Protecting Your Home from Disasters

                                                   Protecting Your Home from Disasters

A natural disaster such as a flood, hurricane, tornado, or fire can make a home more difficult to sell, especially in a buyer’s market. Homeowners can’t completely remove the risk disasters pose, but they can take certain steps to protect their homes. Whether you plan to sell your home in the future or not, use these tips to protect the value of your home:

1.     Follow basic fire safety recommendations. Smoke and flames can create lingering problems in homes. To reduce the risk of a minor or major fire, install smoke detectors throughout the house and test them once a month. Keep in-date fire extinguishers around common fire hazards including your kitchen, and laundry room.

Monitor lit candles closely, and never place them near flammable materials or where someone could easily knock them over. Teach your children to safely handle matches, candles, and other fire-related objects.

2.     Maintain adequate homeowner’s insurance coverage. If a disaster does strike, your policy will determine how much support you receive after the fact. You may want to consider a flood policy if you live in a flood-prone area, because most standard homeowner’s policies do not cover flood damage. Read the fine print and ask questions. The right level of insurance can protect your home’s value in the wake of a disaster.

3.     Recognize your home’s vulnerabilities. The FLASH (Federal Alliance for Safe Homes) website features an interactive map to help homeowners understand the major risks in their states. Use historic weather information and forecasts to arm your home against serious storms.

Invest in risk-minimizing upgrades such as storm shutters to reduce the likelihood of damage related to high winds and hail. If you need to replace siding, roofing, or garage doors, choose storm-resistant materials. Consider applying additional waterproofing substances and moisture barriers in low-lying areas such as basements to reduce flood damage.

4.     Remove external hazards. Tall trees often pose a threat to homes during heavy snowfalls and high winds. Work with certified arborists to prune or remove hazardous trees. If you live in an area prone to wildfires, regularly remove dead leaves, dry grasses, and other flammable materials from the area around your home.

Prepare for the most likely disasters before they strike, so you can focus on your and your family’s safety when the time comes. With these tips, your home may avoid some or all the damage associated with disasters.

If your home does suffer harm in a disaster, remember to document all the damage and your repair work. Documentation can go a long way to protect the value of your home. 

What You Need to Know About Getting a Mortgage

                                  What You Need to Know About Getting a Mortgage

 

Not many potential homeowners can pay cash for their new home. Most home buyers need to take out a mortgage, a loan for the specific purpose of buying a home. Usually about 80 percent of the home’s value is borrowed, and this is known as the beginning principal. Other fees associated with the mortgage include taxes, interest, and mortgage insurance. Mortgages involve large sums of money and can be tricky to navigate, especially for first-time home buyers. Making yourself familiar with the ins and outs of obtaining a mortgage can help you in the lending process.

 

Your Credit Score Matters

Credit scores show the responsibility and reliability of the consumer. A good credit score can help you get the best rates possible for your mortgage. If your credit score falls below 620, you could get penalized with higher interest rates or, in some cases, not get a loan at all. Check on your credit score prior to applying for a mortgage and do what you can to repair the score. Limit your credit card usage and pay off any excess debt if possible.

Find a Reputable Lender

Although most mortgage lenders are trustworthy and dependable, some may try to trick you. It is important to shop around before committing to a lender. First of all, compare rates of different lenders to determine the best deal. Ask questions about the lending process to get a feel for the personality of the lender. Always read the fine print before signing anything; you could be signing off on hidden fees. If you don’t understand everything about your mortgage papers, have them looked over by a professional.

Get Pre-Approval

There are two major benefits to mortgage pre-approval. Pre-approval gives you an idea of how much you can afford before beginning your home search. Without pre-approval, you could get deep into the buying process only to find out it is well beyond your financial limits, which would be unfortunate for both you and the hopeful seller. Having mortgage pre-approval gives you more bargaining power over other potential buyers if you are not the only one interested in a home. With pre-approval, you could potentially lower the asking price.

 

Applying for a mortgage can seem like an intimidating process, but with the right information and honest people working on your side, it is just one more exciting step toward home ownership. Keep your credit score in check before beginning the mortgage search, do your research before settling on a lender, and get a pre-approval letter before making an offer on a home. These steps can greatly help you in the search for your dream home.

How the Housing Marketing Is Improving

                                   

                                            How the Housing Marketing Is Improving

Americans are growing more confident in the state of the economy and the housing market. Many of the responders in a Berkshire Hathaway Homeowner Sentiment Survey reported they are satisfied with the economy, and that its health contributed towards their real estate decisions. There are many factors contributing to the increase in confidence.

Employment Rates Are Up

           

Unemployment numbers have been steadily decreasing, indicating that more people are securing and keeping their jobs. American tax payers have also claimed their income is higher than a year ago. These factors allow new home buyers to feel secure financially and establish confidence in the housing market.

Lower Delinquencies and Foreclosures

The recent HUD National Housing Market Summary shows that loan delinquencies and home foreclosures are lowering. The numbers reported in this summary show the lowest rates in these areas since 2007, resulting in mortgage companies building more confidence in buyers. This confidence from the mortgage companies gives future buyers a better chance of obtaining a loan and purchasing a new home.

More New Construction Communities

When the housing market is succeeding, the new construction industry benefits as well. Builders can bet their homes will sell in a successful market, and they will look to invest their resources accordingly. The new construction industry likewise offers more jobs to the community, improving the overall economy.

Millennial homebuyers have reported they would prefer to wait for a home that meets their needs instead of trying to fix one up. This benefits the new construction market since these buyers are likely willing to build the perfect home from scratch. When this industry is flourishing, the overall outlook for the housing market improves, developing a cycle of confidence.

Higher Mortgage Rates

Although Americans have greater confidence in the housing market, they are concerned with rising mortgage rates, which can be daunting. Mortgage rates typically rise when income levels and the housing market improve. A higher rate can increase the price of a home, but it should not cause much concern as a higher income should justify the investment. Lower home prices or mortgage rates are not good signs for the housing market since these trends signify fewer people are buying.

Confidence Gives Buyers Options

The growing confidence in the housing market gives buyers a chance for more options in their home purchase. Home buyers are taking more time to decide on the right home and location since they feel confident the right home for them is within their reach. The current housing climate is the perfect environment for talented real estate agents to make their mark, as plenty of new homebuyers look to find the ideal match.

6 Tips for a Stress-free Move

                                                         6 Tips for a Stress-free Move

Moving can be very stressful. Packing up your family’s life and moving it to a new location takes planning, time, and effort.  Instead of being stressed about the move, get yourself organized so you can be excited about the new home and opportunities for your family.

Here are six tips to make a move to a new home easier:

1. Make a List

Write down everything you will be moving. This record system allows you to place items in numbered boxes and write down the content of every box. When you get to your new home, you will be grateful to know exactly where everything is and which room to put each box in.

2. Use Clear Bins

Purchase a couple of clear plastic bins to use for the most important items. These items are things you will need first in the move like paper towels, trash bags, necessary cookware, phone chargers, and tools. The clear bin will stand out in the sea of cardboard boxes and allow you to get the items you need quickly.

3. Pre-Clean the Home

If possible, go to your new home early for a quick touch-up in the kitchen area and bathroom(s). These tasks can be tedious on moving day and having the home pre-cleaned will allow you to start unpacking right away. Stock up the cleaning supplies and toiletries ahead of time, so there is no stress in finding these items.

4. Hire Movers for the Valuables

It can be cost effective to ask your friends and family to help you move, however, if you are transporting heavy, valuable furniture, you may want to consider hiring a mover. They have experience moving these types of items and can lower your risk of damaging anything important. If they do, they are insured and can pay for it.

5. Donation Pickup

Arrange for pickup if you have items you are planning to donate to charity. Most charities are willing to come to your home to pick up the items, especially if you are donating large pieces of furniture. This saves you the trouble of figuring out how to get these pieces there.

6. Clean out the Fridge

Buy your last set of groceries at least two weeks before the move. This is the time to get creative with your cooking and use up any items in the fridge that won’t last the move. The less waste you have to worry about throwing out before the move, the better.

A move is a challenge, but there are ways to ensure it’s less of a hassle. Keep these tips in mind for a stress-free transition.

How the Housing Market Is Improving

                               

                                       How the Housing Market Is Improving

Americans are growing more confident in the state of the economy and the housing market. Many of the responders in a Berkshire Hathaway Homeowner Sentiment Survey reported they are satisfied with the economy, and that its health contributed towards their real estate decisions. There are many factors contributing to the increase in confidence.

Employment Rates Are Up

           

Unemployment numbers have been steadily decreasing, indicating that more people are securing and keeping their jobs. American tax payers have also claimed their income is higher than a year ago. These factors allow new home buyers to feel secure financially and establish confidence in the housing market.

Lower Delinquencies and Foreclosures

The recent HUD National Housing Market Summary shows that loan delinquencies and home foreclosures are lowering. The numbers reported in this summary show the lowest rates in these areas since 2007, resulting in mortgage companies building more confidence in buyers. This confidence from the mortgage companies gives future buyers a better chance of obtaining a loan and purchasing a new home.

More New Construction Communities

When the housing market is succeeding, the new construction industry benefits as well. Builders can bet their homes will sell in a successful market, and they will look to invest their resources accordingly. The new construction industry likewise offers more jobs to the community, improving the overall economy.

Millennial homebuyers have reported they would prefer to wait for a home that meets their needs instead of trying to fix one up. This benefits the new construction market since these buyers are likely willing to build the perfect home from scratch. When this industry is flourishing, the overall outlook for the housing market improves, developing a cycle of confidence.

Higher Mortgage Rates

Although Americans have greater confidence in the housing market, they are concerned with rising mortgage rates, which can be daunting. Mortgage rates typically rise when income levels and the housing market improve. A higher rate can increase the price of a home, but it should not cause much concern as a higher income should justify the investment. Lower home prices or mortgage rates are not good signs for the housing market since these trends signify fewer people are buying.

Confidence Gives Buyers Options

The growing confidence in the housing market gives buyers a chance for more options in their home purchase. Home buyers are taking more time to decide on the right home and location since they feel confident the right home for them is within their reach. The current housing climate is the perfect environment for talented real estate agents to make their mark, as plenty of new homebuyers look to find the ideal match.

Upgrades that Actually Add Value to Your House

                                      Upgrades that Actually Add Value to Your House

 

In recent years, the state of the real estate market has made it harder for homeowners to put their house on the market. Afraid of sales falling through or paying hefty fees with no results, many decide to stay put in hopes their house will be more desirable down the road. Whether or not you are planning on selling your home soon, adding a few upgrades can increase the curb appeal and market value of your home. Try out some value-boosting upgrades that really do work!

 

Add a Fresh Coat of Paint

If you are looking for a quick fix on a small budget, fresh paint can markedly improve the appearance of your home. A new coat of paint can cover up dirt and grime for a fresh look and make your house look newer. Pick light, neutral colors over bold ones to appeal to a wider market. Giving wood trim and doors a touch-up with stain can have the same effect. Consider painting the outside of the home as well, if you have paintable siding, as your home’s exterior makes the first impression on potential buyers.

Install Energy-Efficient Fixtures and Appliances

 Energy-efficient components range in price, but they are all worth the investment. They can help you save money on energy bills now, and increase the amount you could get when selling your home. Start small with energy-efficient CFL or LED lightbulbs and low-flow faucets and shower heads. If you are willing to spend a bit more, look for Energy Star appliances like dishwashers, ovens, and refrigerators. Not only will all of these upgrades help with energy efficiency, they can also make your home look more modern.

 

Remodel the Kitchen

 Kitchen remodels can cost a pretty penny, but they can improve the value and desirability of a home a great deal. HGTV estimates you can gain 60 to 120 percent of your investment back from a kitchen remodel. Make sure the style of the kitchen remodel goes along with the aesthetic of the home. For example, a rustic ranch home should not have a contemporary-style kitchen. This may disappoint or confuse potential buyers looking for continuity. Consider the practicality of the kitchen layout, as well. A hard-to-reach microwave or awkwardly placed sink could deter otherwise interested buyers.

 Try some or all of these upgrades and see what effect they have on the interest your home gets on the market. Ask your real estate agent for further advice about popular remodel trends in your area.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What to Consider with a Real Estate Investment

                                       What to Consider with a Real Estate Investment

 

Investing in real estate is a very exciting and fulfilling decision, but there are some things to consider when you’re making plans for your money. Here’s what you need to keep in mind.

 

Location of the Property

 

You’ve probably heard a thousand times that location is the most important part of buying property. Well, the old expression isn’t wrong. Even the most beautiful and modern home in the world wouldn’t be worth a fraction of its potential if it’s in the wrong neighborhood. When you’re looking to invest, think carefully about the area you’re choosing.

 

Are you close to entertainment, shopping, and interstates? Is there a big tourist attraction nearby such as a raceway, state park, or beach? The closer the property is to “civilization,” the more value it’s going to have.

 

Other homes near your property can have a big impact, too. If your home is near college rentals where there is little upkeep, it will reflect poorly on your home. This can be especially crucial if you plan to flip a home. You can never get a proper return on your investment – or your sweat equity – if you put a lot of money in a home that’s too expensive for the neighborhood.

 

Appraised Value

 

Even if the property you’re looking at has endless potential, the actual appraisal value is very important, primarily because this number is what’s going to determine your financing options. Remember, you should always be able to keep the purchase price and renovation cost at or below your total budget (which should be less than the finished appraisal price). Many investors make the mistake of putting too much into renovations and cut down on their own profits.

 

Investment Purpose

 

Be clear about what you intend to do with the property before you purchase it. Your budget and timeline will all depend on your end goal. Regardless of whether you’re going to use it yourself, rent it, lease it, sell it in the short term, or sell it in the long term, you must make a decision from the outset.

 

The Numbers

 

The actual cost and profit margins are crucial. Once you have everything else lined up, you still need to make sure the risk is reasonable before you sign anything. Carefully consider all your numbers and make sure you leave some wiggle room for unpleasant surprises. If it won’t work, don’t force it. It’s better to wait for the right opportunity than risk your financial future now.

Understanding Gen-X Homebuyers

                          
                             

                                               Understanding Gen-X Homebuyers

The housing crash was extremely detrimental to the U.S. economy. Years later, many areas of the country are still feeling the effects. Our renowned persistence is beginning to pay off, though. People are beginning to buy and sell again, often at the best rates since the crash. The group making the biggest comeback is the very one that was hit hardest during the crash – generation X.

 

Why the Crash Hit Gen-X Hard

Most Gen-Xers had been homeowners for about 10 years when the housing market crashed. Ten years is the amount of time the average person will keep a home, so many of these individuals were trying to recoup their investments right before home values fell. As the crash happened, they were not only unable to sell their homes, they also had greatly diminished equity, effectively costing them multiple thousands in lost investment. Some were forced to sell their homes at rock bottom prices while others couldn’t sell at all. Those people either had to stay where they were or face foreclosure.  

 

Making a Comeback

Fortunately, the economic turnaround has been strong. Lawrence Run, chief economist for the National Association of Realtors, explains that the total rise in home values since 2011 has been more than 41 percent. He also noted that the steady incline has gone a long way to help enough people build equity and trade up to a better home.

 

In recent years, millennials have made up the bulk of home sales at around 34 percent. They were largely too young to be affected by the housing crash, meaning they didn’t have to make up ground, which left them open to purchase more quickly, and, in turn, the market has evolved to appeal to them more.

 

Gen-X homebuyers aren’t quitting. In 2014, they accounted for 28 percent of the market. That’s only 2 percent behind baby boomers, who sat at 30. It’s becoming a much closer race, which means the market will need to become more equalized rather than specialized.

 

The biggest problem with Gen-X and homeownership is student loans. On average, they carry $5,000 more in loans than millennials, totaling $30,000 and $25,000, respectively. This debt makes it hard for both generations to save up for down payments or home upgrades.

 

Everyone felt pangs from the depressed housing market to some degree, and Gen-Xers in particular will be gun-shy about jumping back into the real estate market, but better numbers mean positive changes throughout the industry. Expect more people to expand their home ownership opportunities in the current, thriving market.

 

Spring Cleaning for a Healthier Home

                            

                                              Spring Cleaning for a Healthier Home

 

As the weather warms up, many of us find ourselves motivated to freshen up our homes. Spring cleaning isn’t just good for appearances. You can turn your house into a healthier home by following these easy tips.

 

Update the Insulation

 

If you have an older home, it’s almost impossible to know exactly what kind of insulation is hiding in your walls. Many types are inefficient or unhealthy and you should replace them. The first step is to have a professional examine your existing insulation. They’ll be able to determine what sort of insulation your home has without exposing you to anything harmful, like asbestos.

 

There’s another benefit to replacing your insulation beyond safety – savings. New insulation can dramatically reduce your monthly power bill. The savings can pay for the installation quickly. Plus, updated insulation will draw buyers and make it easier to get top dollar for your home, should you decide to sell.

 

Order a Mold Inspection

 

The problem with mold is that for most of us, out of sight equals out of mind. Many homeowners don’t even consider mold a problem until it’s already visible. Instead of waiting to see it, hire a professional to check your home for mold. Not only will it keep your family safer, it will be less expensive to eliminate the problem early versus when it gets out of hand.

 

Choose Excellent Paints

 

Many homeowners repaint during the spring. This is a great way to add a personal touch to your space and increase your home’s value, but you need to be careful about what kinds of paint you use. Paints and stains account for as much as 9 percent of volatile organic compound emissions every year, according to the EPA. Select low-VOC varieties to minimize the harmful chemicals in your home.

 

Take Off Your Shoes

 

Shoes harbor lots of harmful bacteria in addition to dirt and debris. Though you can sweep and mop some of it away, some bacteria can stick around carpets. Wearing shoes inside your home spreads outdoor contaminants throughout it. Always take off your shoes in the entryway or mudroom to contain dirt and keep your house clean.

 

Add Green

 

Live plants serve double duty by brightening your space and purifying the air. Certain plants will remove chemicals (like formaldehydes) from your indoor environment. Some plants, like aloe vera, also have other convenient uses like treating burns and small cuts. Make sure you choose plant varieties that aren’t toxic to your pets.

 

 

Four Benefits of Owning a Home

                  

                                                      Four Benefits of Owning a Home

Most people understandably dream of owning a home at some point in their lives. Owning a home represents a major life milestone and one of the biggest measures of success. Personal reasons aside, there are also plenty of financial reasons why it’s great to be a homeowner. If you’re considering making a purchase on a home or property, here are four of the biggest benefits that may convince you to take the leap:

1.     Owning a Home Builds Wealth Over Time

The 2008 financial crisis shook everyone’s confidence in home buying, but now that the market is recovering, ownership is again a financially wise decision that will help you build wealth over time. Mortgage payments are lower than rent payments for the same property value, so you get more bang for your buck through ownership. However, you should always make sure that you’re buying a home you can afford, and that you have a solid plan in place to pay your mortgage.

1.     Having a Mortgage Offers Tax Benefits

The mortgage deduction permits homeowners to deduct mortgage interest from their tax obligations if they itemize their returns. This is a major benefit for a lot of people, and it can be a big deduction. It’s also a great benefit early in the life of the loan, when interest is a large part of your mortgage payment.

2.     A Mortgage Helps You Save Money

Forbes explains that having a mortgage is like having a forced savings plan. Every month you pay your mortgage, you are building equity in your home. This can be a great thing, especially if money is tight elsewhere.

3.     In the Long Term, Buying is More Cost Efficient Than Renting

Owning a home is one of the best ways to invest in yourself and your future. Not only is there more value in ownership than in renting, considering equity opportunities, there is built-in flexibility regarding your long-term financial decisions. Homes tend to increase in value over time, and you are paying down your mortgage over time, so you have the option to sell a few years down the line and make a clean and easy profit. You can rent your home or a portion of it to someone else and make a monthly profit while reducing your costs.

Home ownership is a huge endeavor and responsibility with the potential to provide plenty of benefits. If you are ready to take the plunge, home ownership represents a relatively low-risk investment that affords plenty of opportunity for wealth building and financial flexibility.

Let us help you make your new investment! www.Evacoproperties.com

Tennessee Offers New Financial Aid for Homeowners

                                             

                               Tennessee Offers New Financial Aid for Homeowners

 

In some areas of Tennessee, the effects of the recession continue to linger into 2017. In particular, residents in 55 zip codes across the state live in “hardest hit” areas. In early February, the Tennessee Housing Development Agency (THDA) announced a new down payment assistance program for people purchasing homes in the participating areas.

 

About the HHF-DPA Program

The Hardest Hit Fund Down Payment Assistance (HHF-DPA) program allows home buyers in each of the 55 zip codes across 30 Tennessee counties who qualify for a Great Choice Home loan to apply for financial aid. If eligible, the program will provide $15,000 for the home buyer to use toward the home’s down payment and closing expenses.

Considered a second mortgage, the state will provide the second loan with no interest and no monthly payments. The loan features a 10-year term. If you move, sell, or refinance within five years of purchase, you must repay the full $15,000. At six years, you must repay $12,000 of the loan, and the amount incrementally decreases each year thereafter. If you stay in your home for the full 10 years after purchase, the state will forgive the entire amount.

According to news reports, the program could provide assistance to approximately 4,000 prospective homebuyers in the state. The Tennessee Housing Development Agency’s executive director’s long-term goal for the program is to facilitate home ownership and stabilize property values in the hardest hit areas for the future.

 

Qualifying for the HHF-DPA Program

Not everyone will qualify for this unique grant program. If you are considering purchasing a home for the first time or buying a new home, you must meet the following conditions to receive the no-interest, no-monthly payments second mortgage loan:

·       You must qualify for a Great Choice Home Loan first. You must demonstrate a credit score of at least 640, meet income limits based on your household size and county, and purchase a home that does not cost more than the maximum limits covered by the program.

 

·       You must live in one of the 55 zip codes outlined in the program. The program extends to western, middle, and eastern portions of the state.

 

·       You must complete pre-purchase and post-purchase educational classes. The program offers online and in-person classes to help home buyers meet this standard.

 

·       You cannot build your home. New construction projects are excluded from the program. Only existing homes qualify.

 

Additional terms and conditions may apply. Those who are interested in learning more about the program, available listings, and eligibility requirements can reach out to a program-approved real estate agent or lender for additional support. For certain Tennessee residents, purchasing a new home just got a little easier.

 

 

    

  Should You Buy or Rent Your Next Property? 

Housing markets across the nation are picking up, and there are many more buyers on the market now than there were in years past. When you’re preparing to search for your next place to live, one of the biggest decisions to make is whether you should buy or rent. This debate is one of the biggest dilemmas people face when moving to a new location. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

How Are Your Finances?

Buying a home is expensive, and it can include more costs than you might initially think. If you want to buy, make sure you understand and can cover all the expenses, including the down payment and closing costs.


There are many great programs avail for first- time buyers with as little as one percent down. There are even some government state programs that offer down payment assistance! There are also some banks will also want anywhere from 1 to at least 20 percent of the purchase price as your down payment. If this is too much for your wallet to handle, renting may be the better option. It will all depend on a few factors.

What Is Your Employment Situation?

You should have a stable job if you intend to purchase a home. Lenders care about current income as well as the reliability of that income in the future. If you’re in danger of a layoff, or you might be looking for a new job soon, this may not be the time to buy a home. Focus on saving money and securing your next position so that when the time comes, you’ll be ready.

What Is Your Long-Term Plan?

Since buying a house is so expensive, you’ll want to live there for a while or rent the space to someone else. Either way, you’ll need to know exactly what you plan to do. If your plan is only set for the next few years, you’ll want to consider renting. However, if you’re ready to put down roots and start a family or begin a career in real estate management, buying a home is probably best for you.

Are You Prepared for the Responsibility?

There are plenty of financial benefits of owning a home. For example, a homeowner can build equity into his or her home. There are also financial responsibilities to consider, including taxes, maintenance, insurance costs, and liability if you decide to lease your property to someone else.

You shouldn’t make the decision to rent or buy lightly. If you are ready to buy, make sure the location makes financial sense. Many other variables go with homeownership and many of them cost money. Discuss your plans and options with your family and a financial advisor to make sure you are taking the right steps.

Whatever your plan may be, feel free to give us a call to discuss your options! We are able, ready and willing to help you!

www.evacoproperties.com

What is the REALTOR® Good Works Foundation?

                                  REALTOR® Good Works Foundation

Evaco is a proud sponsor of the next YPN mixer at Arrington Vineyards in Franklin, TN. All funds obtained will go to the Good Works Foundation.

The REALTOR® Good Works Foundation (RGWF) is the philanthropic arm of WCAR. This organization raises thousands of dollars annually to support local non-profits, provide scholarships to graduating seniors and promote fine arts education in Williamson County Schools. Fundraisers throughout the year, including silent auctions and a golf tournament, provide the main sources of funding for the RGWF.

For more information, feel free to reach our office. www.Evacoproperties.com

Five Reasons You Should Stage a Home

                                             Five Reasons You Should Stage a Home

When you put your home on the market, you want it to sell quickly and for the best price possible. This can be difficult to do, especially given the tough housing market in many parts of the United States. One affordable option that can help you sell your house is to stage your home. Staging makes a home look more polished and can increase resale value. Here are five key points to remember when you think about staging your home to sell it:

1.     Staging Secures the Highest Price from Buyers

The point of staging a home is to present it to buyers in the best possible light. As they say, you don’t get a second chance to make a first impression. Impressing buyers right away will increase demand for your home and will in turn lead to you getting the best offers possible.

2. Staging Gives You a Head Start on Packing

When you’re planning to move, you have to pack all your personal belongings eventually, so why not get a head start? When staging a home, the goal is to remove all clutter and provide a clean, simple look. Efficiently staging your home will help make sure that all your personal belongings are safe and ready to move immediately once your home sells.

3. Staging Makes Your Home Seem Bigger

The larger you can make your home feel, the better. Buyers will think they are getting a lot more space for their money. Homes with more clutter or an abundance of furniture tend to feel cramped, while those with minimalist styles feel open. The more space your home appears to have, the more buyers it will attract.

4. Staging Helps Buyers Imagine Themselves Living in Your Home

When buyers are shopping for a new home, they want to imagine themselves living in it. This can be difficult for them if there are photos of other people’s families or personal belongings all over the house. Removing these items helps buyers feel more at home.

5. Staging Helps You Beat the Competition

If there are more houses than buyers in your market, it’s critical to think and plan competitively. Staging your home before you list it can help you do that. Staging your home and providing an optimal display of your property before you try to sell it will give your house the appearance of better value and help you sell faster than your neighbors.