Tuesday 30 April 2019

How to Productively Take Advantage of Online Communities

The internet is full of an unlimited amount of information, especially for homebuyers and sellers. If you’re planning to buy or sell your house, you probably know to check the usual places for information. You visit Zillow and other listing websites, you explore neighborhood information pages, and you even Google your own area.

 

While all of these are excellent sources of information, you might be overlooking one of the best resources for homebuyers or sellers. What resources is this? It’s actually online communities. Today, social networking sites are more than just a passing trend. They’re the new normal, and they’re how people get information.

 

There are a number of places to search for online communities in your area, whether you’re moving to a new town or you’re trying to sell in a difficult market. With over 50% of all homebuyers finding their home on the internet, you can’t ignore such a valuable resource. In this guide, we’ll explain how to productively take advantage of online communities.

 

How to take advantage of online communities when buying your home | social networks

 

Where Can I Find Online Communities?

First, let’s talk about where you can find online communities for homebuyers or sellers. You most likely already use some of these networks, and you just might not be taking advantage of them fully.

 

Unsurprisingly, Facebook and Instagram are great resources. On Facebook, you can often find local real estate pages and groups as well as neighborhood information groups. While you usually need to be living in one of these areas to join, you might be able to join if you’re considering living in an area. There are neighborhood groups that are specific to cities and groups that are specific to a local zip code.

 

On Instagram, you can search for local hashtags, follow real estate agents, and network with current influencers and leaders in the area. This is a great way to get a feel for the community as well as promote your home if you’re trying to sell.

 

Finally, an up-and-coming community network is Nextdoor. This is an app-based platform that uses your geographical location or home address to connect you with people who live nearby. While you need to live in the area to gain access to the community, this is an effective way to spread awareness about your home sale and ask questions about the community.

 

How Do I Use These Communities?

Now that you know where to find online communities that are specific to your area, let’s talk about how to productively take advantage of them. Nobody likes spam messages, and nobody wants to feel like you’re using the community to get something for yourself.

 

You’ll want to be neighborly and friendly in these online communities. Always read through any rules to make sure you’re following the guidelines appropriately. Beyond that, consider taking any of the following actions:

 

  • Promote your home sale
  • Ask questions about the local neighborhood
  • Ask for recommendations with your home sale
  • Ask if anyone knows any homes available for sale that fit your budget and requirements
  • Network with real estate agents and potential home buyers

 

All of this can be powerful on these online communities because you know you’re speaking directly to your target audience. This is one of the few ways to get your voice heard in your real estate market, and that’s why it’s such a powerful tool.

 

Join an Online Community

You’re ready to join your local online communities and make an impact. No matter if you’re trying to buy or sell a house, these online communities are an untapped resource. Try them for yourself to see how they help you learn about your community, network with the right buyers, and become an active local member.

 

These online communities are free and open to most anyone, so there’s no reason not to join them today. You just need to login and experience them for yourself.

The post How to Productively Take Advantage of Online Communities appeared first on National Cash Offer.



source https://nationalcashoffer.com/how-to-productively-take-advantage-of-online-communities/

How To Use Twitter To Sell Your Home

Have you ever thought about using Twitter to sell your home?

If you haven’t, we recommend you start thinking about it now! Twitter has hundreds of millions of users and is constantly growing, meaning there is a massive market to try and sell your home to.

 

If you’re interested in learning how to manage your Twitter account to help sell your home, check out these five steps:

 

 

1. Find A Twitter-Savvy Real Estate Agent

If you’re looking to use Twitter to sell your home, you’re definitely going to want your real estate agent to be on the same page. Making sure that your real estate agent uses Twitter and knows it well is important. If they’re not familiar with social media, this won’t be helpful. The Twitter algorithm is constantly changing. Real estate agents who spend time selling homes on Twitter have been through those changes and are up-to-date with the new ones. Research your real estate agent and ask them about using Twitter.

 

 

2. Make Your House Visually Appealing

If your home has a visual impact on someone, they’re far more likely to want to buy it or at least check it out. People scroll through their feeds and if they see something interesting, they’ll stop and engage with it. A number of great photos can draw somebody in, get them to stop scrolling, and hopefully get you a sale.

We recommend either hiring a professional photographer to get you some photos or taking some quality photos yourself.

 

 

twitter

 

3. Find The Best Times To Tweet

The best times to tweet are going to depend on a lot of things, including location and demographics. Luckily, when it comes to real estate, there are a few different guidelines that you can follow. The best thing that you can do personally is to check out your own engagement on your profile.

 

 

4. Build a Following To Help Spread The Word

The more and more followers that you have on Twitter, the more and more the word on your home will be spread through re-tweets. To do this, you can begin following relevant businesses or accounts and engage with their content so that hey hopefully engage back. Even if they don’t, it will at least put your profile and content in front of those accounts’ followers.

Think of the demographic that would purchase your home and engage with accounts that that demographic would engage with.

 

 

5. Make Use Of #Hashtags

Hashtags can make a big impact on the possibility of a sale as well. We recommend looking at other popular homelisters on Twitter and seeing what hashtags they are using to sell their homes. Click on those hashtags and get a good idea of how they are being used too so that you can use them in the proper manner. This can help connect users with your home’s listings and garner more traffic.

 

 

Conclusion

Twitter can be confusing for the lot of us that don’t use it every single day, especially when you consider that it’s become second nature to the younger generation. With that said, it doesn’t have to be confusing, and the more you use it, the more and more you’ll be able to connect with real people in your area and attract more leads for your home.

Do you have any tips or tricks on how to sell a home on Twitter? Let us know in the comments!

The post How To Use Twitter To Sell Your Home appeared first on National Cash Offer.



source https://nationalcashoffer.com/how-to-use-twitter-to-sell-your-home/

Can New Carpet In Your Home Help You Sell Your Home?

It’s time to move and you notice your carpets are starting to show just how old they really are. Do you leave this problem for the future homeowner (if you manage to sell) or do you take care of this problem right now? That’s a decision you get to decide but first let’s get you some information that might support you in making that decision. 

 

 

The Price Of Replacing Carpet

Replacing carpets is one of the most suggested household improvements by agents. Now, this cost can vary greatly depending on many factors, house size included. The type of padding underneath your carpet also weighs in. On average you’ll be looking at around $700-$2,500 which is a wide range but it’s to give you an idea of what it could look like if you’ve never replaced carpets before. Why should you spend this money on a home you’ll be leaving shortly?

 

 

Benefits Of New Carpet

The smallest thing can turn potential homebuyers away. If you’re pricing your home high and then have stains on your carpet then homebuyers are going to assume you’re reaching. Depending on the house this can be a cheaper fix in the long run while gaining buyer trust. The carpet speaks the most about how much household work is needed. Some benefits are

 

  • Buyer Appeal
  • Rises perceived value
  • Gives the feeling of being clean
  • Shows buyers you care

 

All of these benefits increases the chances of you selling your home. Even if there was just one benefit it would be worth it but there are at least 4.

 

 

Choosing The Best Carpet

Go as affordable as you can without sacrificing quality. Check with your realtor and see if they have any leads on what contractors use for affordable carpets these days. It’ll probably be a beige color in the end. Regardless a new carpet is a new carpet and people will notice that before anything else.

 

 

Other Options

Maybe your carpets are in great conditions! If that’s the case you probably don’t have any pets or kids. That’s good news however you may notice some minor stains. These may be easily removed through buying some stain remover or if that isn’t working then you might need to call in some professionals. A nice carpet cleaning could be just the trick needed to sway buyers to make the decision to seal the deal.

The post Can New Carpet In Your Home Help You Sell Your Home? appeared first on National Cash Offer.



source https://nationalcashoffer.com/can-new-carpet-in-your-home-help-you-sell-your-home/

How To Determine How Much You Can Afford When Buying A Home 


Buying a home is a major life event.  If you spend too much, you will be on the hook for a sizable investment that has the potential to prove onerous in terms of taxes, monthly mortgage payments, upkeep and so on.  Spend too little and you will live in regret wondering what life would have been like in a nicer home that cost more money.  The key is to take your time, evaluate a number of different options and choose a lovely home you can afford.   

 

 

Focus on Your Debt to Income Ratio

The house you have your eye on should not eat up more than 36 percent of your gross income in terms of cost.  If your monthly mortgage payment exceeds this figure, it is a financial liability that could lead to foreclosure or an early sale.  Ideally, your mortgage will account for about 30 percent or less of your gross monthly pay.  So be don’t jump at the opportunity to take out a lengthy mortgage with a massive monthly payment that takes up a large chunk of your gross income.  Opt for something more reasonable to minimize your financial risk and ultimately sleep better at night.

 

 

Consider the Costs of Home Ownership

Every house requires some form of maintenance, even if the yard work is outsourced to a contractor.  Annual maintenance, repairs, improvements, replacements and so on will cost money.  So don’t assume your financial obligations end with your mortgage.  You will also have to pay for home maintenance and insurance to boot.  Keep these expenses in mind when setting your financial limitations on homes for sale.  Be sure to add some money to your emergency fund when creating your monthly budget.  Such a fund is necessary to cover the expense of unexpected home maintenance problems, natural disasters and other unforeseen yet costly events. 

 

 

Ask for Assistance Through a Pre-qualification

It will help to find out if your current income and debt puts you in a position to qualify for a home mortgage.  The lending institution will evaluate your finances to determine if you qualify for a loan, how much the loan will be for and what sort of interest rate you will have to pay.  Most pre-qualifications account for income and debt yet do not consider your spending habits or goals for personal savings.  Factor in these two variables before making a commitment to a home mortgage. 

 

If you do not qualify for a mortgage, do not give up hope.  Work on repairing your credit score, paying down your debts and increasing your income.  Continue to improve your credit and you will eventually qualify for a home mortgage, albeit with less than spectacular terms.  If your credit score is holding you back from the mortgage you desire, review your credit report for errs and do your best to save up a sizable down payment to reduce your risk from the perspective of the lending institution.

 

 

Plan for the Worst and Hope for the Best

If you are offered a home mortgage loan, do not immediately accept it.  Consider how many payments you could make if you lost your job.  Consider the ongoing costs of home ownership.  If the cost of the mortgage is about one-third or less of your gross monthly income and if you are capable of covering the monthly mortgage payment for at least six months in the event that you are unemployed or sick, you can likely afford the home.  Otherwise, think long and hard before making a financial commitment to a home that has the potential to become  your financial ruin.

The post How To Determine How Much You Can Afford When Buying A Home 
 appeared first on National Cash Offer.



source https://nationalcashoffer.com/how-to-determine-how-much-you-can-afford-when-buying-a-home-%e2%80%a8/

Monday 29 April 2019

The Most Affordable Neighborhoods To Live In Texas

For most people, affordability is the key factor when deciding where to live.

For those moving to Texas, cities like Austin, Houston, and Dallas are often the first choice. While these cities are fairly affordable compared to other major cities around the country, there are much more affordable areas in Texas to choose from without sacrificing your quality of life.

From Galveston to El Paso, there are countless affordable places to live within Texas’ vast landscape.

If you’re considering moving to Texas, here a few of the most affordable places to live.

Odessa, TX

Odessa has a lot of the qualities that come to mind when you think of Texas. Most notably, Odessa is home to a strong cowboy and football culture.

In addition to this, Odessa also has a number of notable attractions for an area that most wouldn’t consider a major city. Perhaps one of the most interesting is the nearly life-size replica of Stonehenge.

According to Livability, Odessa has a median home price of just over $100,000. This, in addition to a diverse economy and attractive housing market, makes Odessa a great choice for those looking for affordable places in Texas.

Galveston, TX

People who are used to living on the coast might be interested in moving to Galveston, TX — a popular vacation destination located along the Gulf of Mexico.

Located just outside of Houston, you’ll only be about an hour away from Houston attractions, like NASA, the Houston Zoo, the Houston Museum of Natural Science, and more.

Galveston itself has a number of attractions. Besides always being near the beach, you can enjoy the popular Pleasure Pier or shop at The Strand.

ExtraSpace lists the median home price in Galveston at just over $150,000. You’d have a tough time finding a beachfront home at a better price in any other city.

El Paso, TX

El Paso is a west Texas city located along the Texas, Mexico, and New Mexico borders. With a vibrant arts scene, plenty of nightlife, and access to a variety of outdoor activities, El Paso is easily one of the most desirable areas to live in Texas for those with affordability in mind.

El Paso is also home to the University of Texas at El Paso and is a major manufacturing center in Texas, so opportunities for jobs and education are plentiful.

The median home price in El Paso is around $120,000 — making it one of the more affordable major Texas cities.

Pearland, TX

Pearland is a rapidly growing suburb located just outside of Houston.

As it is a suburb, Pearland isn’t packed with many of the amenities located in a larger city. But, thanks to its close proximity to Houston, it only takes a short drive to get to major attractions, nightlife, and great restaurants.

Pearland offers plenty of job opportunities and has a median household income of over $90,000.

Frisco, TX

Last on the list is Frisco, TX — a suburb located just under 20 miles from Dallas.

In addition to its easy access to Dallas, Frisco boasts a strong sports culture, offers plenty of retail locations, and has a very low unemployment rate.

With a median household income of about $108,000, according to Livability, you should find it much easier to find a good job in Frisco than in many other cities.

Affordability is the key factor for many when deciding where to move. These cities make living in Texas extremely affordable while offering a high quality of life.

The post The Most Affordable Neighborhoods To Live In Texas appeared first on National Cash Offer.



source https://nationalcashoffer.com/the-most-affordable-neighborhoods-to-live-in-texas/

How to Sell Your Home on eBay

There are a lot of online listing platforms on the web to list your home for sale, but is eBay one of them? eBay is known for quirky, unique finds, but is it also a legitimate place to list your home for sale? While it might sound a bit crazy, there’s a surprising amount of real estate available for sale on eBay at any given time, proving this is a popular method of buying and selling property.

 

While it might be complicated and a bit legally complex, it’s possible to sell your home on eBay. According to eBay’s Real Estate Policy, real estate listings on the platform are not legally binding offers to sell the property. Because local laws govern how the sales of real estate work, it’s impossible for eBay to actually be a selling platform for the full transaction of a home sale.

 

However, eBay can be sued as a form of advertising when it comes to selling your home. In fact, eBays unique listing features might even make it one of the most functional ways to approach selling your home. In this guide, we’ll explain how to sell your home on eBay.

 

How to sell your home on eBay

 

Benefits of Selling on eBay

First, let’s address why you might choose to sell on eBay in the first place. With so many other listing services, why go with one that’s clearly not designed for real estate? In short, the more the marrier. Listing your home for sale on multiple listing services is a great way to increase your exposure.

 

In addition, eBay reaches a different audience of home buyers. While you aren’t likely to find local families shopping for a forever home on eBay, it is ripe with real estate investors. That means if you have a home that’s prime for flipping, this is one of the best places to list it.

 

eBay’s unique features include unique ad formats. You can choose the Classified Ad format or an auction format. If you use a Classified Ad format, there won’t be any bidding. This means interested buyers will fill out a contact form so you’re able to contact them on your own. If you use the auction feature, you’ll need to remember that no home transactions can actually take place through eBay. You’ll need to organize the actual sale outside of the platform.

 

Listing Your Home on eBay

Now that you know why eBay is a legitimate option, let’s discuss how to actually get started. First, realize that when you list on eBay, you’re selling your home “for sale by owner.” This means you won’t have a real estate agent, and you’ll be responsible for marketing your home by yourself. While you might save in real estate fees, you’ll also need to remember that eBay charges their own fees and marketing can be a complicated process, especially if you’re new to real estate.

 

Though it might sound strange, you list your home on eBay just as you would any other item on eBay. To start, you’ll need to create an eBay account. From there, follow these steps:

 

  1. Log in to your eBay account or create a new account.
  2. Click “Sell.”
  3. Type keywords related to your “product,” in this case your home.
  4. Because it’s hard to find similar “products” for a home, click “Create a new listing” rather than finding a similar item through eBay’s search platform.
  5. Add as much information to your listing as possible. Include the location, photos, and choose your listing type.
  6. Click publish to make your listing live.
  7. Update your listing as needed, and respond to prospective buyers.

 

That’s all there is to it. Make sure you educate yourself about local real estate laws before you sell your home on eBay. There’s a lot to know about local regulations and requirements if you want to avoid a legal situation.

 

Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide if selling on eBay is a smart real estate choice. Depending on your market and your goals, eBay can be a surprisingly powerful tool. Now that you know how to sell your home on eBay, there’s nothing getting in your way of finding the homebuyer you’ve been waiting for.

The post How to Sell Your Home on eBay appeared first on National Cash Offer.



source https://nationalcashoffer.com/how-to-sell-your-home-on-ebay/

Reasons to Inspect an Attic Before You Buy a Home

One of the most important things to do when you accept the offer for your dream house is to inspect it. Hiring a home inspector before placing a down payment will save you from unnecessary litigation, regret, and repair. It is typical of a realtor to deliberately hide some issues with the house or possibly have limited knowledge of the building. 

 

Research shows that over 20% of the real estate transactions failed because the inspector found one or two problems about the building in question. While inspecting the house, inform your inspector to check the attic carefully to determine its condition. This is because the Attic has an essential and direct role to play in the comfort of any building.

Here are the top six reasons why you need to inspect the attic before making any payment.

 

 

Previous Fire Damage

One of the few things that realtors try to hide about an old house is previous fire damage. Most of the time, they refurbish and paint the attic to conceal the signs of fire like scorched or sooty wood. It then becomes hard for an ordinary except a professional inspector to discover the signs. In addition to this, the house might have suffered fire damage if the rafter does not have the color of natural wood.

 

 

Poor Ventilation

Proper air flow through the attic is essential for the comfort and wellbeing of the occupants in a house. As a result of this, it is crucial for the attic space to aid airflow and give moisture room to escape. Apart from this, poor ventilation can damage the roof cover during the hot season. Mold and other attic issues will also be prevalent.

 

 

Animal Infestation

If you are buying an unoccupied house, the first thing to do is to check for animal infestation. Most of the time, bats, cockroaches, rodents and raccoons occupied the attics of such building. As a result, they destroy the wood slats of the building with their teeth, feces, and urine.  The fact that the animals are capable of destroying the wood slats does not make them harmful to humans. However, it is not ideal to live with them.

 

 

inspecting attic

 

Signs of Mold and Moisture

Without the help of an inspector, you might discover the signs of leaks and moisture in the attic. This is why you need to hire a professional inspector who will use special tools to identify mold, leaks, and humidity in the attic. The essence of checking for decay is to be sure that the excess moisture has not destroyed the wall and foundation of the building.

 

 

Poor Insulation

If you are buying a house that is built in the 90’s or years earlier, it is vital to consider the insulation of the house. House built during this period do not meet the modern standard of insulation as most jurisdiction requires over a foot of insulation. However, it is reasonable to see about three inches R-value or no R-value in a 90’s building. For your comfort, it is advisable to work on the attic in case it is a 90s house. You can also ask your home inspector to check if the batt of the house is facing the right direction.

 

 

Chimney Access

An ordinary person cannot inspect the interior part of the Chimney from the attic. However, an expert will be able to determine the size and structure of the chimney to be sure of its reliability. Apart from this, the inspectors will check for cracks and any damage around the fireplace.  Its height and location also have many things to do with the air flow of the house.

 

Buying a house is expensive. It would, however, not be cool if you buy a home that is faulty because you could not do the necessary inspection. It is advisable to check the building for problems before making any form of payment to the seller or realtor.

The post Reasons to Inspect an Attic Before You Buy a Home appeared first on National Cash Offer.



source https://nationalcashoffer.com/reasons-to-inspect-an-attic-before-you-buy-a-home/

Do Open Houses Really Help Sell Your Home?

The simple truth is that an open house isn’t going to reduce the chance of you selling your home. Is the outcome worth the time and energy setting one up? That’s disputable.

According to the National Association of Realtors, only 3% of open house guests end up becoming buyers, Let’s take a look at the people involved with an open house, who benefits the most and who takes the hit.

 

 

The Looky-Loo

Prospective homebuyers that are serious are typically paired up with a real estate agent when they’re looking for their home. This is because agents are able to help with a number of things, including providing listings and setting up tours of the homes in question. For the most part, you end up dealing with people such as neighborhood locals, people who are driving by, and those who just enjoy going to open houses for the free snacks and chance to peek inside a nice home.

 

 

Real Estate Agents

If you interviewed multiple agents before listing the home and those agents did not get it, they’ll likely drop by. It’s no surprise that agents love to visit open houses. This is where they get a chance to see different set ups and sale preparations. Unfortunately, you already have an agent that you like, so them being there is not helpful in the slightest.

 

 

open houses

 

Criminals

Opening your door to the public is a pretty big risk. There is typically no screening process, meaning anyone can come inside and check out the rooms. It’s not uncommon for these open houses to have tons of guests, meaning the second the real estate agent is busy with someone else, the unsuspected thief can start going from room to room seeing if there is anything good.

 

Even if they don’t decide to steal something that day, they now essentially have a blueprint of your home if they decide to come back later.

 

 

Who Benefits From an Open House?

Unless you have tons of foot traffic in your area, you typically won’t benefit from an open houses. The one who will benefit the most is your real estate agent, as they can use your open house as a way to increase business, as well as make you, the seller, content.

 

For an agent, they hope to meet tons of future homebuyers who will possibly contact them in the future when they’re ready to buy a home. They also have a chance to stick their face on a large poster board in your front yard, essentially creating free advertising.

 

 

Is It Worth It?

Not really. You’re better off getting some professional photos, having your paperwork in order, and listing your home with a proper real estate agent. You will have to hope for some bites in the same way as you would with an open house, just without the risks and extra work.

 

Have you ever had an open house or hosted an open house for a potential seller? How did it pan out? Let us know your experience in the comments!

The post Do Open Houses Really Help Sell Your Home? appeared first on National Cash Offer.



source https://nationalcashoffer.com/do-open-houses-really-help-sell-your-home/

The Most Affordable Neighborhoods to Live in California

With beautiful beaches, a lucrative tech boom and year-round pleasant weather,  California has a reputation as one of the most expensive states to live in the U.S. You may be surprised to hear that there are still some affordable places to set up home – you just have to know the right place to look!

 

Here are some of the most affordable places to live in California, based on the average home price and the median family income.

 

 

Ventura

Ventura is a California coastal town which frequently tops lists as one of America’s most desirable places to live.  It’s perfect climate, and gorgeous coastline are just a couple of the reasons why people love to call Ventura home. With an average median income of $82,857 and a median property price of $592,500, it’s a fairly affordable place to live for most two-income families.

 

 

Vacaville

Vacaville is a city located in Northern California. Approximately 35 miles from Sacramento and an hour from San Francisco, Vacaville is perfect for families looking for a peaceful community in which to raise a family. With a median home value of $275,100, Vacaville really is one of the most affordable places to live in California. If you’re the outdoorsy type who loves to hike, you definitely want to take a trip up to the hills in Lagoon Valley and soak in the views.

 

 

Taft

Known for its oil and natural gas industry, and named after president William H. Taft, the city of Taft is located in the foothills of Kern County. Due to its desert climate, Taft experiences long, hot, dry summers, and short, cooler winters. With a median income of $52,000, Taft is one of the most affordable cities to live in California in terms of home price to income ratio.

 

 

Ridgecrest

With a median home value of  $169,500, Ridgecrest could be the perfect location to live an affordable life in California. Situated between the Cosos on the north, the Argus Range on the east, the Sierra Nevada on the west, and the El Paso Mountains on the south, Ridgecrest was once predominantly a farming community. Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake is the biggest employer in the city, employing around 8,000 people. If you don’t mind the windy climate and long, hot days, Ridgecrest may be the place for you!

 

 

Holtville

Known as the ‘Carrot Capital of the World(!)’ Holtville is located on the US/Mexico border. With a strong agricultural industry and a pleasantly sunny climate, it’s not hard to see why this small town is one of the most affordable places to live in California. A median home price of only $150,000, and an average household income of approximately $43,000, Holtville is extremely easy going on most peoples bank balance.

 

Whether you want to live a quiet life in a small community, or long to be in the bustling metropolitan area of a major city, there is a dream home for you in California, you just have to find it!

The post The Most Affordable Neighborhoods to Live in California appeared first on National Cash Offer.



source https://nationalcashoffer.com/the-most-affordable-neighborhoods-to-live-in-california/

Sunday 28 April 2019

What Do I Do After I List My Home?

Selling a house doesn’t have to be stressful. In fact, thanks to the rise of the internet, selling your home has gotten a whole lot easier. However, just because it’s easier doesn’t mean it will be all smooth sailing. The average home sale takes around 68 days, and that means you might have a lot of waiting to do.

 

Luckily, you don’t have to sit idly by waiting for your home to sell. If you’re asking what do I do after I list my home, you have a lot of options. You need to prepare your home for sale, make it appealing to buyers, find the right agent, and respond to your marketplace. Let’s break down the individual steps.

 

Find an Agent

If you don’t already have a real estate agent, now’s the time to get one. While you can add your home to services like Zillow and Realtor without an agent, you’ll still want to have some help promoting your property. Agents bring a lot of skills and resources to the table. They’re connected to interested buyers, they have greater access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), and they know how to prepare a home to sell quickly.

 

Before you know it, a for-sale sign will appear in your yard and you’ll have a lockbox to give your agent access to the home when you’re not home. This can seem offputting, but it’s key to have your home easily accessible if your agent finds interested buyers. No matter your market, you need your home to be prepared to impress.

 

What do I do after listing my home for sale? Cleaning

 

Declutter Your Space

While you might have already tuned up your home in preparation for listing, it’s time to start deep cleaning and really decluttering your space. Your house now needs to be “show ready” at all times. This doesn’t mean you can’t keep living in your home, but you need to be aware of its presentability whenever you leave.

 

Things to do include sweeping the counters, vacuuming, and breaking down clutter. If you simply have too much stuff, it might make sense to pack some of it up and store it in a storage unit or a relatives home for the time being. While this might seem like a chore, it will make the moving process much simpler.

 

Remove Any Distractions

While you might love your things in your home, they can be a turn-off to potential buyers. Your buyers don’t want to walk in to see your family portraits and your kid’s paintings on the walls. These are lovely things, but they give off the feeling that your home is claimed already.

 

You want to depersonalize yourself by removing any distractions. Then, the buyer can actually see themselves in the property. Remove things like photos, bold artwork, and any unusual furniture. Your home should become something like a blank canvas.

 

Prepare for Home Traffic

It can be weird to have strangers in your home, but you should prepare for the most traffic and attention between 2 – 3 weeks after listing your home. This is when it’s likely to have caught the attention of the most buyers.

 

Your agent will likely host an open house within the first few weeks of listing your home. Your house will need to be ready for showing by this point, and the event will be hosted for both brokers and the general public. Always try to steer clear of your open house and let your agent take care of things.

 

While many sellers think open houses are when people buy homes, only 7% of buyers purchase a home they saw in an open house. However, they’re still a great way to generate awareness, especially amongst other agents.

 

Consider Your Strategy

It’s normal for the excitement around your home to die down after a few weeks. Yet, this dies down in traffic without any real interest can be disappointing and frustrating. If you hit the 60-day mark and you haven’t seen any real momentum, it’s time to talk to your agent.

 

It might be time to try a new promotion method. Your agent might use social media promotion, host another open house, or try another method to gain neighborhood attention. If you’re in a challenging market, don’t fret too much. Things change fast in the real estate world. Small differences sometimes make a huge impact.

 

Final Thoughts

Are you ready to sell your house? If you’ve been asking what do I do after I list my home, these are the next steps you need to take. The main takeaway is to keep your home looking its best and to stay positive.

 

You need to trust your agent to know that they’re doing the right thing for your property. From there, it’s often just a waiting game to find the right buyer.

The post What Do I Do After I List My Home? appeared first on National Cash Offer.



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Friday 26 April 2019

Benefits Of Buying Instead of Renting

After the mortgage crisis of the late 2000s, owning a home started to have a bad reputation. This was because many people were unable to afford their mortgages during this time, ending up underwater or in foreclosure.

 

Owning a home is supposed to be the American Dream though right?

 

Absolutely! Those times are finally turning around. Rent is on the rise and home prices are dropping thanks to the ebb and flow of the economy. Here are some of the top reasons to buy instead of rent in this day and age.

 

 

1. You Don’t Have To Deal With a Landlord

Why is is that you only seem to interact with your landlord when something negative is on the rise? Luckily, when you own a property, you don’t have to deal with surprise eviction notices or months-on-end waiting periods for them to come and fix that broken disposal in the kitchen. You’re the leader of your own home and you answer to no one else. That slice of freedom is the true American Dream.

 

 

2. You Can Upgrade Your Own Space

Most landlords will allow you to live on your property as long as you abide by their codes. Some of those mean that you can’t upgrade or customize your living space. When you own a home, you can improve it in a number of ways, from installing energy-efficient upgrades such as solar or spa-style showers, or knocking down that impractical wall between the kitchen and the living room. Your home is at your disposal and you have no security deposit to worry about losing in the process!

 

 

benefits of buying instead of renting

 

 

3. You Can Monetize Your Home

Who says that you have for the long run to sell your property and make money off of it? Thanks to the Internet, homeowners are beginning to discover more and more ways to monetize their homes such as renting out spare bedrooms and storage spaces, starting home businesses, or hosting events. If you want to go the standard route, we highly recommend signing your home up for a hosting site like AirBnb.

 

 

4. Take Your Tax Deductions

One of the most prominent benefits of owning a home is that you can deduct mortgage interest payments come tax season. If you really dig beneath the surface though, there are quite a few benefits to doing your taxes as a homeowner. Let’s say you get those energy upgrades that we were talking about earlier. That’s tax-deductible! If you have a home office, you can also deduct that space. We recommend taking a look at the long list of homeowner tax benefits here.

 

 

5. A Fixed Mortgage Won’t Increase

We’ve all heard the horror stories or major rent increase forcing tenants out. It’s one of the major downsides of gentrification. Luckily, homeowners don’t have to worry about fixed mortgage rates rising. If you lock yourself into a 30-year fixed mortgage at an incredibly low rate, you are essentially protecting yourself from inflation as you and your family grow and other costs rise around you.

 

 

Conclusion

Obviously buying a home isn’t in the cards for everyone, though don’t think of it as some negative or unattainable goal, especially if you’re young now. If you do have a steady job and are ready to make that next big step in your life, buying a home can be more than ideal.

 

We hope that our buying benefit guide has inspired you to begin your own home-buying journey. Do you own or have you ever owned a home before? Let us know your experience in the comments!

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source https://nationalcashoffer.com/benefits-of-buying-instead-of-renting/

Does Adding A Garage To Your Home Add Value?

When making improvements to your home, it is always a good idea to consider not only how those changes will make your life easier, but also how they will affect the value of your property. Even if you are not planning on moving and selling your house anytime soon, you may need to refinance and building equity on your home should stay on top of your mind. Adding a garage is one of these improvements that are on the pricier side (usually around $20,000, depending on where you are located) and may cause pose to homeowners considering it.

 

Although you can never recoup 100% of the cost of an improvement, a garage can make your life extremely convenient. But does it add to your home value?

 

The short answer is yes. Garage additions have a cost to value return flirting around 65% depending on the years. If you are planning to put your property on the market shortly, you may want to think twice. However, if you are planning on living in your house for several years, you will be able to benefit from the added square footage, the possibility to store excess possession, and, of course, park your vehicle(s) indoor to help reduce wear and tear.

 

 

 

 

Although adding a garage may not bump up the value of your property to the same amount, there is another thing to consider: not having a garage when most of the comparable properties have one may decrease the value of your home by more than it would cost to add one. When appraisers determine the value of the house, they use similar dwellings in the same neighborhood that sold recently and add or decrease a particular amount depending on the features of each comparable. If you live in an area where most houses have a garage, and it is considered a very desirable feature, potential buyers may be reluctant to purchase it and end up leaning towards a different property.

 

Besides, if you live in a region where the climate can be harsh, or where having a car is necessary like a suburb or a rural area, potential buyers may not consider your home entirely. It is also true if your house has a garage, but the feature might be too small compared to others. Older homes for example often have garages that are too small to store an average sized modern vehicle, because they are too short, or the opening door might be too low. If other properties in the area you live in have two or three-car garages, but your property only has room for one, you may want to consider upgrading to a larger one.

 

A good rule of thumb when deciding on whether or not investing in any improvement for your property is to keep in mind which homes a potential buyer would look at. Consider what would their priorities be: for example, putting marble countertops in a house located in a lower-end neighborhood would not add value, no matter how much the homeowners paid for it. On the other hand, if comparable homes have a garage but yours does not, adding one would be an excellent investment.

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How To Save on Air Conditioning In The Home

As the summer months come into full swing and the mercury rises, the heat can be unbearable. Don’t let yourself get caught out with a huge electricity bill come autumn.  You can take proactive measures to keep your cooling bill reasonable, so you don’t get any nasty surprises. Whether you live on the southeast coast of Florida, or the midwest,  take a look at our tips to ensure you won’t get a nasty energy bill surprises.

 

 

Run Your AC Efficiently.

If you can manage by putting your AC up a couple of degrees, it is worth doing it. Using a programmable thermostat to increase the temperature when you’re out of town, can also decrease your summer cooling bill significantly. Even, small adjustments such as setting your AC’s thermostat to 78ºF instead of 72ºF could reduce your energy bill by as much as 18%!

 

 

Maintain Your HVAC

If you don’t change the oil in your car, it doesn’t run as efficiently as it should. If you never have your vehicle serviced, it’s likely to break down and stop working altogether. An air conditioning unit is no different. If you don’t correctly care for it, with regular services and cleaning, not only will it become inefficient, it could also stop working. Even something as small as not changing your dirty AC filters can block airflow and make units work harder. Replacing your filters once per month can lower your AC units energy consumption by up to 15%!

 

 

 

 

Keep Outside Doors Closed

This seems like it’s obvious, but a lot of people still do this and wonder why their electricity bill is so high. If you have windows and doors open while you’re running the AC, you are hindering your AC units ability to cool your home. By allowing warm air from outside to come inside, your HVAC unit has to work much harder to keep your home cool. This can lead to the premature breakdown of your system.

 

 

Close Your Blinds

Keeping your curtains drawn can save significant money on utility bills in summer. The heat from the sun can warm up a home very quickly. By adopting the use of curtains and drapes that block sunlight from entering your home, you can reduce heat gain by as much as 45%. Using light-colored treatments also help to deflect the sun’s rays. There are also blinds which are reflective and help to conserve energy by blocking the sun’s rays from entering the window.

 

 

Use A Fan

Utilizing a couple of free-standing fans to help your air conditioning unit along can be a frugal way to save on your electricity bills. By using them to circulate the cold air more efficiently, you can allow your AC unit a break. And because fans use less energy than an air conditioning unit, they are a cheap way of ensuring even if the weather hots up, you don’t have to.

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Is an Attic Remodel Worth the Investment?

When the subject of remodeling is raised, most people think of their kitchen or bathroom.  Though uncommon, it is possible to remodel a home’s attic and obtain a sizable return on investment.  Your attic is a cost-efficient space for remodeling as the base structure of the floor and roof are already in place.  Remodel your attic and you will have extra space for a new family member, a tenant, storage or anything else you desire.  Furthermore, remodeling your attic increases the value of the home.  The question is whether remodeling your attic is worth the trouble in terms of money as well as time and annoyance.

 

 

An Affordable Means of Adding Space

Most homeowners who remodel their attic find it is worth the investment.  Even if the home is not put up for sale in the ensuing years, remodeling the attic provides more usable space without adding to the property.  This means your property taxes will stay the same unless you rent the attic to a tenant.  There is no need for a tax assessment as the remodel simply makes better use of your current space. 

 

 

Attic Remodeling by the Numbers: Is This Investment Really Worth It?

The National Association of Realtors’ Remodeling Impact Report states the country’s median attic bedroom remodeling project runs $75,000.  The same report states homeowners who make the investment in an attic bedroom remodel ultimately receive 53 percent of the investment back when selling the home.  However, the true value of the attic remodeling project cannot be quantified in its percentage of the home’s selling price.  Homeowners considering an attic remodel should consider the value they will receive from enjoying this newly-beautified space.  If you rent out the remodeled attic to a tenant, you will make a pretty penny that likely makes up for the 47 percent loss on investment when selling your home at some point down the line.

 

 

Important Considerations Beyond Money When Considering an Attic Remodel

If you are still on the fence as to whether it makes sense to remodel your attic, consider important factors beyond price.  Even if you receive all of the money you invest in your attic remodel, you might have to pay for ongoing maintenance, repairs and so on.  You might even run into a building code conflict when planning your attic remodel.  In some cases, a dormer must be added to comply with ceiling codes. 

 

If the rafters cannot support plumbing, lighting, electrical and drywall, it will not comply with joist codes.  Egress codes mandate there are at least two exits, usually a door and a window.  In other words, there might be some latent costs to the attic remodel you should consider when attempting to calculate the total cost.

 

 

To Remodel or not Remodel, That is the Question

In the end, your decision to remodel your home’s attic will hinge on your unique budget, the timetable for living at the property and the intended use of the newly-remodeled space.  The majority of those who remodel their attic are more than pleased with the result.  This is your chance to convert an attic used for storage or nothing at all into a bedroom, home office, playroom, studio or entertainment space.  Make the most of this opportunity and you will obtain that much more value out of your home in terms of enjoyment as well as a higher selling price.

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Should I Paint My Bathroom To Help Me Sell My Home?

It’s no secret that making minor and major renovation before putting your home on the market can help you sell it faster and for more money.

But what renovations are worth it?

From repairing your roof to painting the exterior of your home, there are a number of worthwhile renovations that can boost your home’s value.

One area of your home that you may be unsure of is your bathroom. Will repainting or making renovations to such a small area of your home make much of a difference? Let’s look at whether or not painting your bathroom before selling your home is worth the trouble.

Why Bother with Renovations?

For some people, renovations may not be worth it. If your main concern is to sell your home as quickly as possible, renovations aren’t practical.

However, if you have the luxury of time, renovations are a great way to maximize your return. This is particularly important if your mortgage isn’t paid off. There are a variety of home improvements you can make which will add significant value to your home and outweigh your costs.

If you’re looking to maximize the value of your home before a sale, home improvements are a must.

Should You Paint Your Bathroom?

Whether or not you should paint your bathroom depends on a few factors.

If your bathroom is in bad shape, repainting is a great idea. If the paint is worn, faded, and peeling, it may give off the impression that you haven’t taken care of your home. Additionally, bold colors like bright yellows and greens aren’t for everyone. When buyers your home, they want to be able to see themselves living in it. That can be difficult if the colors inside your home aren’t appealing.

However, the color alone may not have a big impact on the value of your home — at least not as big as other factors. Zillow reported that bathrooms painted in shades like tan and beige only sold for about $280 more than other houses, on average. Bathrooms painted in less appealing colors, like dark-brown, sold for about $470 less, on average. When you’re talking about selling a home worth over $100,000, these changes aren’t very significant.

The color of your bathroom may not significantly affect your home’s value, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth it to repaint. While you may only be able to increase your sale price by a few hundred dollars, afresh coat of paint can do a lot to attract potential buyers. It gives the impression that you care for your home and have made an effort to make improvements before selling. This can build buyer confidence and help them trust that their new home will be in good condition.

The bottom line is that painting your bathroom may not be worth it if your only concern is adding monetary value, but if you have the time and money to do it, it can add a little bit of value and make your home appealing to more house hunters.

Other Renovations to Consider

Beyond painting your bathroom, there are several renovations you can consider making to add value to your home, including:

These changes, among others, can be a great way to quickly and cost-effectively add value to your home before putting it on the market.

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Thursday 25 April 2019

Benefits of Using a Rent-to-Own Agreement to Sell Your Home

While we usually think about rent-to-own agreements as something that only benefits aspiring home buyers, the same is true for landlords or those trying to sell their homes. Because housing costs are on the rise in many parts of the United States, renting-to-own is becoming a more common option to achieve the dream of buying a home. It’s also an effective way for the landlord or owner to transition their property out of their control.

 

In this article, we’ll discuss how a rent-to-own or lease-to-own agreement works, as well as why it benefits landlords and property owners who want to sell their home. Sellers who are struggling to move their home off the market quickly might be interested in this option.

 

Rent to Own Agreement | Money and Wooden House

 

What is Rent-to-Own?

The name itself is pretty self-explanatory. When you rent-to-own your property,  you lease out your home to a tenant for a certain period of time with an option to buy. In most cases, the renter will pay an additional fee called the “option fee” which can be between 2-7% of the purchase price. This fee is to have the option to buy the home in the future.

 

Often, a portion of the rent paid throughout the lease term is applied to the purchase price. For instance, if the tenant pays $1,500 a month for rent within a 3 year period, that’s $54,000 total over the course of those 3 years. If 25% of that rent is credited towards the purchase, that will result in $13,500 to put towards the purchase price.

 

As you can imagine, this makes it home ownership much more attainable to those who might not have been able to afford a large downpayment to begin with. Now, let’s discuss how this rent-to-own agreement benefits sellers.

 

Benefit 1. Higher Sales Price

First, because you’ll likely charge an “option fee” on top of the rent, as well as keep a percentage of the rent, this is a great way to increase the sales price. While you might not be able to pocket that money as quickly if you’re willing to wait you can land a higher sales price even in a soft market. Because the financing terms are much more flexible than a regular rental contract, you can often get a higher rent payment as well.

 

Benefit 2. Minimum Risk

There’s also little to no risk when choosing a rent-to-own agreement to sell your home. Because you can accept a non-refundable deposit if the buyer decides not to purchase the property, you don’t come out empty handed if everything goes south.

 

Benefit 3. Quality Tenants

We’ve all heard about the horrors of nightmare tenants who leave your home in disrepair. This isn’t likely to be the case with most rent-to-own agreements. Most renters don’t intend to stay in the home long-term, so they have very little motivation to take great care of the property.

 

With rent-to-own tenants, they’re hoping to purchase this property someday. It’s this vested interest that usually leads to better maintenance. In many agreements, the tenant is even responsible for repairs.

 

Benefit 4. Larger Target Market

Because you’re targeting both buyers and renters, you have a larger group of people to market your home to. You also don’t need to use a real estate agent if you’re already comfortable handling the rental process on your own. This means you have a greater potential to sell your home in the long-term.

 

Benefit 5. Less Stressful

Finally, this is simply a less stressful process. You don’t have to rush through a home sale, and you can pocket a lot more money along the way. Knowing you’re taking full advantage of the value of your home is a big relief, and you can move your property faster even in a slow market.

 

Should You Use a Rent-to-Own Agreement to Sell Your Home?

While it might not be right if you plan to sell your home quickly, using a rent-to-own agreement to sell your home can be a smart idea. You’ll likely gain more money on your investment, you’ll have time to transition into your new property if you currently live in your home, and you don’t have to worry about the wrong tenants in your property.

 

However, if you do choose this route to sell your home, make sure you take the proper measures to protect yourself and your property. You’ll want to negotiate all of the terms of the lease and the future purchase in your agreement so you have all of your bases covered. Beyond that, it’s just a matter of waiting until your home is ready to sell to your new tenants.

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How To Remodel Your Dining Room

When it comes to remodeling, dining rooms are often neglected.  Though you might not spend an abundance of time in your dining room, the look and feel of this space matters a great deal.  If you are planning on selling your home in the next couple of years or sooner, remodeling your dining room could make the difference between an offer that meets or exceeds your asking price and one well below expectations.  Here’s how to remodel your dining room.

 

 

Start by Planning the Remodel

Do not dive headfirst into a dining room remodel.  Take some time to plan the remodel.  Pick up some books and home decorating magazines with examples of successful dining room remodels.  The images shown in these materials will give you the inspiration necessary to remodel your home’s dining room in a truly artful manner.

 

 

Remodeling the Dining Room’s Walls and Floors

A comprehensive dining room remodel addresses the walls and floors before anything else.  Add new color and possibly some texture to make the upper and lower-most portions of the room feel new.  Re-painting the dining room walls, ceiling and floors is a cheap way to liven up this space or at least change its aesthetic to something that feels fresh.  If you would like your dining room to feel more intimate, paint it a dark color. 

 

Homeowners who would like their dining room to segue directly into their living room will have to tear down a wall to create an open concept dining room.  Be sure to lean on a qualified remodeling expert for this project to ensure the wall is not load-bearing and there are not electrical wires or plumbing lines in the way.  Consider adding hardwood flooring to make your dinning room feel and look that much more refined.  The addition of narrow floor planks with a glossy finish will make the room feel modern.  If cost is your primary concern, add wall-to-wall carpeting and move on to the windows and lighting.

 

 

 

Windows

If your dining room has one or several single-pane windows, replace them with energy-efficient windows.  Though double and triple-pane windows are available for optimal insulation, they are comparably expensive.  Above all, your windows should add an element of style or at least provide an expansive viewing space to take in the natural beauty around your home.  Consider the addition of wooden blinds or other blinds that give you the ability to alter the amount of light let into the room.  Add drapes for layering, update the room’s lights and your dining room will have  a completely different feel.

 

 

Furniture

Remodeling a dining room requires the addition of new furniture.  Consider your unique lifestyle, dining room space and intended room functionality when selecting dining room furniture.  Aside from the dining room table and chairs, you should also consider the addition of a bookshelf, storage cabinets, window seats and other fixtures.  Do not move forward with specific furniture or a room arrangement until the room is planned out on paper or screen with a detailed sketch/graphic rendition.  Aim for a furniture arrangement that maximizes the room’s aesthetic appeal as well as your family’s unique needs.  Once everything is planned out on paper, it is time to start working on the actual dining room remodel.

 

 

Give Your Dining Room That Extra Special Something

Your dining room remodeling project will feel that much more complete after decorative accents are added.  The addition of something as subtle as woven baskets, pillows, candlesticks, pottery or flowers can liven up this space that much more.  Add a few decorations to your dining room to top off its new look and you will find everyone in the house gravitates to this newly-beautified space.

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source https://nationalcashoffer.com/how-to-remodel-your-dining-room/

Reasons Why A Contract Can Fall Apart

Are you thinking of buying or selling your home and you have agreed to the terms of the contract? If yes, it is essential for you to understand that an agreement to the terms in a real estate contract does not guarantee that you will be the one to buy the property. Research shows that over 3.9% of the real estate transactions failed in 2016. Sales fail because of several reasons which include the financial history of the buyer, home inspection, and market conditions among others. We would discuss some of the reasons why contracts fall apart here.

 

 

Inspection Problems 

Potential buyers are usually meticulous with the property they seek to buy. As a result, they carry out different forms of inspections and verifications to be sure that the building is a good buy. However, these inspections are one of the reasons why real estate contract falls out.

 

It is a norm for a seller to conceal some things about the building. Some sellers might probably do not know because they didn’t consider a home inspection before listing the building.  Most of the time, buyers discover these defects and rescind the contract if no agreement is made as to its rectification.

 

 

Financial Issues

The current economic situation has drastically reduced the number of successful real estate contract. Many people now rely on mortgage loans to own a house. Unfortunately, not everyone could apply successfully for a mortgage due to the 2008 house crisis. Thus, it is crucial to keep in mind that a buyer is not guaranteed to receive a loan until the banks approve the mortgage. Apart from this, a slight change in the debt or income level of the mortgagee can prevent the approval of their loan. So, without the consent of the mortgagor to the loan, the real estate contract will crash as the buyer will have no means of financing it.

 

 

 

 

Competency of the Real Estate Agent

Parties to a real estate contract often make the mistake of hiring an incompetent real estate agent who will not only delay the transaction but brings the sale to its knee. The real estate often frustrates the deal through their poor communication, negotiation skills, and customer service. Some of these real estate agents might be lucky to establish a contract for you, but they usually fail to fulfill some of the requirements for the closing of the deal. The result of this is often a failed contract.

 

 

Other Factors

Many buyers often want to sell their buildings before buying a new one. As a result, they delay the execution of the requirement of the contract pending the time they sell their home. Most of the time, they find it hard to sell their home, and without the sales, they cannot buy a new home. As a seller, you should be wary of putting too much trust in a buyer. They might love your house and hope that they sell their home as quickly as possible to get your house. They would not buy if they could not sell their building.

 

In the same vein, the fault might be from the seller. Some sellers often based the sales of their house on the completion of a contract to purchase another home. If the latter fails, then the former would fail.

 

 

Validity and Originality of the Closing Documents

Real estate contract involves many documents which need to be verified and reviewed to avoid fraud. The reason for this is to discover the defect in the title of the property.  A property with a defective title is a property that has a publicly – recorded encumbrance like a lien, mortgage or judgment. In other words, the title in a property is said to be defective if a party other than the owner can lay a legal right or interest in a building. A defective title cannot be legally transferred. Thus, a contract will fail if the property in question has a defective title. Common defects in the title include bankruptcies, liens, etc.

 

Putting too much trust in a buyer or seller before the closing of the contract and the fulfillment of all necessary requirements could affect your chance of getting a potential buyer that could pay for the property. The fact that a person has agreed to your terms should not prevent you from negotiating another potential buyer.

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Bathroom Renovations That Can Help Sell Your Home

When potential buyers stroll through your home, they’re going to be looking for specific features and characteristics that best fit their lifestyles of ideal living situation. One of the biggest selling points in a home is a top-notch bathroom. This is because next to the kitchen, the bathrooms are one of the most used rooms in the home. They can inspire and introduce a sense of peace and calm if decorated correctly.

 

Here are a few bathroom renovations that you can make to help up the value of your home during resale.

 

 

1. Go Neutral

For the eccentric bunch who love brightly colored wallpapers and unique and peculiar decorations, your bathroom might be a bit harder to sell. This is because, for the most part, people enjoy neutral tones, as they present a blank palette where buyers can imagine themselves settling in. Just because the character that you’ve added to your bathroom may fit your personality, does not mean it will coincide with someone else’s. Crisp colors like white with added colorful accents tend to be the best.

 

 

2. Go Bright

Make sure that you’re up-to-date with the lighting fixtures in your bathroom. Not only do you want the lighting in your bathroom to be eye-catching, you also want it to be convenient and energy-friendly, especially in this day and age. You’re going to want lighting over the mirrors or vanity, as well as illumination that sits overhead. There should be no dark, grimy corners.

 

If you want to install windows instead, make sure to be weary of installing them in the line of the public eye. Your best bet is to try and install something along the lines of a skylight, which provides both natural light and necessary privacy.

 

 

3. Go Efficient

If you have water fixtures that are over two decades old, it may be time to install some that are new and efficient. Look for EPA-labeled WaterSense faucet, which can help to give your bathroom a fresh look and reduce your overall water flow. Install a spa-style shower head for multi-functional use and added efficiency.

 

You can also check out the variety of water-saving toilets, many of which aren’t nearly as expensive as they used to be! If you can tell your potential homebuyer that they will now be able to save hundreds on water a year thanks to your added fixtures, you’ll be able to put them in a good place.

 

 

Conclusion

There are a many other ways that you can upgrade your bathroom before a resale including changing the flooring, adding ventilation features, putting in a double sink, or adding some high-tech, tricked out bathroom features. You don’t have break out all of your savings to do so either. Be smart and shop around to find the best deals on top-notch fixtures and decorations.

 

Remember, homebuyers will be looking at every nook and cranny of your home if they’re smart. If your bathroom is clean, inviting, and up-to-date, you will have a much easier time trying to sell it! Have you recently remodeled your bathroom? Let us know about your experience in the comments!

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