5 tips how to save energy during summer

Summertime means an increase in temperature, and if you’re part of the majority of people in the U.S., it may also mean an increase in your utility bills as well. There are some changes you can make this summer that will help reduce your energy consumption and still keep you comfortable.

   

1.    Clean your air conditioning filters every month. Most people ignore the air filters until something goes wrong. Cleaning your air filters every month will help ensure that your system is functioning as efficiently as possible.

    2.    Unplug electronics when they’re not in use, or use a Smart Strip. Simply turning off the T.V. or other appliances won’t put a stop to your power consumption. While it might not make a huge difference, keeping items plugged in can add up over the year.

    3.    Shut doors and vents of unused rooms and use ceiling fans when you can. This can all lighten the load on your air conditioner.

    4.    Turn up your thermostat. Set your thermostat to 77 degrees when you are home and 85 degrees or off when you are away. You will save 1-3% per degree for each degree the thermostat is set above 72 degrees.

    5.    Shade your windows. Install patio covers, awnings, and solar window screens to shade your home from the sun. Also, plant trees, shrubs, and vines strategically to properly shade your windows and keep the sun from heating up your house.

Home Luxuries on a Budget

We all would love to have the homes we see in magazines and all over online design and idea sites. However, many of us just can’t justify spending the kind of money having those kinds of homes would take. There are still simple, inexpensive ways to add luxuries to your home.

Here are five home luxuries you can add on a budget:

1. Easily programmable or “smart” thermostats. The energy you use to heat and/or cool your home is probably a large part of your household budget, and your comfort plays a large part of the feeling of luxury in your home. Programmable or smart thermostats can raise and lower the temperature based on your activities, ultimately saving on energy costs. There are a number of options out there, and most of them retail for less than $350.

2. Crown molding or baseboards. Crown molding can be used to add detail to the ceiling, while chair molding can be added to protect and divide wall space. Decorative molding is an affordable way to add luxury and design to your home.

3. Updated light fixtures and lighting. Sometimes all you need to do to update the look of your home and add luxury is replacing old light fixtures with new ones. Also, consider adding tap-style lights under kitchen cabinetry. When placed in the space between cabinets and countertops, the subtle light will add an elegant ambiance after dark. The best part is that tap-style lights are usually less than $5 per light.

4. Built-ins. One way to add luxury to your home is to make it look and feel organized and clean. Built-in storage systems, desks, bookshelves, and even trash centers optimize your space.

5. Outdoor lighting. Drape your backyard or terrace in twinkle lights or outdoor lighting. Outdoor lights will add a chic ambiance to your yard. Also, outside candles can add to the atmosphere of your backyard.

Why You Shouldn't Buy That House

There are a lot of things to consider when buying a home. Making a list of must-haves should be the first step in the home buying process, but what about those items beyond the “must-haves?” Once you’ve found a home you think you want to buy, there are still some things you should think twice about before closing. Buyer’s remorse is real, and many new homebuyers find themselves facing its effects, and you don’t want to be one of them.

Consider these 4 things before signing on the dotted line:

    1.    Is the home too expensive for you? The amount you can qualify for and what you can actually afford can really be two different amounts. You constantly hear about people being “house poor,” meaning that they spend so much money on their mortgage every month that they have little money for anything else. If this is your first home, it’s important to think about the expenses you haven’t had to pay while renting that you may incur when purchasing a home. There may be sacrifices that you have to make as far as your budget goes. Are you prepared to make them? Don’t establish your home buying budget on what your lender says you can afford. Center it on what you honestly know you can afford and stick to it.

    2.    Is the location right? A good location should be toward the top of your list of “must-haves.” However, a good location doesn’t necessary mean it’s the right location for you and your family. Do you want or need space to play? Does the location make sense for your work commute? Are the schools in the location good schools you want to send your children to? Do you want to be near stores and other conveniences or would you prefer to be closer to the suburbs? Are you part of an HOA, and are you okay with that? If you compromise on your location, give it serious thought.  

    3.    Are you purchasing the home with intent to sell or refinance it within a short period of time? This was how so many people got in trouble and upside down in their homes in the first place – buying homes they couldn’t necessarily afford after the short-term financing terms changed, and assuming they would be able to sell or refinance the house. If you are purchasing a home, and you’re not an investor or contractor, plan on purchasing a home you and your family could live comfortably in for at least 5 years.

    4.    Are you unsure about your job security? While this economy can be unpredictable, and job security is becoming more and more a thing of the past, if you are trying to get into a home because you are concerned that an upcoming layoff might disqualify you for a home loan, maybe you should put off purchasing a new home until you are no longer concerned about an interruption of income. If you’re confident in your current career, can get work with another company easily, or have a large cushion of savings that could handle a temporary interruption of income, then proceed with the purchase. However, if you are seriously concerned about the short-term stability of your job, seriously consider whether purchasing a home is right for you.

Why School District Matters when Buying a Home

There are many things to consider when buying a new home. Of course you automatically consider price, location, square footage, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, and the condition of the home. However, something you might look over that is important to anyone purchasing a new home is the school district of the home.

According to the 2012 National Association of REALTORS® Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers, 25% of home buyers listed school quality and 19% listed proximity to schools as deciding factors in their home purchase.

Even if you don’t have school-age children, living in a good school district boosts property values. When it comes time to resell, you learn quickly that strong school districts are a top priority for many home buyers.

Parents of school-aged children often pay attention to a district’s performance ratings and are likely to pay more to want to live near public schools with higher scores. A school’s high rating can often drive up the price of a home.

Parents always want the best school they can afford for their kids. When you are buying a home, consider the resale value and how the school district could affect it. School districts and their boundaries, whether or not you have children, should always be on your radar when buying a home.

Keep your Lawn Green while Conserving Water

Summer is approaching and many of us have been outside getting our yards and lawns ready for the warmer weather.

Communities around the U.S. have started to impose water restrictions in an effort to conserve water resources. In some cases, utility companies will increase rates once customers pass a certain usage level. There are many creative ways to conserve water while maintaining a beautiful lawn this summer.

How Much Water Does My Lawn Need?

Using too much water when watering the lawn is a big mistake many homeowners make. Lawns generally don’t need as much water as we assume they do. One to two inches each week should be sufficient for any lawn. Excess moisture may even damage your lawn. Yellow or pale grass is a sign of overwatering.

Using a rain gauge can be helpful in determining how much water your lawn is receiving.

When Should I Water My Lawn?

It’s important to make sure you water your lawn at appropriate times. Watering your lawn in the morning or during the day will likely just waste water. Most of it will evaporate before it’s absorbed. The best time to water your lawn is in the late evening after the sun sets or during the early morning when the air is cool. Watering for just a few minutes every day only allows for the upper roots to thrive, while the lower root system dries out. Watering for a longer length of time just a few days a week allows the lower root system to get sufficient moisture.

Creative Lawn Watering Ideas that Conserve

    •    Kids love playing in the sprinklers. Allow your kids to play in the sprinklers and move the sprinkler around the lawn while they play to ensure all parts of the lawn are watered.
    •    If you have a kiddie pool, empty it over different parts of the lawn to recycle all that water.
    •    Give your pets a bath out on the lawn.
    •    Rinse off outdoor furniture on your lawn.
    •    After a picnic or barbeque, empty coolers over the lawn to reuse that water.

Seeing a Home's Potential

Shopping for a home for the first time can be very exciting. You have a list of “must-haves,” and you think you know exactly what you want and how your new home will look.

The only problem with this approach is that there are sometimes gems that get overlooked due to bad decorating, a neglected yard, or dated carpet and walls. If you can’t see past some more minor details and quirks of a home, you may be missing out on a home with great potential.

We are no longer in a buyer’s market, and many homes are being sold as soon as they are on the market. Being too picky might mean missing out, so learn where you are willing to bend a little on your expectations.

Qualities that can make a home a good investment:

Great Location
You will get a better return on your investment if you find a home that doesn’t necessarily have everything on your must-have list in a great neighborhood than any home in a less desirable neighborhood. Low turnover in a neighborhood is a great sign. Ask around and do your research to determine whether the home is in a good location.

Simple Upgrades and Cosmetic Changes
The home may not have granite countertops, stylish cabinets, or new carpet, but it might be a beautiful home in a great location with a great yard. Look at the cosmetic aspects of the home that you may be able to change or overlook. Envision what the house could be. Ask an interior designer or professional remodeler for their opinions.

A Desirable Floor Plan
Find a home with a basic layout that you like. The floor plan is one of the most important things about your home. If the floor plan isn’t exactly what you want, consider whether you can rearrange it, add on, or remodel at a low cost, and determine if it’s worth making an offer on the home.

Tips for a Successful Open House

Spring is almost upon us, which means Open House season is, too. If you’ve already listed your home, right now is the time to decide whether or not you want to hold an open house.

Holding an open house can be the best way to get as many prospective buyers in your home at one time. It’s an informal, pressure-free way for visitors to see your home and hopefully fall in love with it.

If you decide to hold an open house, here are some tips to make it as successful as possible:

    •    Sanitize and completely declutter your home. Clean your house better than you’ve ever cleaned it before. Make sure you pay attention to places that you normally don’t such as baseboards, corners, ceiling fans, cupboards, and closets. Remove all clutter from the house, especially in the closets. People visiting an open house will open the cupboards and closets to see inside. Wash the inside and outside of your windows, and don’t forget to clean up your yard.
    •    Stage your home. We cannot stress enough how important home staging is. If you aren’t comfortable with staging your home yourself, hire a home stager. Home staging is more than just decluttering and cleaning. Home staging is arranging and decorating your home in the most appealing way possible that allows potential buyers to see themselves living in your home. Staging includes everything from removing personal knick-knacks and photos to the smell of your home.
    •    Promote your home. If you have a good real estate agent, they should be able to help you promote your home in as many ways as possible. However, you can also promote your open house by placing signs around the neighborhood and community, handing out flyers, and using social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter. Also, don’t underestimate the power of “old” email marketing!
    •    Leave your home, and take your pets with you. Your real estate agent can be in charge of the tours. Let them do their job. If you’re not there, visitors will feel more comfortable touring the home and asking questions. Also, not everyone is going to love your pooch as much as you do. Remove all signs of any pets living in your home, if necessary, and don’t forget to take your pet with you during the open house.

Make Dollars out of Scents

Spruce up the Aroma of Your Home to Sell

When homebuyers walk into a home for sale all five senses are actively scanning the environment. The sense of smell can send a strong message to the brain while the brain is busy formulating a first impression.

Regardless of your home’s appearance, an unpleasant odor can turn buyers away. At the same time, pleasant aromas can invoke feelings of comfort, relaxation, happiness and peace.
Carefully selected scents can actually help you get more dollars out of your home when combined with other staging methods. We have experience in creating just the right setting to present your home for sale. Feel free to contact us for a no obligation consultation and tips to make your property even more desirable.

1. Dirt Stinks.

Let’s face it, no matter what kind of candle, spray or air freshener you use the fine scents will not cover up the smell of an unclean environment. The first smell to create is a clean smell. Don’t use overpowering industrial cleaners that leave strong scents behind. Even those scents are sometimes undesirable.
    •     Wash walls, baseboards, and floors
    •     Leave no dirty dishes in the sink or on counters
    •     Clean the garbage disposal regularly
    •     Keep trash cans empty
    •     Clean toilets regularly
    •     Eliminate all signs of mildew and mold
    •     Dust often
    •     Avoid smoking indoors
    •     Never leave dirty diapers in the house
    •     Keep laundry clean and put away
    •     Keep pets outside or keep litter box clean and fresh for indoor cats

2. People are Sensitive to Smells

Once your house is smelling clean and fresh, be very careful about the scents and methods of distributing those scents. Many people have allergies to spray air fresheners. Other people simply feel overpowered by the scent of a strong burning candle. Still others may associate certain smells with negative memories or experiences in their lives. Strong, overpowering smells may be offensive and may make buyers suspicious you are trying to cover up a bad smell.

3. Natural, Subtle Scents are Best

Play it safe by creating an atmosphere of natural scents and smells.

Place fresh, fragrant flowers in strategic locations throughout the home for a subtle, natural scent. Flowers from your own garden are wonderful! If not available, fresh flowers from the grocer will do just fine.

Consider whipping up a batch of fresh chocolate chip cookies as your guests arrive to create a homey feeling. Maybe you could choose the day of their visit to put a nice stew in the crock pot.
Creating just the right ambiance in your home when staging it to sell could net thousands more in the final sales price. Remember, don’t over do it. Natural is best.

5 home improvement ideas for under $5000

You may not necessarily be looking to buy a new home or sell your current home, but since your home is an asset, it’s important to occasionally spend some time and money on low-cost improvements. You don’t always have to spend tens of thousands of dollars on a project to improve the enjoyment and increase the value of your home.

Here are 5 home improvement ideas that will cost less than $5,000.

1. Replace the carpet. Is your carpet old? Do you hate the color? Is it in poor condition? It will costapproximately $200-$300 per room to replace the carpet in your home. You could also replace the carpetwith hardwood floors for approximately $1500-$2000 per room, depending on the materials you use andthe size of the room.

2. Update your bathroom. You could spend around $15,000 for a complete bathroom remodel, or youcouldspend less than $5,000 by just updating one or two things in your bathroom to make it moremodern. The average cost of swapping out a regular tub for a jetted tub will cost between $1,500 and$4,000. You couldalso update your sink for around $1,500. Other low-cost ideas to improve yourbathroom:
    •    Add a new mirror and faucet.
    •    Replace the floor.
    •    Add shelves and sconces.
    •    Update your current showerhead.
    •    Install heated towel bars. These usually cost about $100 each.
3. Paint. One of the most affordable home improvement projects is a new paint job. It’s also a simpledo-it-yourself project. A new coat of paint can provide an updated look to any room. You can even pickyour color from designer swatches, but have the paint department in your local home improvement storemix a more affordable, custom mix for you.

4. Update your home technology system. Connecting your home systems to be controlled by a singleremote control used to be a lot more expensive than it is now. From approximately $500 to $5,000, youcan wire your home systems to:
    •    Remotely control lighting, air conditioning, and heating;
    •    Monitor your home via video and sensors for security purposes;
    •    Control your audio systems including your stereo, TV, and computer.

5. Organize your home. Organizing your home can make a big difference in its appearance as well asyour own sanity. Consider building organization systems in your closets, pantries, garage, or storage areascustomized to fit your needs. The price for this ranges vastly depending on how you decide to customizeyour organization systems, but it can be relatively inexpensive and will make your life much easier.

Can I Submit Multiple Offers on Different Properties

Many homebuyers find themselves trying to decide on multiple homes. Sometimes a home might be a short sale and the homebuyer knows that the process can take some time or the offer might even be rejected. Some homebuyers are afraid they’ll miss out on a property they love while waiting on a counter-offer on a property they REALLY love.

So, can you submit multiple offers on several different properties?

First, it’s important to note that the laws in each state are different. The first thing you’ll want to do is ask an attorney about the laws in your state.

Next, realize that if you are under contract to purchase a home, that contract is legally binding, and breaching that contract can have its ramifications. The liability for breaching a contract depends on the language of the contract. It is possible to submit offers that will not bind you legally by simply just making an offer. Just be fully aware and discuss your contract with both your attorney and your real estate agent. Many contracts offer a 10-day inspection period that allows a buyer to immediately cancel the contract if they disapprove of items discovered during the inspection period. While this isn’t merely a way for you to get out of your contract, it may be an option for you.

Be aware of any lender’s addendums, especially for bank owned properties. These may contain language that shortens or eliminates the inspection period.

If you happen to have multiple offers accepted and you can’t get out of your contract, you will be under contract to purchase more than one home. Keep in mind that it’s always easier not to write an offer than it is to cancel a contract.

Every situation is different, however. If you plan on purchasing a short sale, it’s likely you will submit multiple offers. Because the wait period can be so long to hear back from the bank on a short sale property, and the answer can likely be “no,” some homebuyers want to make sure they have options.

If you decide to make multiple offers on several homes, make sure you are working with an experienced, competent real estate agent that you trust. Look over the contracts carefully before signing anything and discuss them with your attorney when necessary. If you don’t, you could end up losing your earnest deposit on multiple homes or even worse, be legally obligated to purchase more than one home.

If you only intend to purchase one home, it’s best to make an offer on one home at a time and avoid any potential legal or ethical issues.

If you have any questions regarding the purchase of a new home, contact us today.

Should You Buy a Distressed Property

Many houses on the market right now are distressed properties. Distressed properties include those whose owners have defaulted or are about to default on their mortgages. In many cases, distressed properties can be less expensive that comparable homes for sale.

There are a number of different types of distressed properties:

    •    Short Sale. In a short sale, the homeowner can't afford to maintain the mortgage. Rather than foreclosing on the home, the lender agrees to the sale of the property for less than the balance of the loan. Short sales give both lenders and homeowners an option other than foreclosure.

    •    Foreclosure Auction. Banks and other lenders will auction off properties that have been repossessed from homeowners who have defaulted on their mortgage loans. Foreclosure auctions are usually held at public facilities such as courthouses. The auctions are generally best left to investors with cash available to spend. All bids have to be backed up with the money for the entire sale price up front. Also, houses usually purchased at an auction are purchased site unseen.

    •    REO (real estate owned) Foreclosure. When people describe a distressed property as a “foreclosure,” they are usually referring to an REO foreclosure. These are bank or lender owned properties that you purchase directly from the lender in a process that is similar to a typical home sale.

The advantages of purchasing a distressed property:

A distressed home will sometimes be priced significantly lower than it would be sold for if it were not a distressed property. That doesn’t mean all distressed homes will be cheaper than all other homes that aren’t distressed, however. If there are a lot of foreclosures in an area, prices of non-distressed homes tend to be lower, too. In some cases of distressed properties, you can offer to purchase the home for less than the asking price. There is little to no emotion involved with a seller on distressed properties since you’ll be dealing with the lender instead.

The disadvantages of purchasing a distressed property:

Distressed homes take more time and effort to purchase. They require a lot of paperwork, and you might end up waiting a long time just to have your offer rejected. Depending on the property, it may need many major repairs. Many distressed properties have been vacant for a while with no continuous maintenance. Lenders generally sell distressed homes as-is. There is often a lot of competition when purchasing distressed properties with other buyers and investors. More competition leads to higher prices.


If you have any questions about purchasing a distressed property, contact us today. We can guide you through the home buying process and help you determine if buying a distressed property is right for you.

Tips for Decorating Small Rooms

If decorated poorly, small rooms can seem claustrophobic and uncomfortable. However, there are many design and decorating tips that can make the room look bigger than it is and give the illusion of space.

Here are some decorating tips and tricks to making a small room look bigger:

    •    Choose light colors. Light colors make rooms look bigger and maximize the effect created by natural light. Dark colors make rooms appear smaller because they absorb light.

    •    Use multi-function furniture. Multipurpose furniture such as sofa beds, chest of drawers, beds with storage drawers, and extendable dining tables can all save space and help keep small rooms looking clean and organized.

    •    The more light, the better. If you can let natural light in, it will open up the room a lot. Make sure that any window coverings are sheer and/or pulled back. If there isn’t a lot of natural light in the room, adding more light fixtures will give a similar effect.

    •    Keep the room organized. Having too much clutter will make a room feel and look very cramped. Don’t cover walls with a lot of pictures. Limit the number of accessories in the room as well.

    •    Add mirrors. Mirrors give rooms an illusion of depth. Use a focal point and angle the mirrors toward it.

Debating between a townhome and single-family home

When buying a home, one of the fundamental questions you will ask yourself is whether you want a townhome or condo or a single family home. There are advantages and disadvantages to both and depending on your needs, one may be a better option for you than the other.

Consider the following when trying to decide between a townhome/condo and a single-family house:

•    Budget – Generally, townhomes and condos are less expensive than their single-family home counterparts. Because single-family houses are generally bigger than condos and townhomes, the heating and air conditioning bills will most likely be bigger as well. Determine your budget to help you decide what will be best for you financially.
   
•    Location – Do your research to make sure the location and neighborhood you’re looking at is safe and worth your investment. If you want to live in the heart of the city, a condo may be your best option.
   
•    Yard and Home Maintenance – Do you want a yard your children can play in with a garden you can maintain? Or would you rather not bother with a yard at all? When you own a house, you will be responsible for all the maintenance, so make sure that’s something you’re willing and able to take on. The bigger the property, the more it will cost to maintain.
   
•    Privacy – In a townhome or condo, there’s a good chance that you will occasionally hear your neighbors, and they’ll occasionally hear you – no matter how well the home is built. You may have to share a hallway or back or front yard as well. If you want complete privacy, a single-family home may be the best option for you. However, if you find comfort in having close neighbors, consider a townhome or condo.
  
•    Homeowner Associations – Homeowner associations include fees and shared decision-making. They help keep neighborhoods clean and help maintain home values in the neighborhood. Most of the time, townhomes and condos are part of homeowners associations. You’ll need to decide if you’ll use the amenities you pay for with your HOA fees. If you want complete control of the decisions regarding your home, consider a single-family home.
   
•    Family Lifestyle – If you don’t have any children, or don’t plan to have children for a while, a townhome or condo can simplify your life and limit maintenance you’ll have to do on the home. If you want pets, many condos and townhomes don’t permit them, so do your homework.


Cobblestone Realty, Providing residential real estate services in Jupiter, Tequesta, Juno Beach, Palm Beach Gardens and the greater Palm Beach and Martin Counties

Spring Cleaning Checklist

The arrival of spring brings with it many new projects and the time to tackle annual spring cleaning.

Here is a spring cleaning checklist that will help keep your home in great shape:

• Clean out your attic, garage, storage room, and closets. Throw away or donate unwanted items.
• Put away winter items such as gloves, boots, coats, pants, etc. to make room for a warmer wardrobe.
• Power wash the exterior of your home, windows, porch, deck, patio, driveway, and sidewalks.
• Clean outdoor furniture and light fixtures.
• Clean out gutters.
• Put a new coat of stain on wooden decks and sheds.
• Check the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
• Wipe down doorframes, walls and baseboards.
• Clean out sliding door tracks.
• Lubricate all door hinges.
• Deep clean carpets or have the professionally cleaned.
• Clean under furniture and appliances.
• Dust and clean blinds and shutters.
• Dust indoor light fixtures.
• Clean out the refrigerator and freezer.
• Clean out your pantry, cabinets, and drawers and discard expired spices and other food.
• Reseal and repair grout in bathtubs and showers.
• Go through medicine cabinets and safely discard any outdated medications.
• Wash and dry shower curtains and liners.
• Rotate and/or flip mattresses and clean comforters, bed skirts, and pillows.
• Wash or dry-clean rugs.

 

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5 Natural Ways to Eliminate Household Odors:

1.    Sprinkle baking soda on your carpets and/or rugs. Leave the baking soda on the carpet for 1-3 hours then vacuum it out.
   
2.    Place 1-2 dryer sheets in your trash bin to soak up those garbage odors.
    
3.    To freshen up a smelly sink or garbage disposal, pour 1-2 cups of lemon juice in the sink and down the drain. Let it sit for 30 minutes before rinsing it out.
    
4.    Remove the smell of burnt food and other kitchen odors by adding a half cup of vinegar to one quart of water and allowing it to simmer on the stove for 5-10 minutes.
    
5.    Eliminate odors from your freezer by soaking a cotton ball in vanilla extract. Swipe it all around the inside of your freezer to get rid of those leftover freezer food smells.

Top 5 Mortgage Tips for First-Time Homebuyers

When it comes to qualifying for a mortgage for the first time, the process can seem a little intimidating. However, if you are prepared and know what to expect, the process can go much more smoothly with little delays in processing and paperwork.

Mortgage lending standards are different now than they were five or six years ago. Securing a mortgage loan can take some time – even months – so start the process early, so when you find the home you want, you will already be on your way to securing a loan.

Here are the top 5 mortgage tips for first-time homebuyers:
  
    1.    Get your finances in order. Make sure you know what you can afford. Get out of debt, and save enough for both your down payment and any closing costs or fees associated with the closing. Also, pull your credit report so there are no surprises when the lender reviews it. Even small issues with your finances can keep you from getting the best mortgage rates or even securing a loan.
   
    2.    Gather all necessary documentation. There is a lot of documentation required when applying for a mortgage loan. You will need the at least the following: Your last two W2 forms, the last two months of your bank statements, the last two years of your income tax returns, and the last two months of your check stubs. There may be more that your lender needs, but if you have the above-mentioned documents organized and ready during your first meeting with your lender, it can avoid a big delay in the process trying to track these documents down.
   
    3.    Get pre-approved. Work with a lender you trust to determine how much you can afford and what your monthly payments would be. A pre-approval is different from prequalification. A pre-approval letter shows that your lender evaluated your complete financial situation and credit history and determined an acceptable loan amount for you. The pre-approval letter puts you in a stronger position to make an offer on a home. It can be a good negotiating tool, if necessary.
  
    4.    Leave your credit alone. While going through the process of searching for homes, do not open any new credit cards or installment loans. Do not purchase a new car or anything else you may have to finance. Make sure all your bills are paid on time, especially during this period. You lender will likely pull another credit report before closing, and if there is any negative information that was not there before, it can adversely affect your ability to close on your new home.
  
    5.    Do not buy more home than you know you can afford. Only you know your financial limits. Just because you qualify for a $400,000 home may not mean you should purchase a $400,000 home. Spending too much on a home can leave little money left for bills, maintenance, emergencies, savings, and even fun things like vacations. Typically, most lenders suggest that you spend no more than 28% of your monthly income on a mortgage.

House Hunting: Open Houses

For some potential homebuyers, open houses provide a way for them to start making a list of what they like and what they don’t. Often, open houses provide a casual environment to determine how online photos translate into the real world. For other homebuyers, open houses provide opportunities to see many homes with their real estate agent without setting up appointments with all the different sellers.


 If you choose to visit open houses, here are three ways to ensure that you don’t waste any time during your house hunt when you visit open houses.

    1.    Prepare in advance. Make sure you do your research and have a plan. Know what homes you are going to see and what order you’ll see them in. This will save a lot of time and potential headaches. Discuss your plan with your real estate agent in advance.
    2.    Take notes and compare properties. Right after you visit an open house, take some time to write down notes about the home. Identify property features, initial impressions, concerns, what you like, and what you don’t like. Don’t rely solely on your memory. You can view 10-20 houses before you start finding those you would consider buying, and often, you’ll want to go back and review a home you’ve visited. Once you’ve completed your open house tour for the day, compare your notes about the properties you saw. Discuss what you liked and didn’t like with your real estate agent.
    3.    Ask questions while visiting the open house. Don’t automatically assume that you can get all the information you need just by walking through the home. Ask the person on-duty if they are the listing agent and can answer questions you may have. Ask questions such as:

-       How long has the home been on the market?
-       Have the owners received any offers? If so, why were those offers rejected?
-       Why are the owners selling the home?
-       What amenities and/or furniture are being sold with the house?
-       What other costs are associated with owning the home (i.e. HOA fees, etc.)?

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When do you need a real estate lawyer, and what does it cost?

Lately I have had a large number of home-buyers come to me after the 10-day cooling-off period in their offer has expired. When I ask why they waited, I get one of two standard responses: “I didn’t think I needed a lawyer until it was time to close,” and “The sales agent told me I didn’t need a lawyer until it was time to close.” Wrong on both counts – get a lawyer early!

A lawyer must advise you at the time you make your offer, and it is critical that you see a lawyer before your deal is firm. It is important that your lawyer explains all the costs you will face, and the potential changes and delays you may encounter. Insist on this, and if you don’t get what you want or need, see another lawyer. Lawyers are service providers, just like anyone else, and as the customer, you should get the necessary information to make an educated decision. There is a clothing retail chain that I remember in Florida that has a slogan which sounds sort of like, “An educated consumer is our greatest asset.” This holds true for much of life and seeing as a home is one of the most important purchases you will ever make, it’s your job to become an educated consumer.

Okay, what about that lawyer? First of all, you are going to pay the fee – whatever the amount the two of you agreed upon. You did of course have a pre-agreed fee, didn’t you? Then there is the list of disbursements. Disbursements are those monies expended by your lawyer on your behalf which are necessary to properly search and seal the deal. Be careful, it is here that someone may try to take advantage by charging large fax, mail and photocopy fees. Make your lawyer justify all expenditures that don’t make sense.

Disbursements are generally between $450 and $650, and include such things as electronic searches, registration, execution searches, title insurance, cheque certification, status certificates for condos, and more. Don’t forget about the applicable taxes.

Generally speaking, your first meeting with your lawyer should be free until the time you retain him or her as your lawyer. Retain? What that simply means is “hire.” Make sure the retainer agreement is in writing and that it sets out all of the services the lawyer is going to perform and what the lawyer’s and staff’s hourly rates may be if they perform services in excess of those included in your “package price.” Make sure you get a disbursement list with suggested maximums so that you have something to work from in your budgeting. When you retain your lawyer, you want the same certainty you would get in any contract.

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20 Questions Homebuyers Should Ask Themselves

When you start the home buying process for the first time, you will generally start with a “wish list.” You generally add everything you could possibly include in your dream home. Many experienced real estate agents usually find some inconsistencies in these wish lists. For example, you want a home close to the city but in a safe, suburban area. Or possibly you want an old Victorian home with new amenities, but your budget may not include extra funds to update anything in the home.

It’s important to be honest with yourself about what you really need, what you want, and what you can honestly afford. Sometimes it can be difficult to decipher between wants and needs. Here are 20 questions to ask yourself when looking for your first home.

1. What can I truly afford? Have I set my budget?
2. How many bedrooms do I need? How many children do I currently have, and how many more do I plan on having?
3. Do I need a basement or an attic?
4. How close to work do I need to be? Do I hate driving in traffic? Do I use public transportation frequently?
5. Do I want to care for a yard and/or garden or do I want a maintenance-free yard?
6. Do I have frequent guests? Will I need an extra guestroom or bathroom?
7. Do I want a special playroom or area for my kids?
8. Will my children walk to school, take a bus, or will I have to drive them?
9. Do I need a garage? Will a covered parking space suffice?
10. How far away is the closest grocery store?
11. What is my favorite form of recreation and how far do I have to travel to do it?
12. How far away do my extended family and close friends live? Do I want to be near them?
13. How much work am I willing to put into the home? Do I have the time?
14. How much money do I have in my budget for the utilities and extra amenities?
15. What kind of floor plan do I want?
16. Do I want to live in a new neighborhood or an established one?
17. How much storage will I need?
18. How far away is my house of worship?
19. What is the crime rate and history of the neighborhood?
20. Do I own a boat, RV, ATV, snowmobile, camper, etc. and have easy access to locations to use these?







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Is your property photo ready?

COBBLESTONE REALTY



So, the asking price for the property has been agreed upon and every room is edited and de-cluttered. The property is staged and the architectural features are highlighted – not the lovely assortment of figurines that have been collected over the years. Now the property is ready to be photographed and marketed. This is one of the most important details when listing a property for sale, because if the photos are not fantastic, no one will show up to see your house in person.



Everyone looking to purchase a property is looking at the photos online first. The pictures need to accurately represent each room. Wide-angle photography is perhaps the most deceiving. Of course, it has its place in small rooms like washrooms, dens or home offices. But often, wide-angle photography completely distorts not only the furniture, but the actual space in the room. Any linear features in the room will be “warped” like hardwood floors, tiles, patterned carpets and even cabinetry. These lenses can make an arm chair look like a sofa. The interior of a small property looks like a 5,000-sq.-ft. home. All in all, a turn-off to potential buyers who show up and see something completely different than what they were expecting.



A photograph taken on a normal setting will show the space in a truer form. Take photos showing the transition from room to room if possible. This allows the buyer to get a feel for the flow of the property. And remember to turn on all the lights and lamps, even if you are taking the photos during the day.



When shooting your photos, consider what is in the forefront. Ensure each piece of furniture is as visible as possible. Stand in a corner of the room because often, the shots taken at an angle are better than those taken head-on.



I cannot stress this enough: please clean and tidy each room. I actually saw a photograph online that had a blue recycle bin – yes, the one from the back lane – in the kitchen. The same property was represented online with unmade beds, piles of dirty laundry, and the ever-decorative overflowing ashtrays strewn throughout every room.



Remember, the first impression is the only impression, so make it count!

3 Suprising Things Buyers Look For

 Posted By: Cobblestone Realty

When listing your home, you always think of the essential things such as the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, square footage, and obvious amenities. However, there are certain things that many buyers look for that sellers often forget to mention in their listings and marketing materials.
Here are three surprising things buyers look for when purchasing a new home that you should consider if you are selling your home:
    1.    Storage and organization. Most first-time home buyers have been used to renting and having limited storage space that they are so excited to get into a home where they will finally have a clutter-free area to store their items. If you have extra storage space, organized closets and/or pantries, or other built-in storage amenities, it’s worth mentioning in your home’s marketing materials.
    2.    Energy efficiency and “green” living. Many energy efficient features are very budget friendly for homebuyers. Homebuyers understand that utility costs are additional to the purchase of their home, and it’s something they will consider in their budget. If your home has dual paned windows or new insulation, mention it. If you are including energy efficient appliances in your home, mention it. There are many buyers who are attracted to “green” environments, so if you have a “green” home, many homebuyers will appreciate it.
    3.    Updated design and colors. When you’ve lived in your home for over 10 years, you often get used to the design and colors you chose 10 years ago. When selling your home, remember that you are selling to a new audience. Update your colors, but keep them neutral. Update any outdated or kitschy design elements you have. Hiring a home stager is a great investment and can help you sell your home faster and make it more appealing to new homebuyers.

Categories: Advertising, Competition, General Real Estate, Helpful Tips, House and Home, Marketing, Markets/Economy, National Topics, New Trends, Other, People, Places/Spaces, Real Estate News, Real Estate Practices, Service/Services

Inspecting the inspector: Do your due diligence when hiring a pro

A house is probably the highest-priced purchase a person will ever make, so I find it shocking how often I hear comments like, “You know, I spent more time researching and picking out my new TV than I did buying this house...”

However wrong it seems, this is the accepted reality of how the buying and selling of homes works these days. One protection that you, as a home-buyer, have to ensure a smart and safe purchase, is to make your offer conditional on a home inspection. Beyond that, do your due diligence and hire a qualified and reputable home inspector who will work for you to protect your best interest.
Consider this list when interviewing potential home inspectors:



» Is the inspector independent from other influences (like a real estate agent or the home seller) and truly working for you?



» Are you allowed to attend the inspection, and will the inspector review the report with you once completed?



» What is the inspector’s experience and training? People automatically think that being an engineer or contractor qualifies someone to be a home inspector. Although these are excellent attributes, nothing tops proper training and membership in a professional association like the Canadian Association of Home and Property Inspectors (CAHPI).



» If an inspector claims to inspect according to CAHPI standards but isn’t a member, there’s an important ingredient missing. If there is a problem with the inspector or the work they do, they can’t be held accountable by the association.



» How long will the inspection take? A CAHPI standards-of-practice inspection for a 2,000-sq.-ft. house is seldom less than 3.5 hours (including report writing).



» What kind of report will the inspector provide? If there isn’t a written or computerized report, the inspection does not meet the standards of practice.



» Be clear on what your inspector will be checking. Don’t assume the inspection includes appliances, wood-burning fireplaces, pool, hot tub, septic or well systems. Ask up-front in case additional arrangements and costs are involved.



» You’ll probably ask for references and read testimonials online, but who is providing them? We all have friends who will say nice things about us. Do you due diligence.



» As a “smart consumer” society, we’ve all been programmed to price-shop, but a home inspection is the place to skimp on quality. You get what you pay for.

Rent to Own - How Does it Work?

 

Rent-to-own can sometimes be a great alternative for both seller and buyer. Some buyers may not have enough cash saved for a down payment or they may be working to improve their credit but can’t get the loan they need. Some sellers may find themselves unable to sell their home when they’ve purchased a new one. In these cases, rent-to-own, sometimes called lease-to-own, may be the best option.

With a rent-to-own option, renters pay a certain amount each month to live in the home, just as they would with any rental. However, at the end of a predetermined period – usually within three years – the renter is given the option to buy the house. Each month of rent becomes income for the seller, while a set portion of the rent goes toward a down payment to eventually purchase the house.
Renting-to-own has advantages and disadvantages for both parties, so the contract for this type of transaction needs to be detailed and clear to all parties involved.
Seller Advantages/Disadvantages
    •    Sellers who have already purchased another home will have relief from paying two mortgages at once.
    •    Sellers can use the rent they collect to pay the existing mortgage on the old home, which can ease the financial burden.
    •    Renters who sign a rent-to-own agreement generally treat the home and community better than other typical renters since they plan on staying in the home long-term.
    •    If a renter does back out at the end of the agreement period, the seller gets to keep the option fee and rent premiums as income. However, the seller is then back to square one and will need to either find different renters or try to sell the home.
    •    The seller decides the sale price and monthly rent amount. These amounts are subject to negotiation, just as in any other real estate transaction, but once the amounts are set and a contract is signed, the sale price is locked in until the end of the rental term. Even if the market changes, the agreed upon amount is final.
    •    At the end of the rental period, the buyer still may not be able to buy the home for the same reasons they couldn't buy at the start of the lease, such as bad credit, insufficient down payment, or not enough income.
Buyer Advantages/Disadvantages
    •    Buyers who don’t have a large enough down payment or those who may not have good credit can often choose this option and take the extra time to save more money and/or repair credit issues while they rent the home.
    •    Buyers pay an option fee, which will become part of the down payment. Also, a portion of the rent generally goes toward the down payment.
    •    In most cases, buyers still have the option to not purchase the home at the end of the agreement; however, the seller will keep the option fee and the rent premium.
    •    If the buyer is just one day late on a month’s rent payment, most agreements void the rent credit for that month, so rent must be paid on time every month.
    •    If the seller fails to pay the original mortgage on the house, it may be foreclosed and the buyer will be forced to move.
Because of the many details and concerns on both sides of the rent-to-own transaction, both buyer and seller should obtain the assistance of a real estate attorney (two different attorneys) so that each party is fully aware of their rights and responsibilities.

Categories: Contracts/Legal, Finance, General Real Estate, Helpful Tips, House and Home, Loans, Markets/Economy, National Topics, New Trends, Other, People, Real Estate News, Real Estate Practices, Service/Services

Presented by Cobblestone Realty LLC, South Florida Real Estate

What Real Estate Agents Wish You Knew

For Buyers:

1. When looking to buy a home, do not get any new loans or use credit cards heavily.

The preapproval letter is just the beginning of the process. Once you get preapproved, don’t run out to start buying things for your new home on credit. Just before closing, most lenders will pull your credit again to re-examine your financial situation. If your credit has changed since the preapproval, you may have a higher interest rate, or even worse, you may not get the loan. It’s best to maintain your frugality even after living in the home for a few months to get an idea of how much it will cost you to live in your new home.

2. Prequalification does not mean preapproval.

In a prequalification, the lender generally doesn’t verify all the buyer’s information. A preapproval required third-party verification. If you are a serious buyer, get preapproved before looking at homes. That means you’ve already applied for the loan, your financial information has been verified, and you’ve been given a specific loan amount and interest rate.

For Sellers:

1. Selling a home usually takes longer than you think.

Most people underestimate the time it takes for a house to sell due to unrealistic expectations. These unrealistic expectations can often cause more stress. Make sure you communicate your expectations with your real estate agent then be open to suggestions and advice and a more realistic timeline. Give yourself a minimum of four to six months to sell your home.

2. The little details make a big difference.

Your home needs to look good, feel good, and smell good when you are preparing to sell it. The home should always be ready to show. Messy rooms, poor staging, and odors will turn prospective buyers off quickly. Always leave a warm, comfortable, and inviting impression.

Categories: Service/Services, Real Estate Practices, Real Estate News, People, Other, Opinion, New Trends, Markets/Economy, Marketing, House and Home, Helpful Tips, General Real Estate, Advertising



Brought to you by Cobblestone Realty

Seeing a Homes Potential

Shopping for a home for the first time can be very exciting. You have a list of “must-haves,” and you think you know exactly what you want and how your new home will look.

The only problem with this approach is that there are sometimes gems that get overlooked due to bad decorating, a neglected yard, or dated carpet and walls. If you can’t see past some more minor details and quirks of a home, you may be missing out on a home with great potential.

We are no longer in a buyer’s market, and many homes are being sold as soon as they are on the market. Being too picky might mean missing out, so learn where you are willing to bend a little on your expectations.

Qualities that can make a home a good investment:

Great Location
You will get a better return on your investment if you find a home that doesn’t necessarily have everything on your must-have list in a great neighborhood than any home in a less desirable neighborhood. Low turnover in a neighborhood is a great sign. Ask around and do your research to determine whether the home is in a good location.

Simple Upgrades and Cosmetic Changes
The home may not have granite countertops, stylish cabinets, or new carpet, but it might be a beautiful home in a great location with a great yard. Look at the cosmetic aspects of the home that you may be able to change or overlook. Envision what the house could be. Ask an interior designer or professional remodeler for their opinions.

A Desirable Floor Plan
Find a home with a basic layout that you like. The floor plan is one of the most important things about your home. If the floor plan isn’t exactly what you want, consider whether you can rearrange it, add on, or remodel at a low cost, and determine if it’s worth making an offer on the home.

Categories: Finance, General Real Estate, Helpful Tips, House and Home, Markets/Economy, National Topics, New Trends, Other, People, Places/Spaces, Real Estate Practices

Stage your home to Sell

The decision to buy a home is often made within 15 seconds of walking through the front door. To make a great first impression, and to ensure the best price for your home, consider home staging. Home Staging is the process of setting the scene throughout your home to create buyer interest.

Benefits of Home Staging

Studies show that home staging often results in a higher price than homes that are not staged, all other things being equal. The money that you invest in staging usually results in a high return on investment in terms of getting a number closer to their sale price..

Clean Up and Remove All Clutter

Potential buyers don’t want to see how you live. They want to picture themselves living in your home. When cleaning for home staging, clean every surface including windows (inside and out) and window sills, ledges, door knobs, ceiling fans, shelves, mini blinds, ceiling and floor corners, and baseboards. Remove all tile grout with bleach. Caulk areas around sinks and bathtubs. Consider hiring a maid service to ensure a thorough cleaning. The benefits of home staging will be worth the cost.

Get your carpets professionally cleaned, especially if you have pets. Even if you don’t, professionally cleaned carpets are far more appealing than worn out, stained ones.

Potential homebuyers will open your cupboards and closets. Make sure they’re organized neatly. Every storage area in your home should be neat, clean, organized, and clutter-free.

To Decorate or Not to Decorate

You need to show your home at its best potential to buyers. You are selling your home, not what’s inside it. Remove rugs, eliminate clutter and knick-knacks, and cut down on furniture. Take down your wedding photos, religious items, school pictures, and collection of refrigerator art. Rearrange furniture so it is conducive to a smooth traffic flow. Make the rooms as spacious as possible.

Consider replacing the towels in your bathrooms and kitchen with a couple of fresh new ones. Remove all personal items from countertops, and place a plant on the bathroom vanity. Remove all dirty laundry from sight. Add a centerpiece to your dining room table if you don’t already have one. Place plants in clean, attractive containers. Add a fresh, non-offensive fragrance to your home using potpourri, scented oils, or scented wax (as candle smoke can stain walls) such as cinnamon or vanilla. Many agents are even advising homeowners to bake a fresh batch of cookies if they know they will be showing their home.

A fresh coat of paint in a neutral color will also go a long way.

Your front porch is the first thing people see. If you have any dead or tattered planters, replace them with fresh ones. Keep all planters watered and trimmed. Keep your porch clean and inviting. Replace your front door handle if necessary, and put a stylish wreath on the door.

Home Staging can be a project you can do yourself, but if you want to invest in a professional Home Stager, the benefits are often worth the cost.

Categories: People, Other, Opinion, New Trends, House and Home, Helpful Tips, Real Estate News, Places/Spaces, Service/Services, Real Estate Practices, Competition, General Real Estate, Advertising

Signs that you have outgrown your house

Once you’ve tripped over your kids’ toys for the 50th time or have to store pantry items in your linen closet, you may start dreaming of moving to a larger house. But how do you know if you’ve really outgrown your home?
According to Barbara Sukkau, a past president of the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA), many homeowners start eyeing property listings after they’ve reached a new life milestone. “Homeowners tell me that their house feels too small after another child joins the family or when an elderly parent moves in. To them, it can feel like their house has more people in it than closets,” Sukkau says.

Sukkau recommends homeowners meet with a realtor to determine the value of their current home and decide what price range they can afford for a larger house. “Once you know your budget, your realtor will know whether or not you can find a larger home within your price range in the neighbourhood you want.”

While some homeowners renovate to solve their cramped-quarter issues, this is not always the best solution. “Some municipalities prevent you from building an extension onto the home or from adding an apartment in the basement,” Sukkau says. “Living through an extensive renovation is stressful, especially when you have kids. A realtor can help you sell your home for the best price to make it easier for you to buy your next home. You may find the perfect house already exists and you won’t have to try to build it yourself.”

OREA points out some other signs that it may be time for you to move:
- Your kids can no longer share a bedroom comfortably.
- Belongings you want to keep are stuck in a rented storage unit.
- You now work from home and need an office that’s quiet and clutter-free.

A realtor’s extensive training can help homeowners decide if it’s time to move or not. Realtors, who are regulated by the province, work for your best interests. Visit HowRealtorsHelp.ca for more helpful information about selling your home.

Debating Between a Townhome and a Single-Family House?

When buying a home, one of the fundamental questions you will ask yourself is whether you want a townhome or condo or a single family home. There are advantages and disadvantages to both and depending on your needs, one may be a better option for you than the other.

Consider the following when trying to decide between a townhome/condo and a single-family house:

• Budget – Generally, townhomes and condos are less expensive than their single-family home counterparts. Because single-family houses are generally bigger than condos and townhomes, the heating and air conditioning bills will most likely be bigger as well. Determine your budget to help you decide what will be best for you financially.
• Location – Do your research to make sure the location and neighborhood you’re looking at is safe and worth your investment. If you want to live in the heart of the city, a condo may be your best option.
• Yard and Home Maintenance – Do you want a yard your children can play in with a garden you can maintain? Or would you rather not bother with a yard at all? When you own a house, you will be responsible for all the maintenance, so make sure that’s something you’re willing and able to take on. The bigger the property, the more it will cost to maintain. 
• Privacy – In a townhome or condo, there’s a good chance that you will occasionally hear your neighbors, and they’ll occasionally hear you – no matter how well the home is built. You may have to share a hallway or back or front yard as well. If you want complete privacy, a single-family home may be the best option for you. However, if you find comfort in having close neighbors, consider a townhome or condo.
• Homeowner Associations – Homeowner associations include fees and shared decision-making. They help keep neighborhoods clean and help maintain home values in the neighborhood. Most of the time, townhomes and condos are part of homeowners associations. You’ll need to decide if you’ll use the amenities you pay for with your HOA fees. If you want complete control of the decisions regarding your home, consider a single-family home.
• Family Lifestyle – If you don’t have any children, or don’t plan to have children for a while, a townhome or condo can simplify your life and limit maintenance you’ll have to do on the home. If you want pets, many condos and townhomes don’t permit them, so do your homework.

Contact Cobblestone Realty Today (561) 429-3340 for all of your Real Estate needs.

5 Mistakes Sellers Make

When deciding to sell your home, it’s important to avoid the big mistakes that will keep your home from selling.

Here are 5 mistakes that many sellers make that will either cause a home to stay on the market too long or, at the other end of the spectrum, cause a seller to leave money on the table.

1. Hiring the wrong agent. Don’t hire a real estate agent just because he or she is a friend or family member. This is a business transaction. Hire a real estate agent with a good track record. Get referrals from friends and neighbors, and do your research.  
2. Overpricing. This can be the biggest mistake a seller makes. If your home is overpriced, you will receive less interest in your home as well as fewer offers. If you want your listing to perform well in a competitive market, you need to price it competitively. Work with your real estate agent to determine the right price for your home that both you and your potential buyers will be happy with.
3. Ignoring the importance of home staging. Presentation is everything. Hire a home stager or stage your home yourself. Either way, make sure the home has a fresh coat of paint, the carpet is clean, the furniture is arranged in a way that makes it easy to walk through the home. Take down family photos and knick-knacks so potential buyers can picture themselves living in the home. Always make sure the home is as clean as it can be when there is a showing scheduled. Don’t forget the home’s curb appeal. Staging your home can make a big difference in the number of offers you’ll receive.
4. Prematurely accepting an offer. Being up against a deadline should never be an excuse of accepting an offer that is too low. You might be excited when you get your first offer, but you need to allow yourself enough time to see what other offers you may receive. Buyers need to compete on price. Respond to the offers quickly when they come in, but make sure the offer is at or above the price you’ve already agreed on. Let your home be properly exposed to the market and remain on the MLS long enough to receive multiple offers. However, if you’ve only had your home on the market for a few days and you get an offer you think you want to take, ask your agent to call other agents who have expressed interest in showing your home. Have your agent let them know that you have an offer in hand and ask them if any of them are interested in submitting an offer. Give them a firm deadline for receiving offers, but don’t prematurely accept one.
5. Getting emotionally involved in the transaction. This is a big challenge. You’ve lived in your home, created memories there, invested time and money in your property, etc. But once you move forward with the decision to sell your home, it becomes a commodity. You may think your home is “worth” a specific amount, but ultimately, it doesn’t matter what you want. Not everyone will appreciate your home like you did, but now it’s time to move on. Put your emotions aside and move forward with the sale as a business transaction.

@Cobblestoneinfo

Make Dollars Out of Scents

Spruce up the Aroma of Your Home to Sell

When homebuyers walk into a home for sale all five senses are actively scanning the environment. The sense of smell can send a strong message to the brain while the brain is busy formulating a first impression.

Regardless of your home’s appearance, an unpleasant odor can turn buyers away. At the same time, pleasant aromas can invoke feelings of comfort, relaxation, happiness and peace.

Carefully selected scents can actually help you get more dollars out of your home when combined with other staging methods. We have experience in creating just the right setting to present your home for sale. Feel free to contact us for a no obligation consultation and tips to make your property even more desirable.

1. Dirt Stinks.

Let’s face it, no matter what kind of candle, spray or air freshener you use the fine scents will not cover up the smell of an unclean environment. The first smell to create is a clean smell. Don’t use overpowering industrial cleaners that leave strong scents behind. Even those scents are sometimes undesirable.

•  Wash walls, baseboards, and floors
•  Leave no dirty dishes in the sink or on counters
•  Clean the garbage disposal regularly
•  Keep trash cans empty
•  Clean toilets regularly
•  Eliminate all signs of mildew and mold
•  Dust often
•  Avoid smoking indoors
•  Never leave dirty diapers in the house
•  Keep laundry clean and put away
•  Keep pets outside or keep litter box clean and fresh for indoor cats

2. People are Sensitive to Smells

Once your house is smelling clean and fresh, be very careful about the scents and methods of distributing those scents. Many people have allergies to spray air fresheners. Other people simply feel overpowered by the scent of a strong burning candle. Still others may associate certain smells with negative memories or experiences in their lives. Strong, overpowering smells may be offensive and may make buyers suspicious you are trying to cover up a bad smell.

3. Natural, Subtle Scents are Best

Play it safe by creating an atmosphere of natural scents and smells.

Place fresh, fragrant flowers in strategic locations throughout the home for a subtle, natural scent. Flowers from your own garden are wonderful! If not available, fresh flowers from the grocer will do just fine.

Consider whipping up a batch of fresh chocolate chip cookies as your guests arrive to create a homey feeling. Maybe you could choose the day of their visit to put a nice stew in the crock pot.

Creating just the right ambiance in your home when staging it to sell could net thousands more in the final sales price. Remember, don’t over do it. Natural is best.

 Cobblestone Realty, LLC