Should You Buy in a Gated Community?

Are you thinking about buying a home in a gated community, but wondering whether or not it’s right for you? You may be asking yourself if its safer or whether or not the home will retain its value better when its time to resell. Here’s a look at what you need to know so that you can make an educated decision.

Safety

When it comes to security, the perception is that gated communities offer homeowners a greater level of protection against crimes such as burglaries. But you also need to consider how easy it is to get inside the gate. Is the gate manned or unmanned? Is the gate often left unlocked? Are the codes to the gate well known because neighbors give them to dog walkers and pizza delivery people regularly?

In 2005, the Orlando Sentinel reviewed the sheriff’s reports for more than 1,400 Florida homes. What they discovered is that rates of residential burglaries and stolen cars were reported at almost exactly the same rate in both gated and ungated communities. Cases of vandalism were reported at slightly lower rates in gated neighborhoods. If safety is your main concern, gated communities don’t offer significantly higher protection from crime.

Traffic

A reduction in traffic is definitely an area where gated communities perform better than neighborhoods without gates. The gates deter using the community as a thoroughfare and since the gate forces cars to slow down, traffic is usually slower and quieter. If you have kids that like to play outside and ride their bikes, gated communities make it safer for them.

Prices

Be prepared to pay a higher price for a home within a gated community. These properties are usually part of a Homeowners Association (HOA), which collects fees to pay for maintenance of the streets, gate, landscaping and other community amenities. You can expect to pay hundreds or even thousands more in fees over the years.

Uniformity

Gated communities are attractive to some buyers because they come with an air of exclusivity. Many communities enforce strict codes of conduct that everyone living within the gates must follow, and you may or may not like this depending on your tastes. There may be restrictions on what colors you can paint your home, where you can park your vehicles and how long you can have guests stay with you. Some people enjoy living in a community where everyone is following the same guidelines, while others find this type of environment too restricting.

Convenience

Convenience – or maybe lack thereof – should also be a consideration when deciding whether or not to buy in a gated community. If the community has a manned gate, you may sometimes have to wait in line to be let in. It can also be an inconvenience to any guests you may have, as they will possibly have to check in at a gate or be buzzed in by a resident. There may also be restrictions on the number of parking spaces allotted to guests.

In the end, only you can decide if a gated community is the right choice for you and your family. By knowing ahead of time both the pros and the cons of living in this kind of neighborhood, you’ll be better able to make that choice when the time comes.

Thanks for reading this article. If it was of help, please pass it on.
If you are looking to sell your home or you know someone who is, give us a call. You and your referrals are the lifeblood of our business. We would love to help you or your friends in your real estate path.

Stan Rector 805-577-7902

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Make Room for Baby

Is your family soon growing from two to three – or even four? Then it’s time to start thinking about how you’re going to make room for the newest addition to your tribe. If you aren’t sure how to find space for a baby in your home, here are some ideas to get you started.

Get rid of unneeded clutter

Babies may be small, but their stuff isn’t. You’ll soon find yourself swimming in onesies, stuffed animals, and car seats. Before the baby’s arrival, do a thorough purge of items in your home that aren’t needed. Clear out closets, find what’s hiding under the bed that you forgot about and opened up those storage boxes. Sell or donate items that are still in usable condition.

Look for new storage possibilities

You may feel like you’re already maxed out on space, but you’re going to feel even more cramped once there’s another small person in your home. Take a good look around and see how you can better organize and store what you do have. Can you add shelves to the top of the closet? Is there any room under the stairs for storage containers? Are you using all your wall space to its fullest potential?

Minimize baby stuff

You may have dreamed of a state-of-the-art nursery for your new little bundle of joy, but if you’re short on space that may not be a practical idea. Many companies now make small-size solutions for babies, including mini-cribs, collapsible bathtubs, and car-seat/stroller combos.  Remember – these are all items you won’t use forever, so it isn’t necessary to buy the biggest and best of everything.

Don’t register for too much

Friends and family may be even more excited about their new family member than you are, and may want to show that enthusiasm by purchasing every item on your registry. Be realistic about what you need, and encourage people to avoid buying any large or bulky items that aren’t on your registry.

Share a room with parents or siblings

Not all families have the luxury of having a room dedicated just for the baby. In this case, you may want to consider having the baby share a room. If you already have younger children in your home, the baby can easily share with a sibling. If not, many people opt to set up a crib in the corner of their rooms – which can be kind of nice when stumbling out of bed at three a.m. to comfort a crying baby.

Convert an extra room to a nursery

If you’re lucky enough to have a spare room already in your house that you’re using as a guest bedroom, office or workout space, then making room for a baby will be easy. Clean Out the old furniture and have fun turning the room into a baby’s paradise, tricked out with all the bells and whistles like a changing station and a rocking chair for late-night feedings.

If you’re getting ready to welcome a new addition to your family – congratulations! With a little creativity and forethought, you can find a way to make room for a baby in your home, even in the smallest of spaces.

Thanks for reading this article. If it was of help, please pass it on.
If you are looking to sell your home or you know someone who is, give us a call. You and your referrals are the lifeblood of our business. We would love to help you or your friends in your real estate path.

Stan Rector 805-577-7902

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10 Tips For Moving With Pets

Tips For Moving

There’s no way around it – moving can be stressful! But when you throw a pet into the mix, it can make the task even more daunting. If you’re getting ready to move, but aren’t sure what to do to make the experience less stressful for you and your pet, read on.

1. Tag and Microchip

With so many people coming in and out of the house during a move, an otherwise well-adjusted pet may get a little spooked and bolt. Moving day is already stressful enough without having to search the neighborhood for your nervous dog. Be sure your pet is microchipped and wearing a collar that clearly identifies your contact information. Also, check that the chip registry has the correct information and update it to your new address.

2. Visit the vet

Your vet is a great resource for you during a move. They can recommend behavior modification techniques or even medication to help quiet your pet’s nerves. You may even be able to get a recommendation for a vet by your new home. Ask for your pet’s medical records before you leave so you can give them to the new vet.

3. Get your pet comfortable

At the minimum, your pet is probably going to have to travel in a car to their new home. If your pet has travel anxiety, give them a few practice trips in the car before the big day. If you’ll be transporting them in a carrier, put the carrier in your home with the door open and a favorite toy inside so they can get used to it.

4. Have a moving day plan

Your home will be a flurry of activity on the day of the move, so make arrangements for your pet to be out of the house on that day if possible. Board them at a kennel or ask a friend or family member to keep them for the day. If your pet must stay at home, keep them in a quiet room with the door closed.

5. Have pet supplies ready

You’ll want to get your pet settled into your new home as soon as possible, so pack them a bag that contains all the essentials they’ll need, including food, water, a bed and a litter box.

6. Prepare for travel

If your move requires a trip on an airline, be sure to make arrangements with the airline beforehand. Some airlines allow pets in the cabin if they can fit under the seat. If not, they may need to travel with checked baggage. If you’re driving to your new house and will need to spend the night in a hotel, find the ones on your route that are pet-friendly.

7. Know the rules

Familiarize yourself with any pet laws at your new location, including leash laws and license and vaccination requirements.

8. Create a sanctuary in your new home

It may take awhile for your pet to get settled into their new home. Create a sanctuary for them in a quiet area of the home that includes their food and water bowls, litter box, beds, and toys.

9. Introduce them to the neighborhood

If you have a dog, work on establishing a routine as soon as possible. Schedule regular walks in the morning and evening to familiarize them with the neighborhood.

10. Save yourself a headache or two

If you are traveling great distances, including to a foreign country, you might consider hiring a pet relocation service. They can guide you through the process and help move your pet from one location to the next, saving you a few headaches and lots of stress along the way.

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Thanks for reading this article. If it was of help, please pass it on.
If you are looking to sell your home or you know someone who is, give us a call. You and your referrals are the life blood of our business. We would love to help you or your friends in your real estate path.

Stan Rector 805-577-7902

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11 Ways to Make Small Rooms Feel Big

Just because you’re short on square footage doesn’t mean your life needs to feel cramped.  Try any of these amazing tricks to make your small space feel big.

1. Choose the right paint colors

While the accepted rule of thumb is to paint small spaces in lighter colors, that isn’t always the case. Some design experts suggest that deeper hues or jewel tones can make a room feel cozy or vibrant. If you’re not sure what to pick, here are some great choices.

2. Embrace natural lighting

A no-fail way to add a feeling of spaciousness to any room is to let the sun shine in. This is especially true if you have a beautiful view outside your window, which will help draw the eye out.

3. Be picky about lighting

Plain overhead lighting isn’t going to cut it in a small space. Go for variety with your lights in a small room to add depth and softness, such as a small table lamp, a floor lamp, and a hanging pendant lamp. If possible, put dimmers on your lights for even more control and variation.

4. Use mirrors

Mirrors not only reflect space back at you, but they also reflect the light, making the room feel more bright and spacious. Hang a wall mirror or lean a floor mirror against the wall opposite a window, which will increase the light in the room and reflect the view back to you.

5. Streamline furniture

Nothing makes a small space feel even more cramped than too much furniture. When outfitting a small room, go for furniture that can serve more than one purpose, such as a steamer trunk that can store pillows and blankets and double as a coffee table or ottoman.

6. Go monochrome

Try painting walls, doors and trim in the same color or different shades of the same color. You can also paint things you don’t want to draw attention to, like built-in shelves and radiators. Choose curtains that also blend with the color on the walls. Or better yet – do away with window treatments altogether if you can.

7. Be bold

Even though you don’t want to overwhelm a tiny space with too much furniture, you can add visual space by choosing one large statement piece, such as a sectional sofa or dining room table.

8. Remove interior doors

If your space is closed off by interior doors that you don’t really need – like the ones that separate a living room and a dining room – remove them. This lets the eye travel so that one space moves seamlessly to the next.

9. Show your legs

Instead of furniture that rests directly on the floor, choose sofas and armchairs with legs to make the room feel airier and more spacious.

10. Be transparent

Choose glass or acrylic tables instead of metal or wood, which disrupt the view and create visual clutter.

11. Get rid of clutter

The number one rule, of course, with any small space is to remove as much clutter as you can. Leave at least half the space on shelves and tables empty for a more spacious and dramatic look.

Thanks for reading this article. If it was of help, please pass it on.
If you are looking to sell your home or you know someone who is, give us a call. You and your referrals are the lifeblood of our business. We would love to help you or your friends in your real estate path.

Stan Rector 805-577-7902

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How to Choose the Best Offer for Your Home

You’ve put your house on the market. You had a great open house. And now you’ve gotten an offer – followed by three more.

If you’re selling your home, you may find yourself in the position of having to choose between different offers. While this is often an enviable position to be in – who doesn’t dream of a bidding war? – it also means that at some point you’ll have to choose between them.

If you’re wondering how to decide between competing offers for your home, here are some tips to make choosing easier.

All offers are negotiable

The first thing to remember when evaluating any offer for your home is that all offers are negotiable. It’s part of the process for the seller and potential buyer to go back and forth until a mutually desirable agreement is made. If you receive an offer that is interesting but not quite what you had hoped for, you can make a counteroffer asking for modifications.

Define your priorities

Before you even begin entertaining any offers, you must first decide what your priorities are for your home sale. On which terms are you willing to negotiate? Which terms, if not fulfilled, are deal breakers? Do you need to sell quickly, or do you have time to wait for a better offer? Take the time to clearly set your goals so you end up satisfied with the process in the end.

Establish a process with your real estate agent

If you or your agent thinks that your home will receive multiple offers, it’s a good idea to have a plan in place before you begin receiving those offers. Decide on a timeframe that you will accept offers, and let potential buyers know there is a clear deadline. Your agent has probably gone through this process before and will likely already have an established way of dealing with multiple offers – let their expertise guide you here. They can discuss with you how the review process will take place, and will likely be open to any modifications you may want to make.

Analyze each offer

Each offer you receive on your home needs to be carefully scrutinized before making a decision. While it may be tempting to go with the buyer offering the highest price, there are other considerations to bear in mind. Does the buyer want you to make any repairs? Are they asking for appliances to be included in the purchase price? Are they offering enough earnest money to deposit for the down payment? Is the buyer pre-approved for a mortgage? Do they want you to cover closing costs? Does their closing date align with your timeline? For each of these critical points, you’ll want to ask yourself what you’re willing to compromise on and what is a deal breaker.

While receiving multiple offers on your home can be very exciting, it’s important to keep in mind the big picture and have a plan in place for what to do if you need to decide between two or more potential buyers. With a little forethought and a set of clearly defined goals, you’ll have an easier time making that final call.

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Thanks for reading this article. If it was of help, please pass it on.
If you are looking to sell your home or you know someone who is, give us a call. You and your referrals are the life blood of our business. We would love to help you or your friends in your real estate path.

Stan Rector 805-577-7902

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Dealing with Easements

Are you considering purchasing a home that has an easement, but you’re not sure how it will affect you? Are you worried that it’s something that could cause you problems down the line? Are you confused about what an easement even is? Here’s what you need to know.

What is an easement?

An easement is a legal right to use someone else’s land for a specific purpose. You may see the term from time to time in listings as you search for homes. Before purchasing a home, it’s essential to know about any existing easements on the property and how they may affect your usage of it. Easements can be granted to entities like utility companies or even to individuals such as your neighbors.

How do you know if there is an easement?

Easements are usually filed with the local assessor’s office. If you do a title search for the property, the easement will show up as well. You can hire a title insurance company or a private title searcher to do this for you, or you can review the deed to the property yourself, which you can obtain from the county clerk or recorder. You can also contact the county or city’s zoning department; they will have surveys and plot maps that detail the easement. The local utility company or other entity with easement rights will also have information regarding the easement.

What are the types of easements?

While there many different kinds of easements here is a brief overview of the types of easements you may encounter in your home search.

• Right of way – This type of easement allows people to pass through your property, typically to a play area, park or lake. Sometimes, this can include a neighbor’s driveway if it is necessary to cross through your property to reach another.
• Utility easements – These easements are generally the most common and are granted to utility companies or the city. They often don’t impact your day-to-day living and are in place simply to prevent your interference with their use.

What if there is a dispute over an easement?

As a property owner, you may not interfere with the use of a legal easement. If you do, you could be held accountable for damages or even be taken to court. If you find that you are involved in a dispute regarding an easement, you should seek the advice of an experienced local real estate lawyer. Laws vary from location to location, so it’s essential to find out the appropriate details that are applied to your specific situation. While most legal easements are written documents, there are cases where unwritten easements can legally be created through particular circumstances, and the laws can be complex. You’ll definitely want reliable advice from someone knowledgeable that you can trust.

While easements may be a little complicated or cause confusion, they are a standard part of many real estate transactions. The most important thing you can do should you decide to purchase a property with an existing easement is to understand what it entails and abide by those determinations.

Thanks for reading this article. If it was of help, please pass it on.
If you are looking to sell your home or you know someone who is, give us a call. You and your referrals are the life blood of our business. We would love to help you or your friends in your real estate path.

Stan Rector 805-577-7902

 

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Stage Your Front Porch to Sell

You’ve cleared out all the clutter, emptied the closets, trimmed the trees, and made all the necessary repairs. Your house is clean and spotless and ready to show to potential buyers.

But have you thought about your front porch?

Your front porch will be one of the first things that potential buyers see when they visit your home. Use these great ideas to make sure your porch makes a warm and welcoming first impression!

Give it a scrub

It probably goes without saying, but having a clean front porch is the first step towards having an inviting front porch. Clear away all the clutter, scrub down the floor and make sure all the cobwebs are out of the corners. Wipe down railings, windows and the front door. If needed, rent a pressure washer to deep clean.

Paint and punch up the color

Staging in neutral colors is often recommended inside your home, but you can be a little more daring on the outside. Don’t be afraid to play with color when you’re staging your front porch. You can add pops of colors by painting furniture, adding throw rugs, painting the front door or even simply adding colorful pots of flowers.

Add plants and flowers

Not only will flowers add some wonderful color to your front porch, plants will also draw the eye and make it cozy. Place plants and flowers in the corners in groups of three, line the steps with potted annuals or hang ferns around the perimeter.

Consider the furniture

A front porch is added living space, so demonstrate to potential buyers how they can best utilize the extra square footage. If you have enough room, add a cozy couch or porch swing, complete with bright and comfortable pillows that invite people to sit and linger. Even if you only have a small space, you can add a bistro chair and a side table – the perfect place to enjoy a morning cup of coffee.

Maximize the view

If your front porch has a beautiful view, then you certainly want to emphasize it. You can add curtains that help to frame that gorgeous vista, and position furniture to maximize what can be seen. Don’t have a great view? Don’t worry! You can still make your front porch inviting by finding ways to play down what may not be the best view – like a parking lot across the street or a birdseye view of the neighbor’s RV. Install shutters, hang heavy curtains or add large plants like potted palms to help obstruct the view.

Lighting

Last but not least – don’t forget the lighting! Swap out an old front porch light with something more stylish and clean all outdoor lights thoroughly, especially if you will be showing your home in the evening. String lights can even add a little romantic charm.

If you’re lucky enough to have a front porch, make the most of it when staging your home! You’ll find that many buyers will be drawn inside based on how welcoming you’ve made your home’s entry.

Thanks for reading this article. If it was of help, please pass it on.
If you are looking to sell your home or you know someone who is, give us a call. You and your referrals are the lifeblood of our business. We would love to help you or your friends in your real estate path.

Stan Rector 805-577-7902

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Make the Most of a Tiny Patio

Do you have grand visions of a summer spent outside, enjoying the sunshine and soft, warm breeze from your beautiful outdoor space? Do you feel like this is all a fantasy because you have a tiny patio that couldn’t possibly live up to your expectations?

Not to worry! Just because you lack square footage doesn’t mean you can’t fulfill those summertime fantasies. Here are some great tips to turn your small patio into something from your dreams.

Keep the design consistent

One of the best ways to make your small patio feel more expansive is to keep the design consistent with what you have in the house. When you open the door, the patio becomes an extension of your indoor living space, spilling out into the outdoors. If you have room for furniture, opt for those in the same style as the adjoining room, and choose similar colors. Keep the floor plan open so that the indoor room flows seamlessly onto the patio.

Consider Proportions

Nothing overwhelms a tiny space like big furniture, so choosing the best sizes for your small patio is key. Opt for chairs and tables with thin lines, clear acrylic or glass to take up less visual space. Make the most of the space you do have by choosing furniture that does double duty, such as a storage box that can double as a bench. Nesting tables and folding chairs also save space when not in use.

Hang a mirror

Mirrors are a common choice in small interiors to help make the space feel bigger, and the same can apply on your patio. Mirrors can help reflect nature back at you, and if you choose a mirror in a bright color or with a stylish design, you can add some wonderful visual flair while you’re at it.

Think vertically

Think you can’t have a garden because you don’t have the space on your patio? Think again. Many homeowners with small patios have turned to vertical gardening, using the walls of their patio space to grow both vegetables and flowers. A trellis can be used for vining plants, and a pallet garden can be the perfect place to tuck lettuce, herbs, and other edible plants.

Don’t forget the floor

Don’t leave the floor out when you decorate your outdoor space. In fact, updating a cement floor will make the space feel much more inviting and livable. Throw rugs can help to soften and warm up a cold floor, and there are even products on the market that allow you to install a temporary wooden floor over concrete.

Add finishing touches

After all, these considerations, what’s really going to make the difference in your outdoor space are all the finishing touches that make it feel personal. String lights will warm up the space in the evening, throw pillows will make everything more comfortable, and a cozy blanket will make those chilly nights much more inviting.

Just because you have a small patio doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy it! With a little thought and creativity, you can turn your tiny space into an outdoor oasis.

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Thanks for reading this article. If it was of help, please pass it on.
If you are looking to sell your home or you know someone who is, give us a call. You and your referrals are the life blood of our business. We would love to help you or your friends in your real estate path.

Stan Rector 805-577-7902

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Save Money on Your Move

Save Money on Your Move

Moving can be tough on a tight budget – but not impossible. If you’re wondering how you’re going to get through your next move without spending a fortune, here are some of our favorite ideas.

Save money on packing

Did you start packing yet? It always seems to surprise people when they begin packing up all their belongings that they have so much more than they thought. How much stuff you move can have a significant effect on what it costs to move it since most moving companies charge by weight, so unloading unwanted items before you move is key. As you pack, decide what you no longer need and donate it before you go.

Save money on supplies

Boxes can be expensive. But why buy them when you can get them for free?  Many businesses will gladly unload their empty boxes if you ask them — produce boxes, liquor boxes and copy paper boxes are especially good for your move. Also, check the free section on Craigslist; many people who just moved will post their empty boxes.

Another way to save on supplies? Use some of the items you are going to pack anyway to cushion other items, instead of buying packing peanuts. Clothes and towels are great for protecting dishes, and blankets are perfect for making sure framed art and mirrors don’t get scratched. As your moving date approaches, save newspapers and circulars that come in the mail – they’re great for protecting anything fragile.

Save money on labor

Some moving companies give discounted rates if you pack your own boxes – call around and get estimates from several different movers. Do you have some friends or family who owe you a favor? Round them up on moving day to help load the truck. If you have some flexibility with your moving date, you can save by scheduling your move during off-peak times. Shoot for the months between September and May, when rates tend to be the lowest, or during the week or the middle of the month.

Save money with the post office

Books are heavy, making them one of the most expensive things to move. If you’ve got a library to rival that of the Library of Congress, consider boxing up your books and shipping them through the US post office via Media Mail. They’ll take a little longer to arrive, but you won’t need those hardcover copies of Harry Potter while you’re unpacking in your new place.

Save money on your taxes

Did you know that you might be able to deduct your moving expenses on your taxes? While the IRS has strict rules about who qualifies, be sure to save all your moving receipts and ask your tax accountant next tax season. If you’re moving for work, your employer may also be willing to cover some if not all of your moving costs.

While moving can be a daunting and expensive task, there are certainly ways that you can save if you get creative and stay organized. With the money you’ll save, you can splurge on massages for the whole family after you’ve unloaded and unpacked all those boxes.

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Thanks for reading this article. If it was of help, please pass it on.
If you are looking to sell your home or you know someone who is, give us a call. You and your referrals are the life blood of our business. We would love to help you or your friends in your real estate path.

Stan Rector 805-577-7902

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Can You Sell Your Home After Labor Day?

Conventional wisdom dictates that spring and summer are the best times to sell your home. And since Labor Day is the unofficial end of the summer season, you may be thinking that you’ve missed your opportunity to put your home on the market.

But that isn’t necessarily the case. While families with school-age children tend to move when school is out of session for the summer, that doesn’t mean everyone else follows that line of thinking. If you’re contemplating putting your home up for sale after Labor Day, here’s what you need to know.

There are fewer homes on the market

Summer is the high season when the real estate market is flooded with the most inventory. By putting your home up for sale after Labor Day, you’ll have fewer homes to compete with. Some buyers who didn’t find what they were looking for over the summer will be glad to see new listings, while buyers without school-age children may just now be deciding it’s time for a move. This timing could very well work in your favor.

Price it right

With fewer buyers looking for a home after Labor Day, you’ll want to make sure you price your home correctly the first time. If not, you could lose potential buyers who might otherwise be interested in your home. Be sure to research comps in your neighborhood, and work with an agent who is an expert in the local market. Pricing your home right from the beginning will help keep it from languishing on the market for too long.

Give your home a makeover

It’s easy to make a home look great in the spring and summer when the sunshine is abundant, and flowers are blooming. It can be a little more difficult when days are dark and trees are bare. Be especially aware of what your home looks like on both the inside and the outside to make the best first impression.

On the outside, be diligent about fall chores like raking leaves, cleaning gutters, and pruning trees and shrubs. Check the roof for missing shingles and replace them as needed. Spruce up your porch with pots of winter annuals like mums or pansies. You can even put out some seasonal decorations, but don’t go overboard. Keep it minimal and tasteful.

On the inside, give your home a thorough cleaning and clear out personal belongings like family photos. If you have large or bulky furniture, move them to storage and arrange what’s left to maximize flow. Give your rooms a fresh coat of paint in neutral colors and remove heavy curtains to let in as much light as possible. Set out fresh flowers and light some candles. If you have the budget, consider hiring a professional staging company to make your home look as welcoming as possible. You want any potential buyers visiting to be able to imagine living in the space.

If you’re thinking about putting your home on the market after Labor Day this year, don’t worry that you’re too late. Follow the tips above to make the most of your listing, and you could have your home sold before the end of the year!

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Thanks for reading this article. If it was of help, please pass it on.
If you are looking to sell your home or you know someone who is, give us a call. You and your referrals are the life blood of our business. We would love to help you or your friends in your real estate path.

Stan Rector 805-577-7902

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Unexpected Ways to Add Value to Your Home

Are you getting ready to sell your home, but want to make some improvements to add value before putting it on the market? Perhaps you’re thinking you need to overhaul the kitchen or upgrade the master bathroom – or any number of other costly renovations. Before you drop thousands of dollars, consider these unexpected – and considerably less expensive – ways to add value to your home.

Address the basics

Yes, a brand new kitchen will make your home look fabulous to buyers – but that won’t get you far if you have a furnace on the fritz or an attic that lacks insulation. While the basics are far less glamorous than totally updating a kitchen or bathroom, they will add value and could mean the difference between your home selling quickly or languishing on the market.

Spruce up your curb appeal

The outside of your home is the first thing potential buyers will see, so make those first impressions count. Having a beautiful yard will entice buyers to come inside. Even better, having a yard that can double as living space makes your home seem bigger. Before selling, make sure all the trees and bushes are pruned, clean up flower beds, plant colorful annuals and clean your home’s exterior. If you have a porch, patio or deck, set it up as a living area, showing potential buyers how the space can be used.

Update your front door

You may not think that something as simple as a front door could add value to your home, but think again. While replacing a worn door is ideal, even simply adding a coat of paint in a striking color can go a long way towards welcoming buyers into your home.

Renovate the attic

Perhaps you think your home needs more space in order to be appealing to potential buyers. While building a brand-new addition to the house is expensive, you could add more space for less money by looking up. Attic renovations are becoming increasingly popular. Upgrading the attic into a useable living space adds the square footage you’re looking for with fewer headaches and less financial investment.

Remove a popcorn ceiling

One of the keys to selling your home quickly is to remove anything that may turn buyers off, and a popcorn ceiling is high on that list. Popcorn ceilings are dated, and spending a weekend removing it yourself can definitely add value. Just be sure to have the ceiling tested by professionals first, as it could contain asbestos. Once you’ve been given the go-ahead, you can complete this project yourself in just a couple of days.

Make small changes to the bathroom

You don’t need to demolish the bathroom and start from scratch in order to create a room that is inviting. For less than $1,000 you can replace an outdated vanity, update lighting fixtures or add a new floor. Even a new coat of paint can make the room feel fresh and bright.

If you’re thinking about selling your home, you no doubt want to get the best possible price. By tackling some of these unexpected projects, you’ll add value that can translate into a higher selling price or a quicker sale.

If you would like some help determining what would be the best things to do in your home before putting it up for sale. Give us a call and we’ll walk the house with you and let you know our thoughts and why we’s our suggestions would work in today’s current market.

Stan Rector 805-577-7902

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Are You Ready for Your Home Inspection?

Whether you are a buyer or a seller, a home inspection is going to be part of the process of any real estate transaction. Once an offer is made on a house, the buyer hires a home inspector to review the property before the purchase. You can think of this inspection as a physical exam, where the inspector investigates all the systems of the home and recommends what areas may need further evaluation.

The inspection process can be daunting for both buyers and sellers. The best way to mitigate any anxiety you might feel is to make sure you are prepared.

What does a home inspection include?

During the home inspection, the inspector will be examining components of the home including the roof, exterior, plumbing, heating and air conditioning, insulation, ventilation and interiors. The inspection itself generally takes between two and three hours, and once it is complete, the findings will be summarized and documented in a report. This includes any areas that the inspector determines need attention or repair.

How to prepare if you’re the buyer

To get the most out of the home inspection, a buyer should:

• Come prepared with any questions that have arisen when visiting the home.
• Advise your agent of when the inspection has been scheduled.
• Ask each agent about any known problems with the home.
• Read the disclosure form supplied by the seller and bring it to the inspection.
• Ask neighbors about the history of the home.
• If the home is vacant, be sure to have all the utilities turned on before the inspection date.
• Bring pen and paper to record any information the inspector gives you about the condition of the home.
• Determine if you want any additional testing, such as testing for radon or lead paint, as these may not be included in the standard testing. Contact the inspector beforehand to arrange these tests.

How to prepare if you’re the seller

Even though the home inspection is primarily for the buyers, sellers can prepare to make the inspection as easy as possible to avoid delays.

• The seller is not generally present for the inspection, so be sure to leave your home before the inspection begins. Remove or crate pets so they won’t be a distraction.
• Disclose any components that aren’t working properly.
• Clean your home and turn on all the lights. Make sure all light bulbs are working.
• Remove clutter from areas where the inspector will need access, such as under sinks and in front of appliances such as water heaters.
• Be sure to unlock and provide access to all spaces of your home, including gates, doors and garages.
• Identify attic and crawlspace hatches and make sure they are accessible.
• Clear driveways and walkways of debris, snow and ice.
• Collect paperwork about all the repairs and maintenance you’ve made on the house including inspections and insurance claims.

No matter if you are a buyer or a seller, the process of closing on a home will always include an inspection of the property. If both parties are informed and prepared on inspection day, the process can move more quickly and easily and reduce headaches and stress for everyone involved.

If you would like asked to share some home inspectors we have used in the past please give us a call.

Stan Rector

805-577-7902

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Tips for Home Sellers

Sometimes selling a home can feel like a big job – one with a thousand small tasks required to get it done. But many sellers make the job harder by ignoring or avoiding some of the biggest factors that contribute to a faster sale. Use this list to see if your house is truly ready for that “sold” sign.

1) Price is paramount.

With the housing market climbing out of its slump, many sellers are banking on higher sale prices. Just make sure you don’t reach too far when pricing your home, and rely on a good agent to help you find the “sweet spot” for your listing. Go too high and you’ll risk slowing down buyer traffic. And once your home has sat on the market for a long time, buyers automatically become suspicious. Even though your home might look great, buyers will notice the listing’s “time on the market” and naturally wonder “What’s wrong with it?”

2) Tour your home like a buyer.

Thousands of sellers make the mistake of looking around their home with the eyes of someone who knows it well and loves it dearly. But buyers won’t see it that way. So walk through your home as if you’re seeing it for the first time, taking note of everything that might give you pause as a skittish buyer. Never assume that a potential buyer will be able to overlook what you perceive as small flaws in the house.

Stage your home with the help of a professional stager (or a friend who’s great at interior design and organization) to create positive word-of-mouth with Realtors. While you’re staging the house, put away all or most of your family photos and other trinkets that make it “yours.” Your goal is to make it look like a model home so buyers can envision themselves living there. Don’t wait until an Open House is scheduled for your property to do repairs, staging and de-personalizing. Do it before your house ever gets listed online. As Realtor.com President Error Samuelson said, “Web appeal is the new curb appeal.” According to a study done by Trulia.com, homes with six photos posted online are twice as likely to be viewed by buyers as homes with fewer than six.

3) Let them in!

Nothing is more frustrating for an agent than a seller who doesn’t want to let potential buyers in to see it. Yes, last-minute requests for showings are a hassle. Yes, it’s a real pain to keep the house clean all the time. Yes, it’s tough to do showings when you have babies or toddlers at home. But the homes that sell fastest are the ones people are able to see quickly and easily. If you have lots of requirements for showings or long wait times, agents are likely to skip your house and go on to the next.

4) Be social.

We live in an increasingly social world, so take advantage of connections by inviting your neighbors to tour your house. It’ll encourage them to spread the word to friends who may be looking for a house in the area. And ask your Facebook friends to help out by sharing a great photo of the house you’ve posted on their timelines. Some sellers even create video “love letters” to their homes and post them on YouTube to endear the home to potential buyers.

With the right price, the right look, accessibility and social connections, you’re well on your way to the “sold” sign you’re working toward.

Article courtesy of http://www.trulia.com

If you would like to know what your home might sell for.  Fill out the Market Snapshot form at the bottom of the page or Click Here!

Here to serve you,

Stan Rector 805-577-7902

Is It Time to Downsize Your Home?

If you’re raising a family, it’s normal to want to purchase a home that can fit your family’s needs down the line – whether it be additional bedrooms for children you want to have or even room to care for aging parents.

But what if your kids are grown and have moved away? Or what if you feel overwhelmed by everything you have to take care of with your larger home? Or perhaps you just have a desire to live more simply?

There can be many reasons for wanting to downsize to a smaller home. Here are some things to keep in mind as you contemplate making the move.

Where will you go?

One of the first things you should ask yourself when you consider downsizing is where you will go. Sure you may own your home and will be able to use the money from the sale to buy your new place, but how far will those dollars stretch? If you’re contemplating a move to an urban center or to a market where real estate prices are considerably more expensive than where you are coming from, you may find that you can’t afford the lifestyle you’ve become accustomed to. Take time to understand the community you want to move to and where you may need to make compromises so that you can enjoy your time there.

What will you do with your stuff?

Most people tend to accumulate more and more stuff as they get older. When it finally comes time to sell and downsize some may feel overwhelmed having to manage everything during a move. Be sure to give yourself plenty of time to deal with your possessions and have a plan for what you’ll do with all the things you won’t take with you. Some ideas include donating items to friends and family who can use them, having a yard sale or selling items online. You may even make some extra money in the process.

How do you want to spend your time?

Is visiting your kids and grandkids your biggest priority? If so, you may want to have an extra room for overnight guests. Maybe you want to travel? That might mean you can sacrifice on space so you don’t have to worry about your house while you’re gone. Do you daydream about never mowing the lawn again? Condo living could be right up your alley. Is it important to you to have easy access to cultural events, shopping and restaurants? Then a home near a city center that is walkable or close to public transportation could be an option, or even a suburban town center that locates residential construction near all the needed amenities.

Ultimately, the decision to downsize is based on many factors, from wanting to be closer to family to the desire to spend less money on a mortgage, property taxes and insurance. If you think it may be time to downsize, a trusted real estate professional can help you determine what the best plan of action is for your specific needs.

If you would like to know what your home might sell for. Please fill out the Market Snapshot form at the bottom of the page, OrClick Here!

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10-Minute Home Projects

You’re probably familiar with the idea that little things add up to a lot. But did you ever stop to think about how that can be applied to the upkeep of your home?

Homeowners know that one of the responsibilities of ownership is keeping up with regular maintenance and repairs. While it may sometimes feel overwhelming, there are simple, ten-minute projects that you can do that will make a huge difference in your quality of life at home. Fit them in between episodes of your favorite Netflix binge, and you’ll feel like you’re hardly putting in any effort at all. Here are some of the easiest projects to get you started.

Easy home repair projects

Sometimes it isn’t worth calling a handyman or your brother-in-law to come over and help. These are easy fixes you can complete by yourself in ten minutes or less:

• Fix a squeaky door – If you’re tired of the squeaky kitchen door alerting your spouse to your midnight snack attacks, spray some WD-40 on the hinges and open and close the door a few times to work it in. You can also try petroleum jelly.
• Sticky windows – Don’t let a hard-to-open window keep you from enjoying a nice summer breeze. Spray silicone lubricant (found at home improvement stores) onto a rag and wipe into the track of a plastic, wood or metal window frame. Dry lubricants like PTFE spray can be used on a vinyl window.
• Silence a squeaky floor – While it’s not a permanent fix, sprinkling talcum powder into the cracks between floorboards will help to temporarily silence those noisy floors.
• Replace a broken toilet lever – First pop open the back to make sure the chain is still attached. If it’s broken, buy a replacement toilet lever kit. Don’t let these instructions worry you – it’s very simple and with the exception of going to the store to get the kit, it won’t take you more than ten minutes.

Easy home maintenance projects

If you want to avoid costly repairs due to negligence, it’s important to keep up with regular home maintenance chores. The following projects are so simple you have no excuse to put them off:

• Change the filters on your air conditioning unit and furnace to keep them running smoothly, especially in summer and winter.
• Replace batteries in smoke detectors once a year.
• Clean lint from your dryer exhaust with a long, flexible brush or a vacuum hose attachment.
• Vacuum the coils on your refrigerator once a year.
• Flush the garbage disposal in your sink once a month with a mixture of baking soda and hot water.
• Check fire extinguishers.
• Test your garage door opener regularly to make sure that it reverses automatically if there is an obstruction.
• Clean the filter on your stove’s range hood. It can get quite greasy, but cleaning it is easy.

Keeping up with the small tasks around your home will go a long way towards making sure everything stays in good working order. And when it comes time to sell, you’ll have much less to worry about. So hit the “pause” button on the remote and take ten minutes to complete one of these easy tasks. You’ll be glad you did!

If you would like to know what your home might sell for. Please fill out the Market Snapshot form at the bottom of the page, Or Click Here!

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When You Should – and Shouldn’t – DIY

Are you starting to feel a little bored with your house? Are you daydreaming about making some changes? At some point, most homeowners want to spruce up their home a little bit – and may even try to handle some of those upgrades on their own. But beware – there are certain projects you can DIY, and some that you shouldn’t.

Go ahead and DIY these projects

If you’ve got the itch to get your hands dirty and feel a sense of accomplishment (and not to mention potentially save some money), these home improvement projects fit the bill. They can be easily done with a little bit of know-how and some elbow grease, without requiring too much expertise or special equipment.

• Paint – If you want the biggest bang for your DIY buck, this is the best place to start. Painting a room, or even an accent wall or a piece of furniture, will quickly change the energy and aesthetic in a space without too much effort or expense on your part. The key to a good paint job is preparation – be sure to fill holes and sand them, and tape and protect anything you don’t want to find splattered later.
• Update hardware – If you want to give a new look to your kitchen or bathroom cabinets, and easy DIY is to change out the hardware. All you need is a screwdriver and some time. Be sure to buy new pulls or knobs that match the existing holes.
• Change out faucets – This is a great first-time plumbing DIY that can make a dramatic difference. If you have a wrench and know where to shut off your water, you can swap out a leaky faucet or upgrade to a more functional or designer model. Don’t worry – you can totally do this on your own, and think of how good you’ll feel when you’re done!
• Install a chandelier on a dimmer – Installing a chandelier with a dimmer switch is not as hard as you think and can quickly transform your room into a cozy and inviting space. Be sure to buy special dimmable bulbs and turn the power off at the breaker box before you start.
• Replace your showerhead – Replacing a showerhead is so easy you’ll wonder why you didn’t do it sooner. You can upgrade your shower experience by installing a new model with special features like mood lights or massaging jets. You can even save money by going with a low-flow unit.

Hire a pro for these projects

Once you’ve gotten a few projects under your belt, you might feel like there isn’t any home improvement project you can’t DIY. However, there are certain things that should always be left to the pros, including:

• Knocking down walls or building a new addition.
• Repairing faulty wiring or other electrical work.
• Repairing plumbing, other than a clogged drain or replacing a faucet.
• Installing new siding.
• Replacing windows.
• Hooking up a new gas appliance.
• Installing new tile.
• Refinishing a hardwood floor.
• Repairing the roof.
• Installing a new fence.
• Anything that requires a permit, unless you are a professional. This could lead to serious problems when you try to sell later.

Once you understand what you should and shouldn’t attempt on your own, have fun! Tackling small DIY projects around your home will refresh and re-energize your space and make it feel like new again.

If you would like to know what your home might sell for. Please fill out the Market Snapshot form at the bottom of the page, Or Click Here!

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How to Sell Your Home When You Have A Pet

Nobody wants to smell pet odors when they’re looking at a potential new home. Nor do they want to see piles of pet hair on the carpet. But are there ways to actually use your pet to your advantage when selling your home? Here’s a look at how best to deal with pets when your home is on the market.

Minimize the negative

Not every potential buyer is going to feel the same way about your pets as you do – especially if your beloved pet is something other than a dog or cat. Follow these tips to best minimize any negative consequences of pet ownership while you’re selling:

• Repair any damage caused by the pets, including carpets, hardwood flooring, walls, furniture and outdoor areas. Your home is not ready for showing until these issues are addressed.
• Remove pet stains and odors by having carpets and floors professionally cleaned.
• Tidy up the yard, especially if you have a dog that spends a lot of time outside.
• Relocate your pet during showings. Ideally, your home should be shown by an agent while you are away, but don’t leave your pets behind. Either have them boarded during the duration of the selling process, or at the very least take them with you when you leave for a showing. This is doubly true if your pet is something like a snake or lizard that may potentially scare a buyer.
• Clean, clean, clean. It cannot be emphasized enough – if your pet is not being boarded while you are selling, be sure to thoroughly clean and vacuum the house before each showing. Potential buyers could have allergies, or there could be lingering smells that you don’t notice because you’ve lived with them for so long. Smell has a powerful effect on our emotions, and you don’t want to lose a sale simply because the odor in your home left a buyer with a negative feeling.
• Remove litter boxes, food and water bowls, and pet toys while the home is being shown.

Maximize the positive

Conventional wisdom has always been that evidence of pet ownership put off potential buyers. But many experts are now challenging that idea. Sellers are beginning to find ways to use their pets to their advantage. After all, many people today share their home with their pets, and knowing that they’ll be able to do that in their new home could be a selling point. Here are some ways that you can maximize the positive:

• Pets can help make an otherwise sterile home feel cozy and lived in. Sometimes including a cute and well-behaved pet in a photo will help make a space feel more livable. If strategically placed, a pet can even draw attention to a home’s best feature, such as a fireplace or picture window.
• If your pet is exceptionally well-behaved (like a therapy dog), they can boost the perception of your home during a showing. But the pet needs to be calm and reassuring, and you should limit it to one pet.
• Dogs and cats should be the only pets you might consider including. It is not advisable to include snakes or other types of pets that might make buyers uneasy.

Ultimately, the decision to include a pet should be discussed with your real estate professional. They understand your local market and will have a better idea of whether or not your pet could potentially be a selling point.

If you would like to know what your home might sell for. Please fill out the Market Snapshot form at the bottom of the page, Or Click Here!

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Use Your Tax Refund On Your Home

Have you filed your taxes yet?

We know — tax season isn’t anybody’s favorite time of the year (except, of course, for tax accountants). But if you’re expecting a refund, now is a great time to reinvest that money in your home. Whether you’ll be getting a check for a few hundred dollars or a few thousand, there are great ways you can put that money to good use.

Save it for a down payment

Are you hoping to buy a home in the near future? As you probably already know, you’ll be expected to put down a down payment — anywhere from 3.5 to 20 percent or more of the purchase price. If you’re expecting a refund in the thousands of dollars, adding it to your down payment savings account is a fantastic way to get yourself closer to home ownership. And if you manage to save more than 20 percent, you’ll eliminate the need to buy mortgage insurance, saving you even more money down the line.

Pay down your mortgage

Even if you have a great rate on your mortgage loan, making an extra payment will still help you save money in the long run. By paying off more of your mortgage early, you will pay less interest over time. You’ll build equity more quickly and will own your home outright sooner. You may also be able to eliminate the cost of mortgage insurance once some of your loan has been paid off.

Purchase additional insurance

An inevitable part of owning a home is also purchasing homeowner’s insurance. This protects you from liabilities should someone get injured on your property and sue you. Unfortunately, most homeowner insurance policies are not comprehensive. By purchasing umbrella insurance, you get additional protection once your primary insurance coverage limits are reached, and as an added bonus, it also applies to your vehicles. For around $300 a year, you get about $1 million in coverage. It’s a very small price to pay for peace of mind.

Audit your home’s energy usage

Leaky windows, drafty doors and energy-hogging appliances all needlessly eat up your money. If you’d like to find ways to cut your energy costs, consider using your tax refund for a home energy audit. While there are free programs available from many local power companies who will send out a professional to look at your home and offer advice about where to make changes, the biggest bang will be to hire a private firm to do a comprehensive audit of your home. While you’ll be paying more up front, the audit is much more detailed and could potentially save you up to 30 percent on your energy bills should you decide to implement their suggestions.

Make needed home repairs

If your refund is less than $1000, perhaps one of the best ways to use it is to make some needed home repairs that you’ve been putting off. You can repaint, add some new landscaping, buy a programmable thermostat or finally organize your garage. The money spent will go a long way to contributing to your overall enjoyment of your home.

While it may be tempting to splurge on a big treat, spending your tax refund wisely on your home can improve your financial health for the long haul.

If you would like to know what your home might sell for. Please fill out the Market Snapshot form at the bottom of the page, Or Click Here!

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Make Your Wood Floors Look Like New

Did you buy an older home because you fell in love with its character? Many homes built in previous decades or centuries feature details that often aren’t prevalent in new construction, such as Dutch doors, transom windows and even dumbwaiters or laundry chutes.

One of the most attractive features in many older homes are the hardwood floors. But years of wear and tear can leave them looking dull, scratched or dingy. If your home’s hardwood floors need a makeover, follow these steps to have them looking like new.

Sweep and repair

After emptying the room of all its furniture, give the floor a good sweep and vacuum to get rid of all the dirt and grit. This is also the best time to deal with repairs, such as sinking nail heads, filling in scratches or patching holes.

Clean with appropriate cleaner

Next, you’ll want to clean your floor with an appropriate cleaner, such as Murphy’s Oil Soap or Bona Floor Cleaner. It’s important not to use regular soap or harsh chemicals on your hardwood floor, as they can leave a residue or damage the wood with too much moisture. Let the floor dry.

Polish and seal

After the floor is dry, apply a thin layer of polish evenly around the room. The polish will help to moisturize the wood and leave it shiny. Polishes can be purchased with either a satin or glossy finish, depending on your tastes. Some floors benefit from a second coat; follow instructions on the label to determine how much time should elapse between applications. Be sure to give the floor plenty of time to dry before moving furniture back in – in some cases up to three days.

Buffing and waxing

Sometimes cleaning and polishing just doesn’t give your floor the love it needs to restore its luster, especially if it is already finished with wax or shellac. In this case, you can use a floor buffer to remove the top layer of finish off the floor. Buffers can be rented for around $50 a day, just be sure the buffer has a sanding screen so you don’t remove too much of the surface of the floor. Clean the dust and follow with a floor wax, which can be buffed to a shine once it dries.

When to call a professional

If none of the above techniques give you the results you desire, it may be time to refinish your hardwood floors. This technique requires more time and know-how, so even though you can rent a sander to do the job yourself, it might be best to hire a professional. Not only will they properly sand your floor, they will also re-stain and seal it, restoring your beautiful floors to their former glory, which, with the proper care, will last you for many years to come.

Nothing gives a home warmth and character quite like a well-cared for hardwood floor. It is worth the investment to refresh your floors; not only does it renew your home’s energy, it can even increase its value.

If you would like to know what your home might sell for. Please fill out the Market Snapshot form at the bottom of the page, Or Click Here!

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Create a Clean Canvass for Your Buyer

For many of us, bright, beautiful colors bring joy to our lives. When we make our homes our own, we tend toward the colors that make us happy. When we think about selling our home, however, we need to understand just how subjective color is. While cool greens make cause you to think of shimmering tropical waters, those same colors may remind a potential buyer of the walls of a hospital or school they didn’t enjoy.

While not everyone’s reaction to color is this extreme, there are ranges of colors that can cause potential buyers to be unable to see themselves living in your home. In fact, some people see colors differently. Of course you’ve heard of color blindness in the red/green spectrum (either deuteranopia or protanopia), but there is also blue/yellow color blindness (tritanopia) where a person confuses blue with green and yellow with violet.

Many people do not realize they are color blind … they’ve always seen colors in the same way, but the wall that is a lovely shade of yellow to you appears as a garish shade of violet to them.

“Well, they can just repaint,” you say.

That’s true, and for people that are able to fully utilize their imagination, they can see the new color on the walls or cabinets and imagine themselves enjoying life in your house. For others, the current color clouds their mind and they cannot visualize it being different. This is especially true of bright or deep colors such as reds and pinks, or deep blues and greens, but even a yellow kitchen, for instance, can be off-putting to someone unable to enjoy that color.

Enter the neutrals

Because of the potential for a color to detract from a home’s resale value, sellers used to be encouraged to paint everything white. While this no longer is the case, most real estate professionals will encourage you to consider repainting in a modern neutral.

What are modern neutrals?

Each year, paint manufacturers develop colors that add warm or cool undertones to white and range from off whites to cool grays and beiges. They come up with beautiful names for these colors and sophisticated palettes that give walls color, depth and dimension without overwhelming the ability to imagine them as other colors.

A trend that seems to evoke a pleasant response is a warm form of beige or gray with white trim, but shades of greens, blues or golds with the correct undertones with less “weight” and “dominant presence” work as neutrals in many situations. Modern neutrals allow for a mellower backdrop to brighter furnishings and window coverings, while giving a cleaner canvass in which potential buyers can imagine their own furnishings and décor.

Regional preferences may mean that certain neutrals appeal more in certain areas. As your real estate professionals, we can advise you about the colors and tones that seem to be more appealing to local buyers.

Give me a call if you would like to talk about what is currently going on in the market. We have an incredible marketing plan that will help you get the the most money for your home, in the quickest amount of time. Or if you are looking to buy we can help find you the home of your dreams.

Call Now – Stan Rector 805-577-7902 (Office)

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