beneficial to make “keep,” “donate,” and “throw away” piles to ensure that everything stays in order. After you’ve freed up some space, break out the cleaning supplies and banish any dust, cobwebs, and grime. Don’t have time to do it all yourself? Consider hiring a professional cleaner or organizer.
Incorporate a Little Greenery
Want to breathe new life into your home? Take some inspiration from nature! Adding freshly-cut or potted flowers and greenery can turn your house into a home—and if you’re selling, your buyers might appreciate the extra pop of color.
If you’re not sure where to start, consider picking up a ready-made bouquet or some low-maintenance houseplants for your living room, kitchen, or bedroom. Placing them in trendy planters and decorative vases can create an added level of style. For a final splash of spring, try hanging a wreath of seasonal blossoms or greenery on your front door to welcome guests inside.
Add New Accessories
Take some time to get rid of your winter accessories and usher in a brand-new season. Light and bright colors, linens, textured pottery, and raw wood accents are all on-trend this spring, and adding these small details can really elevate your home’s style.
Start by incorporating some new accent pillows and paring down your current accessories in favor of a more curated collection. This is particularly important if you’re getting ready to sell; you’ll want to depersonalize your space, but it should still feel like a home. Hanging some different art on your walls can also help you transition to spring—we recommend floral prints or paintings.
Freshen Up with Inviting Scents
Is your home smelling a little musty after a long winter? Throw open the windows and freshen up with some invigorating scents…especially if you’ll be inviting buyers into your home.
Before you integrate spring fragrances, however, be sure to eliminate any unpleasant odors first. Once you’ve deodorized, swap out those holiday candles in favor of some fresher aromas. Lavender, fresh cotton, and lemongrass are all great choices, and they won’t be too overpowering.
Don’t Neglect Your Outdoor Space!
As you prep for the warmer months ahead, the outside of your home matters just as much as the inside. Your outdoor space can really make or break a sale during the spring, as buyers are probably ready to spend some time outside. Even if you aren’t selling soon, your yard, porch, deck, or patio could probably use a little extra attention.
Brush off the winter blues by sweeping away any debris, addressing brown spots on your lawn, and getting rid of any dead or wilting plants. You might also want to incorporate some new outdoor furniture on your deck or patio to show off its potential.
Ready To Sell Your Home This Spring?
If you’re looking for spring decorating tips because you’re planning on selling your home soon, we’d love to help you navigate every step of the process. Feel free to reach out to us for more staging strategies and seller tips—we can even help you list your home with just a few clicks!
If you ask a homeowner what it was like to buy their first home, they’ll probably mention a few things they’d change if they could do it all again. While it’s impossible to know everything about the home-buying process beforehand, you can still prepare yourself for what lies ahead—and figure out how to avoid some potential pitfalls. Not sure where to begin? Here are some key pointers to keep in mind before starting your search.
You’re Buying More Than a House
We all know the phrase “love at first sight,” and it can certainly apply to homes, too! Even if you step inside a home and instantly fall in love, it’s crucial to step back and consider the whole picture before making a purchase.
When you buy your first property, you’re investing in more than just four walls. It’s worth paying attention to things like a home’s location, neighborhood, and physical condition, too. Even if you find that open concept kitchen you’ve been dreaming of, it might not be the right fit if it’s in the wrong community or if the rest of the house requires out-of-budget repairs. It’s best to stay realistic and listen to your agent’s (and home inspector’s) advice. Remember, this is likely one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make, so spend your money wisely!
Down Payments Are Different for Everyone
So many would-be buyers are scared of homeownership for one reason: the down payment. Traditionally, you’d put down around 20% on a home and spend anywhere from 10 to 30 years paying your lender back. However, you actually have more flexibility than you might expect.
Depending on your credit history, location, and occupation, you could be eligible for loans that require as little as 0% down. However, making a larger down payment means you’ll pay less interest to your lender in the long run. Be sure to shop around for the right fit and reach out to your agent with any questions—they’re always available to help you out.
Prepare for Extra Expenses
Homeownership often comes with unexpected expenses, especially right after you move in. When you’re setting a budget for your big purchase, consider adding some wiggle room to allow for any additional and long term costs. You don’t want to realize that you can’t afford your home after you’ve purchased it!
Wondering what kinds of expenses can come up? Inspections, homeowner’s insurance, prepaid taxes and other various closing costs, HOA dues, and repairs are just a few possibilities. You’ll pay for some of these before or at the closing, but certain recurring costs will have to be factored into your monthly budget.
Get Pre-Approved Before You Start Searching
Once you’ve made the decision to buy, it’s tempting to start looking at listings right away. However, you might want to press pause and complete an essential step before you start scheduling showings. Getting pre-approved for your loan will show sellers and agents that you’re serious about buying—and it can tell you exactly how much you can afford to spend.
Ready to start the pre-approval process? First, you’ll want to get your finances in order and shop around for the right lender. Be sure to have all of your important documents on hand, such as your W-2 tax form, paystubs, and social security card. Most lenders allow you to apply online, and within a few business days, you’ll know whether you’ve been approved or not, as well as the conditions of the loan.
Are You a First-Time Buyer?
Buying your first home is a big deal, and it’s important to have the right agent by your side throughout the process. If you’re ready to start your search, feel free to reach out to us with any questions. We can’t wait to help jumpstart your journey to homeownership!
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Fredericksburg, Stafford, Orange, Locust Grove, Norther Virginia or even Maryland or DC, we are your Real Estate team committed to finding the perfect home for you! Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar, and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, one of our area expert advisors will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.
To see available properties, please visit our website licatagroup.com
Research is essential before renovation, as it will help you scope your options and choose quality.
When you plan to renovate your house, the
renovation is an investment in your home. When doing so, you are not only
fixing it and redecorating for yourself. You are also adding value to it
should you ever choose to sell it in the future. Furthermore, as renovating
your house is a form of investment, it should
definitely be well planned and thought out. In addition, as we continue
discussing this topic, we are also going to delve deeper. We will discover the 10 essential and beneficial things one should do before renovating a house.
Renovating a House 101
A written plan and a mood board will be so
helpful throughout the renovation.
Renovating a house can be a small project or a very big
one. Whether you are fixing a bathroom or redesigning the entire interior look
of your home, there are multiple elements to be
considered beforehand. Why is a renovation something you should not rush into?
The answer to this is because a single renovation should withstand time and
have the quality to it. This takes good research, a solid plan and professional
help, amongst many other details.
Tips 1 and 2
Meanwhile, what do you think the number one thing on the
list is? When renovating your house, our number one tip to do first is creating
a mood board. Gather images, samples of textures, materials and more and place
it all on a board to visually create a concept and style. Placing everything in
one spot will help you view what your renovation could possibly look like. A
mood board is also a great idea because sometimes it is difficult to imagine
patterns and textures and colors in your head at once. Having them one beside
the other will help you make decoration ideas as well.
Make sure you set a budget before your renovation so that you don’t exceed your financial limits.
While we are on this topic, the mood board also ties into
our second tip. Placing everything on the board helps you create a visual plan,
which can also help you figure out your budget and the limits of it. Entering a
renovation without conceptualizing your finances and having a budget is a bad
idea altogether. You can get carried away and not even realize how much you are
actually spending. Moreover, adding the cost of all your ideas will help you
understand where you stand and how much you would like to spend on renovating
your house.
Tip 3
Now that you have an idea of what your renovation could
become visually, sit down and create a plan. This plan should consist of all the
changes you plan to implement within your home. Any necessary fixes and
additions you would like to see, along with the timeline of all of this. A
solid list with a good schedule will help you down the road and keep this
renovation organized.
Tip 4
A team of professionals will help guide you
through this process with beneficial advisement.
Consult with a team of professionals. If renovating your
house becomes a big project and you are unsure as to how to proceed, hire a
reliable contractor and decorator to help you. A team of professionals will
know and understand the standards and laws they must adhere to, taking that
stressful aspect away from your to-do-list. Additionally, a team of
professionals will also help you visualize your renovation and help you
understand the possibilities of your house. Sometimes the layout of the house
might not allow you to break down a wall, or add something, and it is good to
know ahead of time what you can do and what you cannot.
Tip 5
Renovating your house is easier if you move your
furniture out and have an empty space to work with. Whether you are renovating
a home you plan to stay in, or are renovating a house in another city, take
care of your furniture and belongings ahead of time. Meanwhile, if you are
moving away, we advise on getting your household belongings to another state before you start renovating. Place your belongings in
storage and keep them there until you complete and finish your new house.
Tip 6
Once your house is furniture free, our next tip is to
scope out space. Once you can evaluate the empty space, it will enable you to
visualize all the possibilities of your renovation. You could also check back
with your mood board and written plan to see if all of that can be done within
the dimensions your space allows you.
Tip 7
When it comes to the fun shopping part, don’t purchase
the first option you come by. If you are going to the hardware store on your
own, talk to the department associate there as they can advise you on the best
options. That way you won’t buy the wrong thing or spend more money than you
should have.
Tip 8
Don’t forget to prep your house for renovating. Details
such as priming the walls before painting them are crucial for the wall color.
Priming the walls creates a better canvas for wall paint and helps the paint
look fresher and stay on for longer.
Tip 9
Check your renovation timeline once again to ensure that
most things will run on schedule. Once you have your belongings in storage,
it’s also beneficial to know that your renovations will be timely so that it
all works out.
Tip 10
Our last but not least tip of this topic is good
communication. This is important before renovating your house but also just as
important throughout the renovation. Good and open communication with your
contractor or whomever you are renovating your house with is very important so
things would run smoothly and successfully.
In Progress
Simply being on top of everything, communicating and
being guided by your plan will be more than enough for a successful renovation.
Stay on schedule, and enjoy this investment into your new home.
Author’s Bio
Troy Thompson is a 35-year-old teacher, with experience in renovations and decorating homes. Not only is he a fan of HGTV, where he has learned a lot about renovating a home from various TV shows, but he has also moved a few times and renovated a few homes with his girlfriend. Troy loves sharing his advice for unexperienced renovators and hopes that his tips will help someone get started and learn more.
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Fredericksburg, Stafford, Orange, Locust Grove, Norther Virginia or even Maryland or DC, we are your Real Estate team committed to finding the perfect home for you! Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar, and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, one of our area expert advisors will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.
To see available properties, please visit our website licatagroup.com
Here are 6 steps to staging your house and some other tips & tricks as well!
Are you selling your home? Has an agent ever called you to tell you they have a potential buyer on the way ???
Check out the video below that gives you some tips & tricks to staging your home at the last minute!
If you need any help with staging or would like to learn more about this, contact Pat Licata today!
