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LOOK UP, DOWN & ALL AROUND THEN CLEAN THE LITTLE MESSES YOU’VE FOUND!

Jan10
2019 Written by mary.w

You work sooooo hard to make sure your home looks clean, crisp and move in ready for your prospective buyers/renters to view. But a common mistake many people make is looking at all the big stuff (painting, landscaping, appliances, etc.) and miss the small things that can scream out at your buyers/renters. Walk through your home and take the time to look up, look down and take a good look all around. Then get our your cleaning supplies or paint brush and let those finishing touches now yell out this home really is move in ready!

  • Look Up: Bathroom Ceiling Vents. These hold on to so much dust that once you take it down and look at it, you’ll wonder how you were ever breathing at all.  It’s simple to take down, wash and put back up. But make sure you also take the time to clean the vent fan and around it before replacing the cover. If the cover shows any kind of rust or discoloring, pick up a new one. Cost is low, return is high!
  • Look Up: Remove all bugs and dust from ceiling light fixtures. Take down and wash it thoroughly. Then clean around the bulb area before replacing the fixture cover.
  • Look Up: Walk through every room with a long mop or swiffer type product and look at the corners or all ceilings and along wood beams for cobwebs. Takes only a moment to remove yet leaves a lasting impression.
  • Look Up: Ceiling Fan Blades are notorious for accumulating a tremendous amount of dust which, if left long enough, will be able to be seen or felt as it falls from the blade when they turn on the fan to see if it works.
  • Look Up and Down: Ceiling/Wall/Floor Heating Vent or Cold Air Returns: Just like the bathroom vent cover, because of the blowing air and dust that circulates, these also hold onto a lot of dust. The tendency is to use a swiffer or broom and just brush off the dust but since the vent themselves have dust in them, that fresh, clean appearance won’t last long. Take the extra time to remove the vent covers, wash or wipe them down thoroughly. Then use your vacuum hose to clean out the vent itself.
  • Look All Around: Stand outside your front, back and side entries. These areas, especially if you have light fixture, accumulate a bunch of cobwebs and bugs. Use a shop vac or wet cloth/mop to clean all around the entryway. Remove the light cover and clean the area and cover thoroughly.
  • Look All Around: Take the time to clean your windows on the inside and out. Nothing makes a room look dirtier than sun shining through a dirty, streak, dust filled window. On the other hand, a sunbeam flowing through a clean window is inspiring!

These are just some ideas to help you get an idea what you still need to do. Some of these tasks can seem tedious but in the end a few things will result: If you’ve had allergies you may see an improvement due to the reduction in dust; your home will feel cleaner, look cleaner and present a better and hopefully lasting impression!

It’s All About Perspective!

Dec02
2018 Written by mary.w

If you watch tv at all or read the newspapers, it can be confusing when you’re trying to decide if it’s a good time for you to sell? Is it a good time for you to buy? Are people still looking? Are interest rates a problem? Are values going up? Going down? How can you make the best decision with confidence about moving forward…or not? Perhaps once you realize it’s all about perspective you can determine the best decision for you.

Why is it a good time to sell?

  • Interest Rates Are Still Low
  • Interest Rates Might Be Going Up
  • Economy on Upswing
  • Prices Are Still Rising or are Stable
  • Buyers Are Still Shopping

Why is it a good time to buy?

  • Interest Rates Are Still Low
  • Interest Rates Might Be Going Up
  • Economy on Upswing
  • Prices Are Still Rising or are Stable
  • Buyers Are Still Shopping

Get the point? It’s all in perspective. If you want to sell…sell! If you want to buy…buy!  We’re in a unique time so take advantage and give yourself the authority to move forward into your future!!

Welcome Your Buyers Home w/Unexpected Extras!

Nov19
2018 Written by mary.w

You can make your buyers glad they bought your home by doing a little bit extra to make their move in easier and more stress free. Even if you never see them again, you’ll leave knowing you did what you could to give them a great beginning from your ending!

Here’s some ideas of items you can leave for them:

  • Warranty Information for Appliances, Furnace, Water Heater, Washer/Dryer, etc
  • Instruction Manuals for Appliances, Alarm Systems, Electronic Systems, etc
  • Free Standing Shelves/Closet Organizers You Won’t Be Needing at Your New Home
  • Hangers in the Closets
  • Information About Annual Community Events (parades, festivals, markets, etc)
  • Detailed List of Stores, Specialty Shops, Restaurants, Medical Centers/Hospitals
  • Detailed List of School Options – Public and Private
  • Detailed Info About Garbage Day/Recycling &  Lawn Waste Rules & Pickups

To top it all off, if they’re moving in on closing day, leave a bouquet of flowers or a tray of cookies with a note saying “Welcome Home”! They will have no doubts they bought the right home from the right people!!

Posted in General Information, Tips and Ideas

We Honor our Veterans on the 100th Anniversary of Armistice Day!

Nov11
2018 Written by mary.w

First, let me state that, on this Veterans Day, the 100th anniversary of the end of WWI, we at BuyOwner.com,  are grateful for those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom and appreciate and thank our active military and veterans for your service. There are home ownership and rental benefits for both active military, veterans and the families of those who were lost in battle. When you’re ready to get started with your BuyOwner.com advertising, we will gratefully provide you with a Military usaflagdiscount! To help you on your journey to home ownership or leasing options, below you’ll find valuable information that will make your home search more manageable, less stressful and lead you to your new home!

One of the first places to check for eligibility, benefits and assistance is the US Department of Veterans Affairs. Some of their offerings include $0 down payment mortgages, housing grants for disabled veterans (with service related disabilities) and even have help if you’re choosing to rent instead of own. So let’s get started so you can move into your well earned lifestyle!

VA MORTGAGE GUARANTY PROGRAM

Veterans and service members can use this mortgage program if they are wanting to buy a home with no down payment. VA mortgages generally do cost less and provide for more flexible qualification requirements than traditional conventional mortgages.

BENEFIT FOR SERVICE RELATED DISABLED VETS – ADAPTIVE HOUSING GRANTS

If you are a veteran suffering with service related disabilities, you are eligible to receive assistance with the costs of altering your existing home or with building a new home. Visit the VA website to review details regarding 3 possible programs designed to help you live as independently as possible. They are: Special Housing Adaptation, Specially Adapted Housing and Temporary Residence Adaptation.

FORECLOSURE PREVENTION

Already own a home but suffering from some financial challenges; before you give up and walk away (which will incur more challenges in the future) contact your local VA office or the VA website to speak with counselors specifically focused on helping you avoid foreclosure. You can take advantage of this help even if your mortgage is not a VA loan.

ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE THROUGH YOUR HOME STATE

Active duty personnel and veterans can access state assistance with housing related benefits such as the Military Housing Assistance Fund. This provides help with closing costs related to your new mortgage. If you’re disabled, you may qualify for partial or full exemption from property taxes (may not be available in all states).

EMERGENCY AID FOR HOMELESS VETERANS

Several local agencies work in tandem with the VA to provide housing vouchers and subsidized rents for vets who are already or in danger of becoming homeless. If you need this help now or fear you may need it in the future, contact your local VA Medical Center via: 877-424-3838. You can also access information and assistance by going to va.gov/homeless.

Again, we at BuyOwner.com, appreciate your service and hope to assist you to the best of our ability with your home ownership/leasing goals!

PAY ATTENTION BECAUSE YES YOUR CREDIT SCORE IS A BIG DEAL!

Nov05
2018 Written by mary.w

As anyone who’s applied for a credit card, a loan or a lease (not to mention a mortgage) can tell you, your credit rating matters. And while it’s important to remember that you can’t raise your score overnight, there are some steps you can take that will improve it over time. Consider these:

1. Always pay your bills on time. This factor carries a lot of weight in how your credit score is factored so don’t allow yourself to believe that being late once in a while doesn’t really matter because it really does! This essentially is what good credit is all about. When you’ve established yourself as someone who can consistently pay what you owe, you prove you are a responsible credit user. Also, the longer you’ve been paying on time, the better.

2. Pay down your debt. If you haven’t been paying your credit cards on time (thus the problem with your credit in the first place), the best way to repair the damage is also the simplest: pay down the debt! Simplest in getting results but this can seem impossible and overwhelming. Taking the time to do some reading and studying on what will be the best method for you to follow to reduce your debt will definitely pay off with a less stressed lifestyle and the ability to make life decisions such as buying a home with confidence.

3. Don’t apply for multiple cards at one time or within short spans of time. It’s a common misconception that having many cards = better credit. In reality, the key is establishing good credit over time, and that’s why it’s not smart to open lots of cards at once. Doing so may red flag your credit rating that you may be not handling your money well. Better to have only a couple of cards that you consistently pay on time or off monthly which will allow you to see credit increases on those cards which then in turn will show you are a low risk buyer.

4. Know the facts. Did you know paying off a collection account won’t take it off your report? Not for seven years. Did you also know closing unused credit cards can possibly lower your score? This can negatively change your debt to credit % causing your score to drop even though you, in essence are still a good risk. Knowing these things can make a difference in how you approach credit.

5. Check your reports. Want to know what your current credit report reveals? The Fair Credit Reporting Act requires three reporting agencies — Trans Union, Equifax, Trans Union and Experian—to provide you with an annual report, free of charge. For more information, click here. Most credit cards now offer free monthly or quarterly FICO scores that you can review online. This does not include your full report but does give you your score and what is positively or negatively affecting it. It also typically will notify you if there has been a change up or down in your score.

6. Dispute errors. One of the reasons it’s such a good idea to check your credit is that there may be errors affecting your score. When you check your annual reports, be prepared to dispute any incorrect items. If you receive a notification from one of your credit cards that your score has changed check it out immediately so you can get the problem resolved asap. This is especially important in the event your identity has been compromised.

So, yes, your credit score matters a lot if you want to be a homeowner but don’t stress. Instead become actively involved in improving your score and then maintaining it so there is a history of great progress and upkeep. Unlike what you might have heard, you can control your score. You just have to control your mind focus on getting it done!

 

Posted in Buying Tips, General Information, Tips and Ideas

WINTERIZE BEFORE THE FREEZE!

Oct29
2018 Written by mary.w

Yes, it’s only Autumn BUT winter is right around the corner so now is the time to make the necessary updates and repairs to make your home as energy efficient as possible before the winter heating bills add up. This is especially important if you’ve bought an older home because you love the charm and character but aren’t really sure how energy efficient it is or more importantly…isn’t! If you’re a seller putting your older home on the market, being able to show buyers that they won’t have to worry about exorbitant heating (or cooling for that matter) bills because of the updates you’ve made can make the difference between for sale and sold! And remember, just because your home is ‘newer’ does not mean it was built in the most energy efficient way. So whether your home is new or 100 years old, the following tips may benefit you.

  • Areas to check for leaks:  Of course you have the obvious…windows, doors, attic (rafters & windows), basement windows or concrete blocks but there are some spots you might never think of: electrical outlets on exterior walls, dryer vent, plumbing and ductwork at their point of entry, recessed can lights if the ceiling has attic or roof directly above, whole house fan and even your mail chute if it’s in your door or wall. If you’re in a freezing cold climate, make sure you cover and insulate your exterior water spigots to avoid pipes breaking inside your home. (I speak from experience, this is not a pleasant experience but an easy one to avoid!)
  • No sure if you have a leak? On a windy day, hold a match to the area (with necessary precautions) you’re checking and see if it stays lit or blows out. If it blows out, you have a leak.
  • Once you’ve determined where your leaks are located, simply choose the best method to resolve it: A great product that is easy to use and very effective is Flex Shot. (Again personal experience…I live in one of those 100 year old homes!) It is less messy than caulk, works as well as weather stripping and creates an immediate seal. There are inexpensive foam inserts that fit inside the outlets on your exterior walls that works like insulation to keep out the air.
  • Insulate your attic and basement exterior walls. You can also check and see if there is a shutter seal available for your type of whole house fan.
  • If you can’t afford to replace old windows or you love the charm of the original wavy glass so prevalent in century old homes, again, grab some Flex Shot (or similar easy to use waterproofing product) in either white or clear, whichever will match your trim the best, and seal around the outer edges of the trim and the interior edges around the glass.

If you take the time to do even a fraction of the tips above, you will see your heating bills in the winter and your cooling bills in the summer rival newer homes that don’t have anywhere close to the character of your own!!

Baby Boomer? Yes You Can Stay in Your Home!

Oct18
2018 Written by mary.w

So, you bought your home in 1980 for $50,000 and now it’s worth a whopping $400,000! Woo Hoo you’re living on easy street, right? Possibly not so much. Just because your home’s value has increased doesn’t mean that your costs of staying there and maintaining that home haven’t done the same. If you’re over 65 and living on a fixed income you may be actually struggling to make ends meet.

It’s actually true that for many Baby Boomers, their home’s equity is their only and most valuable asset. But what if you don’t want to move? What if you want to stay in the home where you raised your family and now enjoy watching your grandkids grow when they come to visit Grandma and Grandpa? There are a few options for you to explore, the best one for you being determined by your needs, wants and qualifications. Here are some options for you to investigate:

  • Home Equity Credit Lines
  • Refinancing Your Current Mortgage to Provide Yourself a Cushion Fund
  • Reverse Mortgages (currently new types and more flexible options than the original format you see on a lot of commercials)

Using one of these options means that once funded, you can use the money as you deem necessary: to pay for in home care, get that necessary new furnace or roof, home maintenance or lawn care (if you no longer can do these yourself), or to even just be able to do things for and with your grandkids.  For help deciding which might be best for you, talk with your financial advisor if you have one or contact the Federal Trade Commission either by phone or online and request information regarding the different options. Do your due diligence and then live in your home, your way so you can relax and enjoy your senior years!

Posted in General Information, Tips and Ideas

Update Your Kitchen & Baths w/One Simple Change

Oct11
2018 Written by mary.w

SINKS! They can look ordinary and blend into a Kitchen or Bath OR they can help define the space as updated, upgraded and fabulous! With all the big box stores and online shopping options, this can be done at a minimal cost.

Add Glamour and Eclecticity with a Vessel Sink. Styles vary enough to allow you to blend with your existing Bathroom decor. A simple fix for a stylish update!

v vessel index

Add Charm and a Country Feel w/a New Kitchen Farm Sink! Very Popular Styling!

th farmStainless is a great way to add Farm Charm into a more modern Kitchen. Porcelain goes great with more traditional wood cabinetry. Adding a high arc faucet instantly upgrades your look!

 

Clean and Stylish Stainless is Great in Both Under and Over Mount Styles. Undermount will cost more to install than Overmount.

ovooOvermount can be upgraded by switching to one bowl vs traditional two. Also very popular upgrade is to use the square shape vs traditional rounder bowls. Upgrade the more traditional two bowl sink by upgrading with a hi arc faucet.

Undermount sinks are more costly but will be worth the investment for a clean sleek look!

k 4

To further enhance this look, add a stylish high arc faucet. Many are available at big box stores at very reasonable prices.

 

Whatever style you choose, if you want to upgrade and update your Kitchen and/or Baths, while staying true to your budget, consider a new sink (and faucet)! Create a great updated look without exploding your budget!

Pros & Cons of Moving to a 55+ Active Adult Community

Oct08
2018 Written by mary.w

So, you’re thinking of retiring, downsizing or just trying a new adventure and you’ve heard that a 55+ community might be a great option. But is it right for you and your lifestyle? Let’s explore some pros and cons to help you decide.

Advantages of 55+ Active Adult Communities

  • Security is a common reason many people give for choosing to live in a 55+ community. Many are gated w/24 hour manned gated entry plus security patrols while others have unmanned yet still secure gated entry to the neighborhood.
  • The opportunity to meet other people in the same age group with common interests and enjoy an active social life is a huge draw to these communities.
  • A vast array of social activities within the community ie: golf, tennis, swimming, live theater, games (cards, board games, outdoor games such as bocce, horseshoes, etc) art classes, wine tastings, hobbies, book clubs and much more provide a constant ‘active’ lifestyle.
  • Very often lawn care, exterior home maintenance and security alarm systems are all included in the HOA fees.
  • Many housing options include single family homes, townhomes and condos, many with handicap accessible features.
  • Depending on where you live, many 55+ communities are very close to shopping, dining, entertainment and medical facilities. Plus many of these communities offer free transportation to all  these amenities.

Wow…right? Why wouldn’t everyone want to move right in?! Well, let’s review some reasons why this might not be the option for you.

Disadvantages of 55+ Active Adult Communities

  • Many people, even retired folks, love living in the diversity of a neighborhood consisting of all age groups from infants to elderly. The restrictions of a 55+ community most likely will very quickly override the positives listed above.
  • Many Active Adult Communities have strong restrictions with regard to adult children or grandchildren living with them or even in some cases restrictions on extended visits. It’s important to completely understand these bylaws before buying and moving into an age restricted community.
  • If you’re in your 50’s or 60’s you might not be happy in a community that caters more to retirees in their 70’s, 80’s or older. Do your homework before you buy!
  • One of the biggest disadvantages of many 55+ communities is that, due to the vast level of amenities, the HOA fee might be very high. If you’re only interested in one of two of the activities offered, you might want to consider either a different community or a regular neighborhood otherwise you may end up spending a lot of your savings on activities you never use.

So, is a 55+ Active Adult Community a good option for you? Only you can decide. What’s good for your close friend might be a horrible choice for you. Explore fully what the communities you’re considering offer and determine if they will enhance or inhibit your desired lifestyle. Then move forward with confidence into the next phase of your life journey!

Posted in Buying Tips, General Information

The Season Has Changed So Update Your Strategy!

Sep23
2018 Written by mary.w

Today is the week of Autumn. If your home has been on the market through the summer, here are some simple steps you can take to bring your marketing campaign into the new season.

  • Pull up the remainder of your dying summer flowers and replace with autumn specific plants or plantings such as mums, sunflowers, autumn crocus, goldenrod and others (do an online search for autumn blooms for your specific area). Mums are an inexpensive option in small, medium and large containers for quick landscaping changes at a minimal cost.
  • If you home is wrapped in fall colors and landscapes, update your photos highlight the season.
  • Use pumpkins or squash varieties to create autumn displays near your entryway. BUT Don’t go over board and create such a massive display that it’s all your buyers can see.Image result for Fall Decorating Ideas
  • On a tight budget? The Dollar Tree or other such stores have a wide variety of items you can use to create season specific decor without breaking your bank.
  • Change the wreath on your front door to more fall specific color tones than what you may have had on there for summer (or spring if you never changed it in June…wink wink).
  • Put pumpkin scented waxes or candles around your home to update your aroma to a scent that reminds everyone of the fall and thanksgiving.
  • Having an open house? Instead of putting out chocolate chip cookies, replace them with pumpkin spice yummies instead.
  • Aromas have a very strong effect on people so put a pot of simmering hot apple cider with cinnamon sticks on the stove. Feels like coming home!

Key: Try to avoid being holiday specific such as halloween or thanksgiving decorations. Promote the season not the holiday.  Keep your advertising Image result for Fall Decorating Ideascurrent but NOT overwhelming to reap maximum results.

Posted in General Information, Selling Tips, Tips and Ideas
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Founded in 1984, BuyOwner.com® is the leading provider of real estate marketing services. We pioneered the "For Sale by Owner" (FSBO) market, which today represents over 20 percent of all residential real estate transactions.

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