Some simple ideas to update the look of your kitchen for yourself or for potential home buyers:
*Reface cabinets and replace hardware
*Install energy-efficient wall oven and cooktop
*Replace laminate coutertops
*Install new sink and faucet
*Replace flooring
*Repaint trim
Many of us don’t think much about the light bulbs in our home until they burn out and we’re left in the dark. No one wants to be left in the dark. With the changing times and the old fashioned filiment light bulbs going by the wayside, it’s a good idea to think about these new squiggly CFL bulbs that are coming in to light our homes. Many people aren’t aware that these bulbs contain Mercury, an extremely toxic element. Mercury can damage the brain, kidney and lungs and impair the normal development of a fetus. As with many household items, this does not mean it is not a good thing to have in our homes. It simply means we have to take a little precaution when handling the exposed element. Four things to remember when a CFL bulb breaks:
1. Have people and pets leave the room right away.
2. Ventilate the room for 15 minutes before cleaning up.
3. Thoroughly collect the broken glass and visible powder using protective gloves.
4. Place all broken cleaned up materials in a sealed container or two plastic bags before discarding.
Keep your home healthy, don’t be left in the dark!
Shari Webb
“Your Key to Care”
Now that we’re well into the start of the new year lets take a look at the goals we’ve set for ourselves and the best way to manage them. Goals can seem overwhelming and impractical when we first make them if we don’t have a plan of action. First write down your ultimate long term goal. Then break it into smaller achievements. This way you will feel accomplished all along the way.
Second, visualize your success. Think about the price of completing each step and the cost of not completing each step. Understanding why you want to complete your goal will help give you the drive to complete each little mini goal for yourself.
Last, don’t fear failure. Some people set the bar to high for themselves and others set it too low. Your goal has to be challenging enough for you to continue to propel you forward. The additional effort to achieve more challenging goals will be far more fulfilling to than that of the easy goals.
Another tip I find helpful is telling those around me about my goals. This way I am being held accountable by others, not just by myself and my sticky notes. So, set those goals and make them happen this year!
Call me to help you achieve your real estate goals in 2012!
Want to make your bathroom or kitchen look like you spent a lot of money? Then think about upgrading the faucets, it’s a great quick face lift for your kitchen or bath. A new faucet can set a more contemporary aesthetic and pique interest from home buyers. If your current faucets are leaking or worn, then a new faucet is an absolute necessity. Especially if you are trying to get the maximum dollar amount for your home. Save money buy buying the faucets at a home improvement store and having a plumber install them.
A great way to make a good impression on buyers is to patch drywall dents and holes. Leaving these areas exposed tells a buyer that a home has not been well cared for and the integrity of the home is in question. Patching dings and dents is crucial to a fast sell, especially if you plan on painting. Make your walls flawless before showing the house. It is an easy fix, with a myriad of products at your disposal. Simply, put the filler in the hole, then smooth it over and let dry. Be sure to completely cover the patch with fresh paint over the entire wall.
If closing the sale of your home is a priority, then Organize and De-Personalize.
Clear your house of clutter with new storage or shelving. If you have lots of clutter think about moving it to a storage shed as a temporary solution. Better yet, set up an appointment with a local charity to come and pick it up. Too much clutter even if it is put away on shelves makes it seem like a buyer’s belongings will not fit in the new space.
At the same time, help buyers envision the house as their own by removing personal items like knick-knacks and photographs. The character of the home should shine through. Putting away your family photographs will help a new buyer see them home as their own.
I hope you have a great 2012. January is a popular time to consider making life style changes. Here are a few simple ideas to get you started. All goals can be accomplished in small measured steps.
For a wealthier year, try sticking to a budget, paying down debt, and start saving. A budget will help identify where you can decrease excess spending. Use those savings by dividing it into a part to save and a part to eliminate debt.
For a healthier year, try to eat right and exercise. Remember to start small, something manageable to help you stick with it. A healthy diet may mean trying a new fruit or vegetable everyday. Increase exercise by using the stairs at work or choosing the parking spot furthest from the store.
Start the New Year with a clean garage. It is an overlooked room that demonstrates to buyers how well a home has been kept. A garage is a great place for leaves, dirt, and insects. Start with a good sweep – floors and don’t forget to remove cobwebs from ceilings. For grease stains, try soaking them up with sawdust or cat litter for a day. Next, let detergent sit on the stain for an hour or so, and then scrub the remaining grease away. Go one step further and reseal concrete. Garage door broken or lights out – fix them – you will be glad you did.
First impressions matter. A little cleaning and preparation can make a big difference, in terms of resale value. Maximize your investment by knowing what buyers want.
Repaint rooms – probably one of the least expensive ways to make an impact. Many buyers are put off by strong colors. Rethink your painting scheme in eye pleasing neutrals. Use neutrals throughout the home to give a sense of continuity. Think about the kitchen. It is a place where a new buyer will envision themselves the most. Therefore, make it seem clean and fresh with new paint.
I’ll be sharing selling tips all month, be sure to check back. Or, Call me today!