As spring approaches, there is good reason to think ahead and start planning for the future. This is the time of year when many people consider listing their homes for sale, making it more convenient to move during the summer months. You probably know there’s more to selling a home than putting up a For […]
When Choosing a Fixer-Upper Makes Cents
Some renovations can significantly increase the market value of a home. Others can cost more than you’ll ever get back. So, when choosing a “fixer-upper”, look carefully at the work that needs to be done. General painting, and bathroom or kitchen renovations typically increase the resale value of a house. “Invisible” repairs such as plumbing, […]
Get Your Home-Hunting Ducks in a Row
Getting Schooled on Local Schools
If you have kids, the local school will be a big part of your new home buying decision. That’s why it’s important to get a school’s “vital statistics”, such as: Safety record Curriculum Accommodation for special needs Awards Average class sizes Extracurricular activities. (sports, arts, crafts, technology, etc.) Scores on standardized achievement tests Daily schedules […]
Will Your Furniture Fit?
When shopping for a new house or condo, most buyers consider such factors as neighborhood, proximity to schools, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, size of the kitchen, and more. These are, of course, all important considerations. But there’s one question that few buyers ask – until it’s too late. “Will our furniture fit?” This may […]
Should You Accept a “Conditional Offer”?
There’s no doubt about it. The best kind of offer is a “firm” offer. The buyer offers you a certain price for your property and, should you accept it, the deal is done. Congratulations. You’ve just sold your house! But more often than not, an offer is “conditional”. That means the buyer is offering you […]
Surviving a Bidding War
Traffic Matters
Like taxes, traffic is a fact of life. (Particularly if you live anywhere near the HRBT). So, when you’re shopping for a new home, consider how the road situation will affect your commute to work, access to shopping and attractions, and the ability to conveniently reach places you need to go. After all, it’s difficult […]
5 Home Renovations that Pay
There are two main reasons why homeowners invest in a home renovation or major redecorating project: They want to enjoy the results of the new kitchen, bathroom, flooring or other improvement they’ve made; and/or, they hope that the money they spend will come back to them – at least in part – when they sell […]
How to Handle Offers
You obviously have experience purchasing a home. But you may not have had an opportunity, yet, to be on the other side of the transaction: putting your house on the market and entertaining offers. Offers, in particular, can intimidate first time sellers (even those who have bought and sold a few times). After all, the […]