Jeff Cook Real Estate BlogRecently posted or modified blog posts by tag - Curb Appealhttps://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/Copyright JeffCookRealEstate.com2024-02-02T14:13:43-07:00tag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:18632Preparing For Your Summer Garden<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1451/image/Untitled_design-3.jpg" width="940" height="788" />
Soon the days will lengthen, the temperatures will rise, and it’ll be time to turn our attention to the outdoors and embrace the joys of summer gardening. Preparing for a successful garden requires thoughtful planning, a bit of elbow grease, and a touch of creativity. In this guide, we'll walk you through essential steps to ensure your summer garden flourishes with vibrant blooms, lush foliage, and a bounty of fresh produce.
Assess Your Space and Sunlight:
Before diving into the world of summer gardening, take a close look at your outdoor space. Evaluate the amount of sunlight different areas receive throughout the day. Most plants thrive in full sunlight, so choose spots that receive at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight. Consider the layout of your garden beds, containers, or designated planting areas.
Choose Your Plants Wisely:
Selecting the right plants for your summer garden is crucial for success. Consider the climate and hardiness zone in your region, as well as the specific needs of each plant. Whether you're interested in vibrant flowers, aromatic herbs, or homegrown vegetables, make sure your chosen plants are well-suited to the conditions in your garden.
Prepare the Soil:
Healthy soil is the foundation of a thriving garden. Test the pH of your soil and amend it accordingly, adding organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure. This enhances soil structure, improves drainage, and provides essential nutrients for your plants. Prepare the soil in advance to give it time to settle before planting.
Plan Your Garden Layout:
Sketch a rough layout of your garden, considering the height and spread of each plant. Grouping plants with similar water and sunlight needs together makes maintenance more manageable. Think about creating focal points, borders, or even incorporating container gardens to add visual interest to your outdoor space.
Invest in Quality Tools:
Equip yourself with the right gardening tools to make the process more enjoyable and efficient. Essential tools include a sturdy shovel, rake, pruners, and watering cans or hoses. Invest in high-quality tools that will withstand the rigors of gardening and make your tasks more enjoyable.
Implement Watering Strategies:
Proper watering is key to a thriving summer garden. Develop a watering schedule based on the specific needs of your plants. Consider using mulch to retain soil moisture, reduce weed growth, and regulate soil temperature. Drip irrigation or soaker hoses can be efficient alternatives to traditional watering methods.
Consider Companion Planting:
Boost the health and productivity of your garden by practicing companion planting. Certain plants have natural synergies that benefit each other, such as deterring pests or enhancing nutrient uptake. Research companion planting strategies to maximize the harmony in your garden beds.
Preparing for your summer garden is a delightful journey that promises the reward of a vibrant, flourishing outdoor space. By carefully assessing your garden space, selecting the right plants, preparing the soil, planning the layout, investing in quality tools, implementing watering strategies, and exploring companion planting, you're setting the stage for a summer garden that will bring joy and beauty to your outdoor haven. Happy gardening!2024-01-10T14:08:00-07:002024-02-02T14:13:43-07:00Patricia Utseytag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:14049What Buying “As Is” Really MeansIf you’re looking to <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/buyers/">buy real estate in South Carolina</a>, congratulations! The Palmetto State has some of the most beautiful homes and properties available anywhere in the United States, and there is nothing like living the Low Country lifestyle. But the excitement of buying a home can be overshadowed by confusion over the many avenues to making a real estate purchase.
Perhaps one of the most confusing is buying real estate in South Carolina “As-Is.” Let’s explore this option more thoroughly to see if it could work for you.
Buying Real Estate in South Carolina “As-Is”
A home for sale listed as <a href="https://www.rocketmortgage.com/learn/sold-as-is">an “As-Is” property</a> simply means the sellers do not want to invest any time or money into making repairs to the home before closing. That means that, as a buyer, you must agree to purchase the property “As-Is” — in its present condition. What you see (or can’t see) is what you get.
Of course, “As-Is” sellers must meet minimum disclosure requirements that are required by South Carolina law; more about that later. But in a general sense, you agree to buy the home without any changes whatsoever.
Now, while this may sound like buying “a pig in a poke,” as the old southern saying goes, there can be lots of reasons for this type of sale. Not every “As-Is” home listing is damaged or aged beyond repair. Sellers can choose this option for any number of reasons, including:
No money available to pay for repairs
Save money on making repairs
Need to sell fast because of a pending move
Wanting a cash offer to avoid lengthy mortgage process, so property is listed lower
Why Should I Buy Real Estate in South Carolina “As-Is?”
Some home buyers may find that purchasing an existing home “As-Is” is a good option. The wise home buyer can realize some significant benefits.
Lower Purchase Cost
In many cases, the <a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/real-estate/selling-a-house-as-is">seller’s desire to list “As-Is”</a> for whatever reason means you get a prime property at a much lower price than is the norm. Depending on what the home needs, you could purchase it substantially below the average price. Not only does this save you money, it can make for lower interest rates and mortgage payments. It could also allow you to borrow up to the full value amount of the home and use the extra money for repairs, renovations, or other needs.
Ideal for Property Flipping
Experienced contractors or house flippers that subcontract renovations can find “As-Is” real estate in South Carolina to be profitable projects. Ideal properties purchased with few serious problems are quite affordable to repair and flip for quick investment and return. Some that are priced low to sell fast can be acquired cheaply, meaning quite a large return on investment after simple, inexpensive repairs.
Make Repairs Your Way
There are some buyers who would prefer to be at the helm of any repairs, changes or renovations to a home they plan to occupy, and so buying a desirable property “As-Is” puts them in charge of any work. This allows you to make repairs your way, using contractors you choose and trust, while personally overseeing any and all work.
Faster Closing in Some Cases
Some “As-Is” properties are priced low with any repairs or changes offered in order to make them sell fast. The option for a <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/cash-offers-are-tempting-but-proceed-with-caution/">quick cash offer</a> is more feasible for the lower price. If a faster closing process is appealing to you as well, you could buy the “As-Is” property for cash and close the deal considerably faster than the normal process involving a lender.
Tips for Buying a Home “As -Is”
If you believe buying a home in South Carolina “As-Is” is a desirable option, follow these tips to do your “<a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/buying-a-home-what-is-due-diligence-when-buying-a-home/">due diligence</a>” in every aspect.
Pay Attention to the Law
<a href="https://www.scstatehouse.gov/code/t27c050.php">South Carolina law</a> requires sellers to provide prospective buyers with a written disclosure statement that informs you of any known problems with the home or property. This statement can be delivered in person or electronically.
The South Carolina Real Estate Commission has a free <a href="https://llr.sc.gov/re/resources.aspx">sample disclosure form</a> you can download that lists all the areas that must be included in the report. The seller must answer "Yes," "No" or "No Representation" to each question.
The disclosure must include information about:
The water supply and sanitary sewage disposal system
The roof, chimneys, floors, foundation, basement and other structural components
The plumbing, electrical, heating, cooling and other mechanical systems
Any past or present, unrepaired infestations of wood-destroying insects or organisms
Applicable zoning laws, restrictive covenants, building codes and other land-use restrictions affecting the property, encroachments from or to adjacent property, and notices from a governmental agency affecting the property
The presence of lead-based paint, asbestos, radon gas, methane gas, an underground storage tank, hazardous material or toxic material, buried or covered, and any other environmental contamination
The existence of a rental, rental management, vacation rental or other lease contract in place on the property at the time of closing, and, if known, any outstanding charges owed by the tenant for gas, electric, water, sewerage or garbage services provided to the property the tenant leases
The existence of a meter conservation charge that applies to electricity or natural gas service to the property
If the property is subject to governance by a homeowners association
Pay Attention to the Home Inspection Report
In addition to the disclosure statement, you should carefully examine the report from a licensed and experienced home inspector. His or her report will provide a comprehensive view of the general condition of the home and its major systems. It may also include recommendations for further specific inspections if the home inspector detects more extensive deficiencies or problems. They may recommend:
A structural inspection
An HVAC inspection
An electrical inspection
A plumbing inspection
A pest inspection
A mold inspection
Any problems discovered by one or more of these specialists could mean substantial repair costs you may wish to avoid.
The <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/waiving-home-inspections-the-benefits-and-pitfalls/">home inspection report</a> will also detail recommendations for other, smaller repairs or deficiencies that you want to consider. Use this list for the next step.
Pay Attention to Repair Cost Estimates from Local Professionals
Armed with the home inspection report, sellers disclosure document, and any other inspection reports, obtain cost estimates from leading local repair and renovation professionals. We recommend getting at least five estimates for each repair for comparison. Depending on the time of year, some top contractors may be overly busy and unable to take the job, so you need some backup choices, too.
Use these price estimates to calculate a close approximate cost for any and all repairs, renovations or other changes you wish to make. Add this total to the sellers’ asking price to get a grand total for what you may be expected to spend. The “As-Is” property could end up being a real steal — or it could prove to be a real money pit. Only you know what you can/want to spend for real estate in South Carolina, and how much time you wish to invest. Be wise and weigh all the factors involved before committing to a contract.
Jeff Cook Real Estate can help when you’re looking to buy a home in South Carolina. Contact us today at 855-HEY-JEFF <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/">or online</a> and speak with one of our talented and knowledgeable real estate professionals.
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2022-07-13T06:11:00-07:002022-07-12T13:19:17-07:00Lee Willeytag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:13154Budget-Friendly Kitchen Upgrades to Help Sell Your House<a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/sellers/">Prepping your home for sale</a> can be a headache. You want to make it more attractive to potential buyers, but you don’t want to break the bank. Plus, upgrading your home pre-sale is meant to make it more attractive, and therefore worth a higher asking price. If you spend too much on upgrades, you lose a substantial amount of that extra money.
Any real estate professional will tell you — kitchens sell homes. It is the single room with the highest potential for making or breaking a sale, and for getting you the price you want. But what should you do to enhance your kitchen? Here are some budget-friendly kitchen upgrades you should consider when <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/sellers/preparing-your-home-for-the-market/">prepping your home for sale</a>.
Scrub and Organize Your Kitchen
If your budget is tight, you can still make your kitchen as impressive as possible by simply giving it a good scrub down from ceiling to floor. Cooking and use causes grease and dirt to build up on every surface, leaving a dingy appearance. Scrub walls, cabinets, appliances, and floors to remove dirt and grime and leave behind a clean gleam and odor.
Clutter is a killer when selling a home, and the kitchen is often a room that collects more than its fair share. A quick trip to the local dollar store for some inexpensive bins and organizers for your drawers and cabinets can make cluttered spaces neat and attractive. Choose colors that match your existing kitchen color, or neutral colors that blend in.
Add New Cabinet and Drawer Hardware
New cabinetry can cost a fortune, but new drawer and cabinet hardware is an affordable kitchen upgrade that makes older cabinets look new. Modern designs abound and can usually be found at a local big box home store in a variety of styles and colors. Ask a store professional or other cabinet expert about the latest styles and their recommendations.
Add an Inexpensive Backsplash
A decorative and functional backsplash above counters and below upper cabinets adds a “wow” factor to any kitchen. Many backsplash options can be found, including stick-on varieties that look like tile, stone, or other materials. These protect your walls from moisture and other substances while adding a nice dash of color or style to your kitchen.
Add a New Faucet
An older, outdated, or leaking faucet is a quick, affordable upgrade to improve the appearance and function of your kitchen. Again, many models and styles are usually available at a local big box home store, and a store representative can usually answer your questions. Choose a model that is affordable, but elegant, easy to use, and that blends in with your sink and other appliances.
Update Lighting
Updating your kitchen lighting can be more affordable than you may think. Older light fixtures stand out and make potential buyers look closer for other dated parts of your kitchen. Replace overhead lighting with something clear and understated, and consider adding under-cabinet lighting. This can not only be impressive and make work spaces brighter, many varieties are available that can be easily installed and plugged into a nearby outlet, saving you the expense of hiring an electrician.
More Help with Prepping Your Home for Sale
There are many other affordable options to consider when prepping your home for sale. Jeff Cook Real Estate can offer many helpful suggestions for your kitchen, other rooms, and outdoor spaces. Contact us today for more help with <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/sellers/">selling your home in the Carolinas</a>. We can provide experienced guidance and advice to help sell your home faster for the best price.
2022-03-30T17:29:00-07:002023-04-28T11:59:50-07:00Lee Willeytag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:10839These Landscaping Tips Can Increase Your Home Value<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1451/image/Outdoor_Patio.png" width="2717" height="1811" alt="Outdoor Patio" />
When buying or selling a property, landscaping can be a competitive advantage in the market, making houses attract even more attention from homebuyers.
We have collected some landscaping features to increase your <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/increase-the-value-of-your-property-with-these-design-ideas/">home value</a>.
1. Put your land in the spotlight with a lighting system.
A tailor-made and well-designed lighting system can offer a return on investment of up to 50%. You can use several techniques, such as illuminating a passage or casting a soft light on hedges and plants.
Take advantage of upward lighting, which involves projecting the light on the walls to create light and shadow play. Well-positioned lighting creates points of interest on your land and your home, improving their visual impact.
Low lighting can highlight structural details and create a feeling of coziness and warmth.
2. Planting trees.
Trees contribute to more than just aesthetics, they can increase a property's value. Additionally, when trees are properly positioned, they increase in value as they grow and mature.
Another plus: planting trees that provide just enough shade on your home will help reduce your air conditioning bill in the summer.
3. Add a patio and enjoy a return on investment.
Patios are a great way to extend your living space outdoors while adding value to your home. The patio also gives you a view of other <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/best-plants-for-your-garden-in-south-carolina/">features of your yard</a>, in addition to being the ideal place to eat and sunbathe.
Have you opted for the patio? Make sure to light it up enough and take every precaution to protect your patio from premature wear and tear.
4. Add a complete terrace.
A beautiful terrace allows you to take advantage of the extra space for pleasant outdoor activities such as family reunions, parties, and dining. In addition to allowing you to spend quality time with your friends and relatives, it increases the resale value of your home thanks to its <a href="https://www.charlestoncitypaper.com/story/seven-ways-to-boost-your-homes-curb-appeal?oid=32088848">visual appeal</a>.
When buyers are asked to name the top 10 attractions they look for when buying a home, many mention terraces. A complete terrace can generate a return on investment of up to 67% when selling a home.
5. An outdoor kitchen.
How about being able to prepare, cook and eat your meals outdoors? Making this luxury accessible is one of the distinctive advantages of outdoor kitchens.
These can include a BBQ, counters and even kitchen islands, a wet bar, and some comfortable furniture to relax in when the day or party continues outside in the summer.
Materials that are weather-resistant wood or stainless steel are often preferred. An outdoor kitchen will significantly increase the value of your property by a large margin.
In conclusion,
Properties with spaces dedicated to landscaping draw the attention of buyers that value a private space and are looking for a better quality of life. Landscaping is important since it increases the home value, but <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/">Jeff Cook Real Estate</a> can get you more money for your home when you are ready to sell.2021-06-07T08:00:00-07:002021-06-07T05:34:12-07:00Lee Willeytag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:10413Best Plants for Your Garden in South Carolina<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1451/image/SC_Plants.png" width="2880" height="1920" />
<a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/5-backyard-gardening-tips-for-spring/">Gardening</a> in South Carolina can be achieved with proper care. Most home gardeners grow vegetables for their ideal flavors and nutritional value as hobbies and save some cash considering the increased food prices. The amount of home gardeners is constantly increasing in this state.
However, your garden's success depends on multiple factors, but failure could result from negligence and ignorance of the existing crop developments. So, what are the best <a href="http://www.scwf.org/native-plant-list" target="_blank">flowers and plants</a> for your garden in South Carolina? Here they are;
Marigold
These conspicuous and magnificent flowers are hard to miss considering their attractive gold color. They usually thrive during the summer, which is why they are perfect for your garden. They require minimal groundskeeping work, and they do well in the outdoors, where they can enjoy sunshine throughout the day. Additionally, they prefer fertile and well-drained soils and are impressively resistant to pests.
Phlox
Another plant that thrives during the summer is Phlox. They have large and beautiful flowers which grow 3 to 4 feet tall stems. They are easy to take care of since they need less care than other summer plants. They are ideal for Summer in South Carolina and are normally pest-free.
Hollyhocks
These beautiful flowers will for sure make your home garden look magnificent. They are among the few plants that were brought to America by colonists. Since these plants are tall, they will be perfect if planted at your garden's border. They require to be planted in fertile and moist soil to grow well. They prefer being in sunny weather and produce beautiful flowers.
If you prefer planting foliage plants, here are some that will thrive in South Carolina:
Spinach, Cabbage, Carrots, Kales, Peas, Arugula, Swiss chard, Lettuce, Green onions
Season planting
The time you can plant your vegetables outdoor is typically determined by the plant's season and species. While some plants like spinach and tomatoes can be grown indoors, beans and corns are better off planted outside. Vegetables can be classified into two categories depending on their temperature needs; warm to cool-season plants.
Cool-season crops
These crops were initially from high-temperature regions, and they have a growth timeframe which is during the cooler times of the year. Cool-season plants do not thrive during summer. While these plants grow perfectly after early fall, you should plant them earlier for them to mature before the weather becomes cold.
Warm-season plants
Warm-season crops were initially planted in tropical and subtropical areas, and they need warm weather for them to grow correctly. They are killed by extremely cold weather, and they are not supposed to be planted outside in spring without adequate protection or until the cold weather is over.
Typically, they are planted during the <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/save-money-on-your-summer-energy-bill-with-these-hvac-tips-and-tricks/">summer</a>, which should be done early enough to mature before fall.
Conclusion
Growing foliage plants and flowers is a fulfilling way to always have fresh produce and make your garden look beautiful at the same time. Your triumph as a home gardener in South Carolina begins with selecting the best crops depending on the season.
2021-04-05T11:16:00-07:002021-05-10T11:58:04-07:00Lee Willeytag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:7023How Families With Children Can Prep Their Home for Sale Without StressingGuest Blogger: Kristin Louis
Prepping a home for sale, whether you live in Charleston or another city, can be a serious undertaking. You know you need to get and keep your home in top shape in order to help it sell faster. However, if you’re a busy parent, achieving this is no easy feat. That’s why you need some helpful tips and tricks to make preparing your home and selling it easier to manage in an already busy family routine. Be sure to keep the following in mind:
Break Down Decluttering into Manageable Tasks
When kids are in the house, staying organized can feel stressful. If you’re looking around your home and feeling overwhelmed by clutter, know that you can go <a href="https://www.thespruce.com/decluttering-your-entire-home-2648002">room by room</a> to make sorting and getting rid of items much easier on your schedule. Tackle one or two areas each weekend, using designated bins to divide household belongings into purposeful piles. You’re likely to end up with things you need to toss, things you want to keep, and things you’re not quite sure what to do with yet. For the latter, you can think about renting a storage unit so your home won’t be cluttered for showings and open houses, but it’s really best to be as decisive as possible. Using a <a href="https://www.zillow.com/blog/declutter-for-intentional-home-210492/">clutter scale</a> can help you make better decisions when clearing your home. You can also follow these <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/top-5-organization-tips-for-your-home/">organizational tips</a> to keep your home tidy.
Hire Professional Cleaners to Save More Time
If you want to sell your home, it needs a deep cleaning. That deep cleaning can take time and effort, both of which can be priceless commodities to busy parents. So instead of tackling it on your own, consider hiring a professional to do a <a href="https://www.homeadvisor.com/near-me/housekeeping-maid-services/">thorough house cleaning</a>. Having a weekly or bi-weekly cleaning session can be invaluable when you are trying to sell your home, and also trying to juggle your family’s schedule.
Devote Time and Effort to Improve Landscaping
Cleaning and decluttering the inside of your home before listing is always important, but you also need to <a href="https://www.nar.realtor/blogs/styled-staged-sold/the-5-biggest-yard-and-patio-staging-mistakes">stage the outside</a> to attract more potential buyers. So take some time to clean up your yard, trimming down any overgrown plants, trees or bushes, and also repairing or refreshing swing sets that may already be in your backyard. If you have toys or other smaller items laying about, be sure to pick those up before you start showing your home. You can also invest in some <a href="https://www.realtor.com/advice/home-improvement/8-landscaping-tricks-that-can-save-you-money/">landscaping upgrades</a>, like fresh mulch and gravel, which will get your home off the market faster without costing you a fortune. Improving the landscaping is a good way to make a good first impression on homebuyers and increase your home’s <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesrealestatecouncil/2018/04/11/curb-appeal-counts-three-steps-to-increasing-interest-in-a-property-for-sale/#213c4c263d8b">curb appeal</a>.
Have a Family Plan for Any Last-Minute Showings
With a spotless home and improved curb appeal, you’re sure to have more people dropping in to take a look at your home. While that can be good for sales, sometimes showings can come up at a moment’s notice. That can be stressful for families with children, but you can relieve that stress by being prepared with some family-friendly activities. Here <a href="https://www.charlestoncvb.com/explore/family/">in Charleston</a>, there are so many activities and adventures for families to explore. Take your kids out to visit some historical areas or enjoy some outdoor time, so you won’t be stressed or bored when you need to get out of your home quickly. You can also implement these quick cleaning and organizational tasks to <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/how-to-show-your-home-last-minute/">get your home show-ready for those last-minute showings</a>.
Listing your family’s home doesn’t have to leave you stressed about preparing it to sell. You just need to plan ahead, if possible, to check those to-dos off your list and hire help when needed. Follow these easy steps to sell your home without added stress for your family.
2019-11-11T07:01:00-07:002021-01-22T12:42:01-07:00Thomas "Jeff" Cooktag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:5947Increase the Value of Your Property with These Design IdeasAre you planning to <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/scrambling-to-sell/">sell your home</a>? If that’s the case, you probably want to get your money’s worth or even more. This is a perfectly logical idea that’s more than possible – if you take the time to do a little design makeover. Certain features and design elements may seem costly upfront, but they can pay off considerably once you put your home on the market. In case you’re interested in boosting your home’s resale value, consider the following projects.
Update Your Kitchen
Kitchens are one of the most important rooms in one’s home, especially when it comes to selling it. After all, no one wants to deal with small or outdated kitchens when they move in. In that respect, repainting or replacing the cabinets and other elements as well as creating some functionality in the layout is the best way to go. It’s essential that you don’t go overboard, though. Keep in mind that your kitchen should match the overall look and feel of the rest of the home. An open floor plan or a kitchen island are proper investments but turning this area into a huge restaurant kitchen is not.
Go with Energy-Efficient Appliances
If you want a big and proper change for your kitchen, focus your attention and investment to energy-efficient appliances. Of course, there are appliances outside the kitchen and these should be considered, too, but most of the appliances are located in the kitchen and can waste a lot of energy if not star-rated. In that respect, you should replace your old appliances with new ones that actually contribute to the sustainability of the home.
Remodel Your Bathroom
Every bit as important as your kitchen, the bathroom should be next on your redesign list. In general, <a data-cke-saved-href="https://betterthathome.com/spa-like-bathroom-designs/" href="https://betterthathome.com/spa-like-bathroom-designs/" rel="nofollow">spa-like design</a> is very popular at the moment, with no tub showers and free-standing tubs. However, if you don’t have the room or the means for such a redesign project, you can make a difference with other projects. Replace broken tiles with new ones. Repaint your bathroom as well. Light blue and green shades, white, grey as well as some earthy tones are very effective for a clean bathroom look. Replace the toilet and the shower battery. Also, add storage room. If there’s no space for cabinets, consider installing floating shelves.
Reinvent a Room
In order to differentiate your property from the rest on the market, you need something interesting. Since it’s important to provide all the essentials in a home and remain relatively neutral, the best way to spruce up your place is to reinvent a room. After all, adding a new room is not the best investment to turn to. Instead, unused space such as basement, attic or any extra room in your home can be transformed into something new and more attractive to potential buyers. If your property is on the smaller side, this can be an extra bedroom. But it can also be a library, an entertainment room, kids’ playground, etc.
Paint and Decorations
It’s true that you should stick to the neutral look when selling your property. In that respect, it would be best to opt for neutral paint when giving a fresh coat to your interior. However, it always fares better when there’s something more unique to the whole environment without the actual clutter or vibrant shades. In that respect, don’t hesitate to check your options when it comes to decorative moldings, skirtings, mantelpieces, shelf fronts, etc.
Add a Deck
Interior is very important for increasing your home’s value but don’t forget the exterior either. Specifically, the yard area where the future owners will be able to rest and enjoy themselves. A proper deck area can boost the resale value of the property considerably and for a good reason. After all, what’s the point of having a yard, your own natural oasis, if you can’t enjoy it properly? If you’re handy and have some skills in this department, you can earn plenty by adding a deck on your own. Still, even if you hire a professional to build a deck for you, you can expect a great return of investment.
Replace Doors and Windows
This isn’t always necessary, but don’t disregard this particular project just yet. Even though your doors and windows may be perfectly fine, consider whether new, fancier alternatives could drastically change the overall look of your home. The truth is this often is the case. Better quality wood and more intricate design of the doors feel luxurious. Furthermore, <a data-cke-saved-href="https://maghulldoubleglazing.com/10-benefits-of-double-glazing/" href="https://maghulldoubleglazing.com/10-benefits-of-double-glazing/" rel="nofollow">double-glazed windows</a> are a must if you don’t already have these installed. These improve the insulation properties of your home thus upping its price.
Keep in mind that design practices meant for boosting your home’s resale value should never be personal – or at least not too personal. You never know what the potential buyer might like, which is precisely why you should stick to the timeless trends like <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/mid-century-modern-dcor-ideas-for-your-home/">Mid-Century Modern Design</a>. 2019-09-16T11:28:00-07:002021-01-22T10:56:57-07:00Cory Towlertag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:6011Decor Styles That are Proven to Attract Buyers to Your House for SaleStaging a home has a lot to do with how fast it will sell. It also affects the price of your property, and decorating your home strategically is a proven way to get the potential buyers to seal the deal much quicker. Home staging is very much like designing a stage for play – everything is well-thought-out, carefully placed, and strategically arranged. The question is – how do you set the stage for a fast and lucrative sale? Let’s take a look at the list of decor styles that will get your property picture-perfect and help you get the best price.
Make a great first impression – start with the exterior
With first impressions becoming make or break, it’s getting increasingly difficult for homeowners looking to sell their homes to get their buyers’ attention. By simply taking a glance at the house’s exterior, buyers can predict what the interior is like. Therefore, maintaining an appealing exterior is just as important as keeping the inside of your house spotless. Landscaping plays an important role in buyers’ perception of your home, so be sure to tackle minor upgrades in the area surrounding your home, and consider making smaller updates for a well maintained, cared-for appearance. Swipe your front porch, prune your shrubs, and take some time to dress up your lawn to make the outdoor space appear spick-and-span. Get a new mailbox, paint the old, dreary-looking fence, and as the perfect finishing touch – paint your front door with a playful color to make it pop.
Play it safe – stick with a neutral color scheme
A little paint goes a long way, and even by simply<a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/tips-on-painting-your-homes-interior/"> treating your walls to a fresh coat of paint</a> you can easily change the look of your interiors and create the perfect backdrop for your furnishings. However, selling your home isn’t exactly the time to go crazy with the paint and use all the colors of the rainbow. According to professional home stylists, it’s best to keep your color palette simple and neutral. Whites, off-whites, and grays are the perfect shades for homeowners looking to appeal to a wide range of buyers. The reason for this lies in the fact that buyers are generally drawn to spaces they can visualize themselves living in and your job is to create a story for your home by using hues that will tie the place together, uniting all the rooms into a cohesive whole.
Picture-perfect – use effective photographs on your online listing
Presenting your property in all its glory should be high on your priority list. However, making your home look impressive on your online listing isn’t so easy. We live in the digital age, the time when all it takes is some short scanning to decide whether we’re interested, and the first few seconds’ viewing can mean deal or no deal. Think about how you can create a digital representation of your property that will attract the buyers. Roll out <a data-cke-saved-href="https://missamara.com.au/" href="https://missamara.com.au/" rel="nofollow">cozy floor rugs</a> to conjure up an image of fun family nights, and include fluffy pillows for an added feeling of comfort. Hang interesting artwork to enhance the visual interest of your living space and add plants to make it feel lively. It’s all about making your living space look charming and inviting, and sometimes that’s all it takes to make the buyers want to see more.
Kitchen and bathroom – the two rooms that deserve more attention
Not all rooms are created equal, and while there are spaces around the house to invest in, you must be wise with where you choose to save, and what you decide to splurge on. Unsurprisingly, kitchens and bathrooms are rooms that are given special attention when preparing a home for sale. But why, you might ask, should we focus on improving these two rooms in particular? It’s simple – they’re two home upgrades that return the most at resale. However, improving these two rooms doesn’t always require spending a fortune and going as far as a full kitchen and bathroom renovations. Simply <a data-cke-saved-href="https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/decorating-ideas/tips/a26156/cheap-kitchen-updates/" href="https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/decorating-ideas/tips/a26156/cheap-kitchen-updates/" rel="nofollow">bring them up to scratch</a>, polish to perfection and you’re good to go. Scruffy kitchen cabinetry? Respray it and replace old handles. Dated bathroom fixtures? Swap your old showerhead for a rain shower. Sometimes, even the simplest of changes can make all the difference.
Establish an emotional connection – add homely details
Before you put your home up for sale, there is one more thing left to do, and that is – make it feel like home. Although putting your home on the market means depersonalizing your living space, going overboard can make your house feel cold and sterile. To avoid the clinical look, be sure to add a vase of fresh flowers here and there and add a couple of throw pillows and a blanket to make it look livable. Add a couple of white, fluffy towels in the bathroom, and set the table with a centerpiece to give an impression of warmth and create a space that looks cozy and welcoming.
<br />Ensuring a quick and profitable sale is no easy task, but with a few interior design styling tricks up your sleeve, you’re sure to present your house in from all its best angles without even hiring a professional home stylist. Use the tips above to turn your home into an awe-inspiring property and <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/scrambling-to-sell/">see how quickly you can sell your home</a>.
About the author: Lilly Miller is a Sydney-based graphic designer and a passionate writer. Loves everything about home decor, art history and baking. Shares home with two loving dogs and a gecko named Rodney. You can find her on <a data-cke-saved-href="https://twitter.com/heyoitslilly?lang=en" href="https://twitter.com/heyoitslilly?lang=en" rel="nofollow">Twitter</a>.
“Poetry creates the myth, the prose writer draws his own portrait.”
- Jean - Paul Sartre2019-08-05T07:23:00-07:002021-01-21T14:39:11-07:00Cory Towlertag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:59536 Simple House Renovations That Will Attract BuyersEverybody wants to sell their house for the best price possible and under the best possible conditions. But it's also important for the house to be well-preserved when you sell so that avoid any potential problems with the buyers later on. Last but not least - you also need to find a way to attract buyers in the first place. So, which simple house renovations will do all of that?
1. Improve the entryway
This is the first thing a buyer sees when they approach the house. It says a lot about what they will see inside. So, simple tricks will definitely make a good impression, including repainting the front door and mowing the lawn. A nice welcome mat and a couple of carefully placed light fixtures will make the front porch inviting. Add a couple of potted plants around and you'll have a simple, yet <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/entryway-inspiration-fresh-new-ideas/">sweet-looking entryway</a>. Optionally, you can always decorate the whole front yard to really create a wow-effect.
2. Replace the floors
The floors are one of the first things that a buyer notices when they enter a house. Replacing them would be a great investment as it will instantly raise the value of the house. You could opt for hardwood flooring or tile. On the other hand, high-quality carpeting will also do the trick.
You don't have to spend a lot of money on this improvement. Some materials look really attractive even though they were really cheap to buy. Also, if you tear out the old flooring by yourself, that will save you some extra money.
3. The roof
A quality roof is something that a well-trained eye will spot in a second. So, make sure all the broken tiles and shingles are repaired or replaced, and the rest of them are put back into their places. The roof needs to be thoroughly inspected for any leaks. Otherwise, the leaks could cause serious damage up in the attic. The gutters need to be secured and cleaned.
Be careful - many homeowners forget about their own safety when doing roof maintenance. They don't consult companies like Universal Mobile Tower Hire, which provides them with a mobile platform that prevents you from falling down while cleaning the gutters.
4. The kitchen
Being the heart of every home, a kitchen leaves a big impression on any buyer. If possible, the kitchen should be positioned in the center of the home so that everybody can easily gather around it.
Enough storage space is very important, so make sure you have room for oddly-shaped objects like serving platter and chopping boards. The look of cupboards and drawers is important - you don't have to replace them completely, but a fresh coat of paint, a new handle or a knob will update the whole item. Also, make sure that they are all functional. If possible, install the overhead cabinets to the ceiling so that there's no need to dust the upper surface. In case you want to add an additional surface, a butler's pantry would amaze the buyers.
5. The bathroom
Another important room in your home. It needs to look clean, well-maintained, and modern. Fix the leaks and add a new layer of paint, making sure there are <a data-cke-saved-href="https://www.health.com/allergy/mold-test-smell-signs" href="https://www.health.com/allergy/mold-test-smell-signs" rel="nofollow">no signs of mold</a>. A big and well-lit mirror will come in handy, as well as high-level storage for towels and hygiene products. Another smart investment would be heated towel rails, especially if it's a family home. They will prevent damp towels from becoming smelly, especially when there are a couple of family members.
6. The inner walls
Walls are what make a room, so make sure they are not outdated and dirty. A fresh layer of paint doesn't cost a lot but it does wonders for a room. You don't know what kind of buyer you'll come across, so don't go for bold colors. Instead, stick with the neutral ones, like beige, light grey or egg white. They open up space and are easily combined with everything else in the room.
Final comment
A couple of these home improvements will definitely make sure your home is safe and modern. The more time you invest in the improvements, the easier you will <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/scrambling-to-sell/">sell your house</a>, and at the better price as well.2019-06-24T11:53:00-07:002022-02-09T06:47:48-07:00Jeff Cooktag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:606112 Things You Should Know About Real Estate<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1451/image/What_to_know_about_real_estate.png" width="1200" height="800" alt="What to Know About Real Estate" />
The Lighter Side of Real Estate, a website geared towards the fun of real estate, recently released a video of the “12 Things You Should Know About Real Estate.” We love what they had to say and decided we’d like to go a little more in-depth with you about these topics.
1. A home is worth what a buyer is willing to pay.
You may think all the time and effort you have put into your home before listing it, even what you paid for it previously, makes it worth a certain price. Even an appraiser may come in before you list and say it’s worth close to a price you like. But at the end of the day, it is only worth what a buyer is willing to pay for it. They may think your upgrades don’t match up with the asking price. It may be that the home does need renovations and the asking price is too much to justify buying it and immediately pouring more money into it. A buyer would rather purchase a home at $125k, put $25k into it, and have it be worth $180k instead of buying a home at $180k that needs the same work of the $125k home.
2. Upgrades may not increase the value, but they’ll increase the chances of getting it sold.
Similar to what was previously stated, a buyer does not want to pay a certain amount for a home, then have to fork out more money afterward to upgrade the home or even upgrade at all. Most buyers in today’s market want move-in ready houses. Things that can turn potential buyers away before they even reach your front door are white appliances, vinyl flooring, wallpaper, carpet in common areas, and other popular items from 15 years ago. Unless you’re listing at a contractor price, then you’re good to go.
3. Cleanliness is godliness.
No house is ever going to be perfect, especially with a dog in the summer, but it is important to make an effort to keep your home as clean as possible during listing photos and showings. You want potential buyers to remember what they love about the home after they leave, not talking about how much of a mess your home was instead. Check out our <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/how-to-show-your-home-last-minute/">tidying tips for last-minute home showings </a>that will help you clean the most visible parts of your home in less than an hour!
4. Curb appeal is the first (and strongest) impression.
We all know what they say about first impressions. It’s hard for someone to change their mind after a bad first impression. Take a look at the front of your home. As a stranger, would you buy it? Just in case you’re biased, look next door. What about your neighbor’s home? Would you buy theirs? If no, imagine if they made it more presentable. Then would you buy it? Yes? Remove the kid's toys from the front yard. Hide the trash cans and recycling bin. Mow the lawn and trim the bushes, especially before your professional pictures are taken! But continue to maintain the lawn for showings, and for the chance that someone might just drive by and notice the for sale sign in your yard. If you have shutters, make sure they’re all still attached and if needed, slap a fresh coat of paint on them. And don’t forget to pressure wash! <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/4-things-to-do-to-freshen-up-your-curb-appeal/">Freshening up your curb appeal</a> even in the smallest ways can help you greatly in the long run.
5. Pet odor and clutter leave the longest-lasting impressions.
Just because we love our furry friends, doesn’t mean that everyone does. It’s hard to erase every piece of evidence that they exist in your home. No matter how many times you vacuum, there will be pet hair that you miss. Just make an effort. And if you can, hide their bedding and food bowls. Pet odor is extremely hard to hide, especially if you have a puppy learning how to be potty trained or a senile dog with a bladder problem. It might be worth your while to replace your flooring or offer a flooring allowance in the deal. For now, stick a few air wicks in each room.
6. Neutral paint and decor will always appeal to the masses.
Get rid of those dark colors and bright purple accent walls now! That will stick out like a sore thumb in your listing photos before a potential buyer even schedules a showing of your home. The first thought going through their mind is, “how many coats of paint is it going to take to cover up that hideous color.” <a href="https://www.hgtv.com/design/topics/neutral">Neutral is in</a>. Neutral is always in. As for decor, minimal is best. Go ahead and pack any extra decor that is unnecessary while you’re trying to sell.
7. Cheap fixes or updates will result in cheap (low) offers.
If you can’t afford to update the whole house, don’t. Trying to cover everything will result in cheap updates that the potential buyer will most likely want to have redone. If nothing else, as stated above, at least paint. A fresh coat of paint in the whole house as long is it is a natural color, is never wasted money.
8. Everything is negotiable.
Seriously. Everything is negotiable. While the refrigerator seems to be the biggest thing that buyers want or sellers note that it can convey with an acceptable offer, many other items have been negotiated. Blinds, curtain rods, curtains, furniture, even tractors. However, it is very important to make sure negotiations are done right and documented correctly in the contract.
9. Time is of the essence.
Because we’re in a seller's market, it is the perfect time for you to list your home if you’ve been considering it. Homes can barely be put on the market before there is a contract put on them. This being said, time is of the essence for buyers. If you fall in love with a house, you need to put an offer in now, and a good one at that. There’s no time to waste going home and talking about it or sleeping on it. That home might not still be on the market tomorrow.
10. Location! Location! Location!
There are two things people look for when searching for a new home, how far the drive is to work and which school district, even which school in the district, the home is located in. This is a tough hurdle to get over if you’re selling because jobs are so spread out across the Lowcountry so you can’t please everyone and even when you bought the home, it was zoned for a great school, it could get rezoned by the time you decide to sell. If you’re buying, you’re in luck because so many developments are coming in to cater to the new companies moving into the area, which also means that new schools are popping up everywhere.
11. Buyers notice things they want to change before noticing any updates.
Like previously said, it’s hard to please everyone. Even though you just spent $30,000 on an upgraded kitchen and $10,000 on a remodeled master bathroom, a buyer may be groaning because they’re not looking forward to having the carpets ripped up and hardwoods laid. Or, they just might not like the choices you made during the renovation process. One fail-safe move you can make is to allow a flooring allowance or paint allowance, therefore you’re not wasting the money while getting the home <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/scrambling-to-sell/">ready to sell </a>and they can pick out the details they like.
12. When priced right, it will sell.
Most buyers will look at an older home and think, why would I choose this home when I can get new construction for around the same price? It’s almost a losing battle. Except an older home will be move-in ready, have a bigger yard, won’t be located literally on top of the neighbor’s home, and my personal favorite to point out, it withstood Hugo. But you may have to list on the lower end of your price point to compete with those new construction homes.2016-07-15T07:44:00-07:002021-08-30T12:36:57-07:00Thomas "Jeff" Cook