Cutting Moving Costs

Changing residences can be a difficult process, often having a negative impact on your pocketbook. However, there are ways to cut back on moving costs in order to ensure you have some spare change available. The authors at HGTV’s FrontDoor offer 10 tips to cut moving costs, several of which are presented below.

1. If you don’t need it, don’t pay to move it.
   Movers base their prices on what you’re shipping, so cutting down on clutter will simplify your life and lighten up the load in the moving truck. We’re talking to you, the owner of the treadmill-turned-drying-rack. You can sell what you don’t need or donate it to charity.
2. If possible, schedule your relocation after peak moving season.
   Most people choose to move in the summer months, when the kids are out of school. The least expensive time of the year to move is between October and April, so if it’s possible to postpone your move, you could save some money.
3. Get at least three in-home estimates.
   If you’re hiring a professional mover to do the heavy lifting and packing, prices can vary widely between companies. To make sure you’re getting the best deal possible, get at least three estimates.

For the full list of tips, please click on the full article link below. Keller Williams agents are experts in all things real estate, and can provide you with further advice for buying or selling a home. Contact us today for more information!

Source: FrontDoor | Full Article

How can I save on landscaping?

Ensuring that your home has curb appeal is a surefire way to attract potential buyers and enhance your chances of obtaining a quick sale. Though sometimes overlooked, a home with a well-landscaped yard can have a drastic impact on those who view it. Although professional landscaping isn’t cheap, taking the time to do the work yourself can have many benefits. A recent article posted on CNNMoney outlines several steps you can take to get your home looking picture-perfect at a fraction of the price. Several of the tips are listed below.

1. Broaden the beds
2. Focus on foliage
3. Accent the architecture
4. Trim with technique

For more information on how these steps can contribute to your curb appeal (including a full description of each of the items listed above), please click the full article link below. As always, contact us today for all of your real estate needs in Greater Lafayette!

Source: CNNMoney | Full Article

Tips For Making Your Home Saleable

For any homeowner, the idea of putting a house up on the market may seem daunting. What are the steps that should be taken in order to ensure the best possible outcome for showings and an eventual sale?

Thankfully, the folks at REALTOR.com have provided a couple of tips that can easily be followed to prep your home for sale. Additionally, they have offered some advice on what you can do to increase the quality of showings scheduled once your home is up on the market. Tips include:

• Keep counter tops cleared
• Replace all burned out light bulbs
• Open all drapes and window blinds
• Put pets in cages or take them to a neighbor
• No dirty dishes in the sink

For the full list of tips, please see the link below, and for more information on selling your home, contact us today!

Source: REALTOR.com | Full Article

 

Five Things to do Before Putting Your Home on the Market

Thinking about selling your home? Here are five actions you can take now to help prepare your home for the market, courtesy of the National Association of REALTORS® website.

1. Have a pre-sale home inspection. Be proactive by arranging for a pre-sale home inspection. An inspector will be able to give you a good indication of the trouble areas that will stand out to potential buyers, and you’ll be able to make repairs before open houses begin.

2. Organize and clean. Pare down clutter and pack up your least-used items, such as large blenders and other kitchen tools, out-of-season clothes, toys, and exercise equipment. Store items off-site or in boxes neatly arranged in the garage or basement. Clean the windows, carpets, walls, lighting fixtures, and baseboards to make the house shine.

3. Get replacement estimates. Do you have big-ticket items that are worn our or will need to be replaced soon, such as your roof or carpeting? Get estimates on how much it would cost to replace them, even if you don’t plan to do it yourself. The figures will help buyers determine if they can afford the home, and will be handy when negotiations begin.

4. Find your warranties. Gather up the warranties, guarantees, and user manuals for the furnace, washer and dryer, dishwasher, and any other items that will remain with the house.

5. Spruce up the curb appeal. Pretend you’re a buyer and stand outside of your home. As you approach the front door, what is your impression of the property? Do the lawn and bushes look neatly manicured? Is the address clearly visible? Are pretty flowers or plants framing the entrance? Is the walkway free from cracks and impediments?

If you are ready to list, contact a Keller Williams associate today! Our agents are armed with the knowledge and skill sets you need to sell your home quickly and effectively.

Source: NAR | Full Article

This Month in Real Estate Video – February 2011

February’s “This Month in Real Estate” video has been released. The February edition discusses a NAR report detailing that 89% of all home buyers begin their search on the Internet. As such, those who are interested in selling their home should place a great emphasis on how their home is marketed online.

The video also includes tips for selling your home during the winter months. Sellers should price their homes correctly, stage well, and look to benefit from the many aforementioned buyers who begin their search on the Internet. Access the video by clicking the “Play” button below.

A Keller Williams agent can walk you through every step of selling your home – contact us today for more information!