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April 2017 - Hoeting Realtors

Creating A Patio Scene That Sells

Whether you’re selling an oceanfront property in Miami Beach or a Colorado mountain escape, a home’s outdoor space is often key in the potential homeowner’s willingness to say, “We’ll take it!” With property values on the rise, it’s important to create additional living space by bringing the indoors out.

Read more: Decks vs. Patios: Which Is More Popular?

No matter the size, creating an inviting area for entertainment and daily living doesn’t have to be a massive construction ordeal. Instead, just a few simple additions to the outdoor space can make all the difference. Let’s take a look at ways to create a refreshing outdoor scene that sells, complete with fresh patio furniture and accessories perfectly matched to the home’s architecture and surrounding scenery.

Work with What You’ve Got

While outdoor spaces are key to selling a property, there’s no need to do a complete overhaul. Instead, work with what you’ve got and take advantage of smart design to maximize the space. Overgrown lawns can look like new with some pruning, and weathered concrete patios can be given a new life with simple patio resurfacings or overlays. A good power wash can take years off of an outdoor space, while a slick coat of paint on some well-loved fences and trims can make all the difference at adding new life to a patio.

Channel Style with Outdoor Furniture

Elevating your patio with outdoor furniture is a sure way to have potential homeowners coming back for more. Like any room, furniture is essential for tying together a space—it channels style and makes it easier for clients to visualize themselves entertaining or lounging in the space.

The key is to channel the style of the demographic and the home. Are you selling a swanky Malibu pad fit for a movie star? Time to bring in some sleek and modern lounge chairs for late night business deals. Or are you working with a French-style chateau that would make anyone feel like royalty? Bring that outdoor space alive with an outdoor dining set with rustic wood accents perfect for big family gatherings.

Have Fun with Accessories

Once the outdoor furniture is in place, it’s time to put a bow on it with fun accessories. If the patio seems barren, remember that outdoor walls are perfect for metal wall art pieces and a new sconce or two. Bring outdoor dining areas to life with a centerpiece or some festive linens, and have fun with patterned pillows and lanterns around a seating area. Don’t forget a fashionable bar cart—it’s a great little addition for urban patios. No matter what style the home is, adding a few key accessories to the outdoor space will make all the difference at creating an appealing sell.

Source: An accredited ASID interior designer, Kerrie Kelly writes for The Home Depot and several other publications about decorating both indoor and outdoor spaces. She provides great advice on increasing backyard appeal by building an outdoor space with great patio furniture and some outdoor accessories.

Bathroom Staging Ideas to Sell a Home Faster

Bathroom Staging Ideas to Sell a Home Faster

April 3, 2017: With the spring selling season upon us, you want to make sure every corner of your listing is show-ready for the rush of buyers. You know the bathroom can make as big an impression as the bedroom or living room, but how often do you go the extra mile to stage it just as perfectly? Home staging expert Tori Toth has some simple ideas for making the bathroom a stronger selling point.

 

5 Tips to Prepare Your Home for Sale

By: G. M. Filisko

Working to get your home ship-shape for showings will increase its value and shorten your sales time.

Many buyers today want move-in-ready homes and will quickly eliminate an otherwise great home by focusing on a few visible flaws. Unless your home shines, you may endure showing after showing and open house after open house — and end up with a lower sales price. Before the first prospect walks through your door, consider some smart options for casting your home in its best light.

1.  Have a Home Inspection

Be proactive by arranging for a pre-sale home inspection. For $250 to $400, an inspector will warn you about troubles that could make potential buyers balk. Make repairs before putting your home on the market. In some states, you may have to disclose what the inspection turns up.

2.  Get Replacement Estimates

If your home inspection uncovers necessary repairs you can’t fund, get estimates for the work. The figures will help buyers determine if they can afford the home and the repairs. Also hunt down warranties, guarantees, and user manuals for your furnace, washer and dryer, dishwasher, and any other items you expect to remain with the house.

3.  Make Minor Repairs

Not every repair costs a bundle. Fix as many small problems — sticky doors, torn screens, cracked caulking, dripping faucets — as you can. These may seem trivial, but they’ll give buyers the impression your house isn’t well maintained.

4.  Clear the Clutter

Clear your kitchen counters of just about everything. Clean your closets by packing up little-used items like out-of-season clothes and old toys. Install closet organizers to maximize space. Put at least one-third of your furniture in storage, especially large pieces, such as entertainment centers and big televisions. Pack up family photos, knickknacks, and wall hangings to depersonalize your home. Store the items you’ve packed offsite or in boxes neatly arranged in your garage or basement.

5.  Do a Thorough Cleaning

A clean house makes a strong first impression that your home has been well cared for. If you can afford it, consider hiring a cleaning service.

If not, wash windows and leave them open to air out your rooms. Clean carpeting and drapes to eliminate cooking odors, smoke, and pet smells. Wash light fixtures and baseboards, mop and wax floors, and give your stove and refrigerator a thorough once-over.

Pay attention to details, too. Wash fingerprints from light switch plates, clean inside the cabinets, and polish doorknobs. Don’t forget to clean your garage, too.