Home > Blog >Homebuyer's Handbook: How to Assess a Potential Home Property Purchase

Buying a home is a huge investment, and it needs to be approached with a clear idea of what features to look for in a great property. Just as importantly, it's wise to be alert to any potential problems that could quickly induce buyer's regret, and here are some of the key points to look out for when considering any particular home.

Curb Appeal Vs. Real Value: Don't Be Fooled

First impressions can count for a lot, but it's crucial to differentiate between a home's curb appeal and its true value. Curb appeal focuses on exterior qualities such as landscaping or a fresh coat of paint, but the real worth of a home is decided more firmly by construction quality, age, size, and overall condition.

It's easy for appealing looks to mask serious structural issues or general overpricing, so buyers must delve deeper than what meets the eye. On the flip side, if even basic curb appeal is lacking, it's fair to assume that other, more serious problems are likely to be lying undiscovered.

Evaluating the Neighborhood: What to Think About

Before considering the state of the building itself, it's important to take a hard look at the neighborhood it's situated in. The community a house is surrounded by contributes significantly to your living experience and also impacts a property's value over time - if a home seems like an amazing bargain, it could be that neighborhood problems are suppressing its value.

Crime rates and local safety are vital factors when evaluating a locality. High crime rates can pose a direct threat to your safety and will also affect property value adversely. It's therefore sensible to check local statistics or talk with potential neighbors to gauge safety levels.

Neighboring properties also offer valuable insights. A neighborhood with well-maintained homes suggests a strong community spirit with residents taking pride in their living environment. By contrast, noticeable neglect could be a sign of potential neighborhood issues that you might not discover until it's too late.

The general ambiance of the neighborhood, including typical noise levels, is another factor worth assessing. While a bustling environment may appeal to some, others might prefer tranquility. Making multiple visits at different times of day and different days of the week can provide a clearer picture of what to expect.

Further, the quality of schools in the vicinity is a fundamental element that can affect a home's value even if you don't have school-going children yourself. Generally, properties situated near reputable schools hold their value better and will be easier to sell in the future.

Lastly, it's important to consider neighborhood zoning laws and potential future developments. Planned infrastructure projects or zoning modifications can either boost your property's value or push it down, so check with local city or county planning offices for any upcoming developments.

Understanding Potential Structural Issues in a Home

Structural concerns play a central role in any home-buying decision, but what should you be looking for? Visible fissures and cracks in the walls, floors, and ceilings can be indicators of severe structural problems. Although minor cracks might be due to natural settling, larger ones could point towards foundation damage that could spell long-term deterioration. In particular, horizontal cracks in the basement walls or large angular cracks that appear to run from the ground upward should be a cause for real concern.

Uneven floors, doors and windows that won't shut properly, and gaps around window frames or exterior doors can also be symptoms of foundation problems. These issues should be taken seriously as repairing foundation defects can be ruinously expensive or even impossible to realistically fix.

If you're at all unsure about any aspect of a home's structure or condition, the input of a professional home inspector is indispensable during the home-buying process. Their detailed evaluation can flag potential issues and provide a much more accurate picture of the home's structural health than a simple check with an amateur eye.

Damp and Water Damage: Key Indicators

Other insidious problems that can severely affect a home are damp and water damage, and finding these early on can prevent health hazards and expensive repairs down the line. Discolored patches on walls or ceilings, a persistent musty odor of mold, or swollen woodwork could all indicate water seepage into the home. This might originate from leaks in the internal plumbing system, or from exterior cracks and damage allowing rain to get in.

The basements or crawlspaces of a home are often most susceptible to water intrusion because of their nearness to the ground. Damp spots, staining, or even standing water in these areas could indicate a serious issue, but even minor signs of water damage should be investigated thoroughly before moving ahead with the buying process.

Conclusion

For all these points, remember that buying a home is much more than just a financial transaction. It's about ensuring a safe and comfortable haven for families to make happy memories in, and it should be a purchase you'll be happy with for years to come. Be aware of what to look for during your first assessments of a potential home and you'll have a much greater chance of home-buying success and long-term contentment.

About MainLineHomes.com

At www.mainlinehomes.com, we love working with home buyers! Whether you are a first-time home buyer or someone who has bought and sold real estate multiple times in the past, we will take the time to listen to you, understand your needs, and help you achieve your goals. We leverage the latest industry technologies to enable up-to-the-minute tracking of market listings, enabling our clients access to newly listed homes as soon as they hit the market. Janis Peterson is an Accredited Buyer Representative (ABR), and Buyer Agent representation is available. Janis Peterson has been helping Main Line home Buyers since 1994. Areas in which she specializes include Montgomery County,  Delaware County, and Chester County PA, Pennsylvania. Contact Janis at Tel: 610-642-3744 or e-mail her at janis@mainlinehomes.com. Let Janis help you find your new home. Let’s get started!

Janis Peterson, REALTOR®, GRI, ABR, SRES, CSP
Main Line Philadelphia Homes Real Estate
Montgomery, Delaware, Chester County

Keller Williams Main Line
Suburban Square
6 Coulter Ave 
Ardmore, PA 19003 
Tel: 610-642-3744
Janis@mainlinehomes.com

www.mainlinehomes.com/buying/

www.mainlinehomes.com/blog/

Janis@mainlinehomes.com

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Home > Blog > 10 Things to Do Before Listing Your House for Sale

10 Things to Do Before Listing Your House for Sale

Are you getting ready to sell your home? If so, there are a few things you should do before you list it. By preparing your home for sale and making sure it's in good condition, you can help ensure that it sells quickly and for the best price. Here are ten things to do before listing your home.

One: Repair Any Damage that Needs to Be Fixed

Before you list your house, it's in your best interest to make sure that everything is in good condition and properly functioning. That means you should fix any damage that needs to be fixed, whether it's a broken window or a hole in the wall. There are a few reasons for this.

First, you'll be required to sign a full disclosure agreement about anything broken or in need of repair, so it's best to be proactive and make repairs first.

Second, the house will be inspected before the sale can be finalized. If there's any damage that you haven't fixed, it'll have to be done before the sale is finalized.

Third, if a buyer can't see past a damaged feature or a broken feature, they may not want to buy your house even though everything else is in good condition. By fixing obvious problems like leaky faucets or non-working appliances, you make sure that prospective buyers don't get stuck on small issues and overlook the bigger picture.

Two: Declutter

Decluttering serves dual purposes - it gets you prepared for your upcoming move and also gets the house ready for showings.

Get rid of anything you don't need. This is a great time to think about having a yard sale or donating to charity.

Focus on one room at a time. In each room, identify the things you don't use or need and make a pile. You can organize these piles into three categories:

Keep - place in a box to take with you when you move

Donate - sort through your donate pile for anything that could be passed along to others in need

Trash or Recycle - anything that's broken or damaged is trash. Anything that's clothing or items that someone else might find useful goes into a recycle bin.

Decluttering also applies to furniture, such as unused desks, china cabinets, hutches, over-stuffed chairs, extra dining room chairs, and other bulky items that might make a room feel smaller and darker than it actually is.

It also applies to the yard. Pick up any toys, bikes, put away lawn furniture, roll up hoses, and make sure there's no clutter around the outside of your house.

Three: Depersonalize

Now that you've done some decluttering, it's time to get rid of any personal touches. Remove all family photos, books, collectibles, wall art, religious statements, and other things that make the house uniquely yours. Buyers need to be able to envision themselves in your home, so this is important for them as well as helping the house sell quickly.

Four: Deep Clean

You can do this yourself or consider outsourcing the job, but the house has to be scrubbed and polished from top to bottom. This includes sinks, bathtubs, showers, toilets, air vents, baseboards, cabinets and drawers, countertops, appliances, and more.

If there are carpets, shampoo them. If they're stained or torn, replace them.

Consider adding a fresh coat of paint to the interior walls for an extra burst of clean and new.

Five: Find the Best Seller's Agent

A good real estate agent can make a huge difference in how quickly your house sells and for how much.

Get referrals from friends, family members, co-workers, and neighbors for the best agents in your area. Make sure they're on top of current market values and trends, especially if you want to sell quickly. A good agent will also tell you what you need to do before putting your house up for sale (like staging your house for sale).

Six: Stage Your House

Your agent will do a walkthrough of your property with you and will take note of any tasks or projects that may increase the value of your home, such as updating the landscaping or replacing window screens.

Your agent can also advise you on simple ways to stage your house for sale, which means giving the appearance that everything in the home is new.

You can use crisp, white linens and candles in the bathroom for a spa-like feel. Consider adding a bowl of fresh fruit to the kitchen table to represent nourishment, plants in the rooms to show vitality, and a welcome mat at the door next to potted plants.

Stage the exterior as well as the interior to ensure that potential buyers get the wow factor from your home's curb appeal.

Seven: Use Professional Photos and Video

Get professional photos taken of your home, preferably by a photographer with experience in real estate photography.

When shooting the exterior of your house, make sure the sun is shining on it if you want to increase curb appeal for sale.

Take multiple shots from different angles of the interior and exterior. If there are things that can be moved around, do so. For example, remove all personal items from countertops or dressers before having them photographed.

If you're considering video marketing of your house, get that done as well. Marketing videos give an even bigger boost to home sales because they offer potential buyers a chance to get inside the house without ever setting foot in it.

Eight: Price Your House Right

This is one of the most important factors when selling your house quickly.

Your agent can help you decide on the best list price for your home, by taking into account what similar homes in your area are selling for, how long they were on the market, how many times the price was cut, and the difference between the list price and sales price.

If your house is overpriced, it may stay on the market longer. Be sure not to cut the price too quickly, however. This can make buyers think twice about even looking at your home. If the price is reduced too many times, buyers may think it's a sign that something is wrong with the house.

Nine: Create a Compelling Property Description

Your agent will help you write a compelling description of your home to list online for potential buyers to see.

The description should include key features of your home, such as the bathroom fixtures, landscaping, flooring material (wood versus carpet versus tile), and appliances.

Ten: Prepare for Showings

When your home is shown to a potential buyer, it's best if you're not home. If you have pets, you'll also need to make arrangements for them. Some people may have pet allergies or be afraid of pets, or the animals could be disruptive, such as barking loudly.

Your agent will put a lockbox on your front door. This allows the buyer's agent to show the house when you're not home. The lockbox will have a few-digit code that buyers' agents can use to view the house.

In addition, people may go through bedroom closets and drawers, so be sure there's nothing that could offend or make them feel uncomfortable.

Keep the house cleaned and tidy at all times so that you'll be ready for showings at any time.

For a complete list of home selling topics, visit my blog for Main Line PA home selling tips and topics.

Conclusion

Selling your house is a monumental undertaking, with several layers of things to do to ensure that you sell quickly and for the best price. You've got to make repairs, declutter, depersonalize, and clean every nook and cranny. You'll need to find the best real estate agent who can then advise you on how to stage your house, as well as how to price it and prepare it for showings.

Talk with your real estate agent today about more steps you can take to sell your house fast and for top dollar.

Are you interested in hiring a real estate team that is experienced in home selling? At Main Line Homes, we specialize in Main Line PA real estate and can help you prepare your home to sell at a premium price. Contact Janis today for your free estimate of the value of your home, comparative market analysis (CMA) of your home, and help you create a winning strategy to sell your home! We use all the latest technologies to market and to achieve the best outcome for your home sale! Let's get started!

Janis Peterson, REALTOR®, GRI, ABR, SRES, CSP
Main Line PA Homes & Real Estate
Keller Williams Main Line
Suburban Square
6 Coulter Ave
Ardmore, PA 19003
Direct: (610) 642-3744
janis@mainlinehomes.com
www.mainlinehomes.com/selling/

#mainlinehomes #RealEstate #Realtor #homeselling #homesellers #Montgomerycountyhomesforsale #Delawarecountyhomesforsale #chestercountyhomesforsale #pennsylvaniahomesforsale #pennsylvaniarealestate #pahomesforsale #Philadelphiahomesforsale #mainlinerealestate #mainlinerealtors #mainlinerealestateagents

Home > Blog > 5 Ways to Boost Your Home's Curb Appeal

5 Ways to Boost Your Home's Curb Appeal

Whether you are thinking about selling your home or you would just like to make your house look nicer for the neighborhood, there are likely some things you can do to boost its curb appeal as well as its value. Even better, you often don't really have (or need) to spend a lot of money to make the exterior of your house look better.

Here are five home-improvement hacks that can help boost your house's curb appeal. 

1. Take care of your lawn

Your lawn is one of the first things that people will notice when they see your house. That means if your lawn looks overgrown, people will get a bad first impression -- significantly hurting your home's curb appeal. Your neighbors likely will be unhappy with you as well.

Therefore, it's important that you keep your grass mowed regularly. Furthermore, if there are leaves scattered around your yard, mulch them. Also, if you have bare spots without grass, plant some grass seed or buy sod to put over them.

2. Add a little color to your yard

Another way to make the exterior of your house look more impressive is by adding some color to your yard. For example, you can plant some shrubs and/or flowers around the front of your house. Depending on the size of your yard, a couple of flower beds in the middle of your yard might look good as well. Just make sure that you care for (water and prune) whatever you plant to ensure that it looks nice.

3. Clean your gutters

Dirty gutters can make your house look like an eyesore. Therefore, you should clean both the inside and outside of your guttering. Make sure that it's not clogged full of leaves and other debris. You might even consider painting your guttering if it looks especially weathered.

4. Power wash your home's exterior

In addition to clean gutters, you want the exterior of your home, as well as surrounding surfaces, to look clean as well. Therefore, power washing away any dirt and grime on siding, windows, sidewalks, and patios can help boost your home's curb appeal. If you have outdoor lawn furniture that looks dirty, wash it, too.

5. Fix anything that's keeping your house from looking its best

Lastly, issues such as broken window screens, chipped paint, and a bad roof can hurt your home's curb appeal. Therefore, make any needed repairs that can help make your house look nicer. Furthermore, if you have something unsightly like an electrical box on the front of your house, see if you can find a way to cover it up with something that looks more attractive. If your mailbox looks bad, consider replacing it.

In short, you can boost your home's curb appeal by taking good care of your lawn and adding a little color to your yard. Furthermore, you can improve your house's exterior by ensuring that the gutters, siding, and surrounding surfaces are clean. You should also fix any issues that might be keeping your home from looking better.

About www.MainLineHomes.com

At www.MainLineHomes.com, we love working with home sellers! The process of preparing, listing, and selling your home has many complicated steps for you to navigate along the way. Janis Peterson has been helping Main Line home sellers since 1994 and can help guide you through all the steps of selling your home, including determining the price, staging, listing, and advertising, to maximize the sale price of your home and to minimize the hassle and inconvenience.  We can give you advice about the little things that you can do to stage your home, to get you the highest possible price! You’d be surprised by the simple measures you can take to dress up your home to attract more qualified buyers.

If you are thinking of selling your Main Line home in Montgomery, Delaware, or Chester County, PA, Contact Janis at Tel: (610) 642-3744 or e-mail her at janis@mainlinehomes.com, and she will provide you with a Free estimate of the value of your home, comparative market analysis (CMA) of your home, and help you create a winning strategy to sell your home! We use all the latest technologies to market and to achieve the best outcome for your home sale!

Janis Peterson, REALTOR®, GRI, ABR, SRES, CSP
Main Line Homes Luxury Real Estate
Keller Williams Main Line
Suburban Square
6 Coulter Ave 
Ardmore, PA 19003 
Direct: (610) 642-3744
janis@mainlinehomes.com
www.mainlinehomes.com/selling/

#mainlinehomes #RealEstate #Realtor #homeselling #homesellers  #Montgomerycountyhomesforsale #Delawarecountyhomesforsale #chestercountyhomesforsale #pennsylvaniahomesforsale #pennsylvaniarealestate #pahomesforsale #Philadelphiahomesforsale #mainlinerealestate #mainlinerealtors #mainlinerealestateagents 

Home > Blog > How to Stage Your Home for Real Estate Showings

How to Stage Your Home for Real Estate Showings

Home > Blog > When is the Right Time to Buy A Home?

When Is the Right Time to Buy A Home?

Although market conditions and current economic indicators can give an important context for deciding whether it's the right time to buy a home, your decision also depends on your financial situation and readiness to be a homeowner. If you are wondering whether it's a good time to purchase a home, there are several things to think about. This article looks at four important factors to consider when contemplating buying a new home.

Do You Have Enough Money for a Down Payment?

Most lenders ask for a 20 percent down payment to be eligible for a conventional mortgage. However, the more down payment you can pay, the more money you will save over the life of the loan, and you will also be able to reduce your monthly payment. Most people save for the down payment over a period, which can even be years. But for others, the money can come from the sale of an asset or property.

Although the typical down payment for a conventional loan is 20 percent, you can get a loan that requires down payment assistance or a smaller down payment. You can consult with a mortgage banker to find out if you qualify for other loan types with different down payment options.

What Is Your Credit Score?

Even though the total loan amount and terms are important drivers when determining your loan type, your credit score can also be a key factor. So, it's necessary to find out if you have a high enough credit score to purchase a home. If you intend to buy a house, one of the important things to do before you shop for a home is to establish credit.

If you find that you have a low credit score, it's important to take measures to raise your credit score because this will lower your overall monthly payments. It's also important to ensure that you maintain your credit from the time you begin the mortgage process until your last loan payment. Basically, if it's necessary to establish or improve credit, make sure that you do so before you start the mortgage process.

Can You Afford Monthly Payments?

There are three primary factors that determine your monthly payment and these are the loan amount (including the down payment and home price), interest rate, and the duration of the loan. To lower your monthly payment, you can negotiate a bigger down payment or a better home price, as this can reduce the loan amount. You can also lower the interest rate and therefore reduce your monthly payment by improving your credit score or opting for specific loan types.

If you choose a longer loan term, for instance, 30 years, you can expect to have lower monthly payments than if you go for a 15-year mortgage. However, longer-term monthly payments mean more payments will be made over the life of the loan, and more interest will be paid on the loan. Monthly payments also typically include taxes, insurance, and in some cases even Home Owners Association (HOA) dues.

What Are the Market Conditions?

It's vital to have a good understanding of the overall market conditions when looking to buy a new home. The easiest information to find is inventory. If more people are buying than selling, selling your current house will be easier. However, you might pay a premium price for your new house. In contrast, when there is more inventory than homebuyers, you may have to exercise a lot of patience when selling your home. But you may get a deal that is better on your new home. Based on interest rates, the market can change rapidly.

When looking to buy property, it's not uncommon for many homebuyers to try to figure out if home values are falling or rising, while also focusing on mortgage rates. And while these are important standards to follow when determining if it's the right time to buy a home, the four key factors discussed above are vital considerations as well. At the end of the day, the ideal time to buy a home is when you can afford to.   

About Main Line Homes

Janis Peterson, Realtor®, GRI, ABR, SRES, CSP, is an Accredited Buyer Representative (ABR). She has been helping Main Line Buyers and Sellers since 1994. Areas in which she specializes include Montgomery, Delaware, and Chester County, including homes for sale in Radnor, homes for sale in Wayne, and homes for sale in Villanova, as well as homes for sale on the entire Main Line. Contact Janis at Tel: 610-642-3744 or e-mail her at janis@mainlinehomes.com, and she will help you find your dream home!

Janis Peterson, REALTOR®, GRI, ABR, SRES, CSP
Main Line Homes Luxury Real Estate Agent

Keller Williams Main Line
Suburban Square
6 Coulter Ave 
Ardmore, PA 19003 
Direct: (610) 642-3744
www.mainlinehomes.com
Janis@mainlinehomes.com

https://bit.ly/2Hritob
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Home > Blog > 5 Important Factors to Consider When Buying A Main Line Home

5 Important Factors to Consider When Buying A Main Line Home

Although buying a home can be exciting, it can also be intimidating at the same time. Because buying a home is one of the most significant purchase decisions that people make in life, it is necessary to consider certain important factors before you decide on a suitable home. Here are 5 key factors that you will want to consider when searching for and making an offer to buy a home.

1. Property Taxes

When buying property, it is important to know how much you will pay in property taxes. Knowing about property taxes is important for budgeting purposes. You want to avoid a situation whereby, after you have found a suitable home and you are ready to put in an offer, you realize that if you buy that house, you will end up spending way more than what you normally spend each year in taxes. Property taxes are calculated based on the property's value, and can be higher or lower depending on the level of property taxes in the area where the house is located.

2. The Neighborhood

Another important factor to consider when deciding where to set down your roots is the neighborhood that you want. For instance, if you are a young couple and prefer living in a neighborhood with other young families and small children, consider that fact. Or maybe you like the idea of living in the city because you will be close to your workplace and shopping and nightlife.

Because a house is a large purchase, make sure that you choose a neighborhood that meets most, if not all, of your requirements. You can even drive around potential neighborhoods to see for yourself what it will be like living in that area. Alternatively, you can ask around as you carry out your research. If you have kids, you can even drive to a potential area around school closing hours just to see what it's like after schools close.

3. Job Market

One of the important questions that you need to ask when purchasing a home is will you be able to find a job where you're planning to buy a home. This is an important factor to consider, especially if you are already working in a location farther away from where you're considering buying a house. It's necessary to find out what the current job market is like in the new location, as well as the surrounding areas that are within driving distance.

Familiarizing yourself with the job market will also give you a rough idea of whether your property taxes will increase with time. Moving to a neighborhood where most people like to live is good for property value. However, you may have to pay more to stay there. 

4. School District

If you have school-going kids or you intend to have children soon, you'll want to find out as much as possible about the local schools that your children will be attending. How are the schools rated academic-wise? Are the schools reasonably close to the house you are planning to buy? What extracurricular events are offered at these schools? It is important to ask all these questions because the answer to the questions will help you determine whether it's the place you want your children to grow up in. Education is key, so you want to make sure that your children go to excellent schools.  

5. Homeowners Association (HOA)

A Homeowners Association (HOA) is a group of individuals in a neighborhood who work together with the goal of enforcing rules set for the neighborhood. If you are moving to that neighborhood, expect to pay dues that go toward the maintenance or upkeep of that area. So, find out if the neighborhood you are considering has an active HOA and related covenants. Also, find out how much you will be required to pay in terms of yearly dues and what the precise rules are for homeowners.

Buying a home can be overwhelming, especially if you are a first-time buyer. But even though a lot is involved in buying a home, the process can be a lot easier if you consider these five factors before deciding on a suitable home.

About Main Line Homes

At www.mainlinehomes.com, we love working with home buyers! Whether you are a first-time home buyer who is looking for guidance through a sometimes complicated and confusing process, or someone who has bought and sold real estate multiple times in the past, we will take the time to listen to you, understand your needs, and help you achieve your goals. We leverage the latest industry technologies to enable up-to-the-minute tracking of market listings, enabling our clients access to newly listed homes as soon as they hit the market. Janis Peterson is an accredited Buyer Agent, and Buyer Agent representation is available. Janis Peterson has been helping Main Line home Buyers since 1994. Areas in which she specializes include Montgomery, Delaware, and Chester County, PA, Pennsylvania. Contact Janis at Tel: 610-642-3744 or e-mail her at janis@mainlinehomes.com. Let Janis help you find your new home!

Janis Peterson, REALTOR®, GRI, ABR, SRES, CSP
Main Line Homes Luxury Real Estate Agent

Keller Williams Main Line
Suburban Square
6 Coulter Ave 
Ardmore, PA 19003 
Direct: (610) 642-3744
www.mainlinehomes.com
Janis@mainlinehomes.com

https://bit.ly/2Hritob
https://bit.ly/2WbFoXZ

#mainlinehomes #RealEstate #Realtor #BuyHome #homebuying #homebuyers #1stimehomebuyer #homeselling #homesellers

Home > Blog > Easy and Inexpensive Ways to Add Value to Your Home

Easy and Inexpensive Ways to Add Value to Your Home

Are you selling your home and on a budget for ways to add value to your home for sale (or even if not selling your home, to add value to it)? The ideas below could be just what you're looking for. These unique ideas are easy to implement and won't break the bank. Many of these home improvement projects are do-it-yourself, so you won't have to spend money on a professional.

Power Wash 

Power wash your home.  Give the outside of your home a good cleaning. You can hire a local company or individual to power wash your house at a very reasonable rate. You will be surprised how much dirt settles on the outside of your house. Getting rid of that layer of dirt will make a major difference in the outside appearance of your home. Don't just power wash the house though. Go ahead and clean the driveway while you're at it. Removing old oil stains from the driveway will have a big impact on your curb appeal. Speaking of curb appeal, that's next on our list.

Landscaping

 Sure, you can spend thousands of dollars on landscaping but you don't have to. There are many simple and inexpensive landscaping ideas that will have a major impact on the curb appeal of your home. Here are a few easy landscaping ideas: 

•  Mulch flower beds and trees

•  Plant a tree

•  Plant vibrant colored flowers

•  Lay down some pavers

•  Add solar lighting to flowerbeds

Paint

 Giving your whole house a fresh coat of paint does not have to cost an arm and a leg if you do it one section at a time. Consider starting on the front porch since that will have the most effect on your curb appeal. Don't forget to paint the front door. After the porch, paint the rest of the outside. Once you move inside, start with the kitchen before moving on. Most of the time, the experts at your local paint store are happy to help you select colors. Remember to bring along some pictures of your house when you go to the paint store. This will help them as they assist you in selecting colors. Here's a bonus tip. Paint the floor in your garage. It will look amazing and give your whole garage a facelift.

Kitchen Faucet

Upgrading to a modern faucet with a bold new look will make a huge impact on your kitchen's appearance. When choosing your new faucet, make sure you select one with a modern design. You want a faucet that makes people say "Wow!" when they walk into your kitchen. Spend a few extra dollars for that trendy new faucet. You won't regret it.

Water Purifier

 A water purification system can be added to your kitchen for a very reasonable price. These units are typically installed under your sink and add a filtered water tap to your sink. This means no more buying bottled water. The only drawback is that you will need to hire someone to install this system.

Cabinet Hardware

 The next best thing to upgrading your cabinets is to upgrade the cabinet pulls and knobs. This project is so simple that almost anyone can do it. It's also very inexpensive. Pulls and knobs are surprisingly affordable. If you only have time or money to make one change in your kitchen let this be the one.

Garbage Disposal

If you don't already have a garbage disposal in your kitchen, you should add one. They are very inexpensive and will definitely add value to your home. These days, not having a garbage disposal will actually detract value from your home.

Smart Technology

Adding smart technology to your house has never been easier. Even something as simple as adding a digital thermostat will give you that "smart-house" vibe. You can start slow and add one piece of technology at a time. After the thermostat, consider starting with a smart garage door opener. Other things to consider are smart power outlets and light fixtures.

Switch Faceplates

 Depending on the age of your home, the faceplates for the light switches may be very dated. Take a picture of your current light switch faceplates then go to a hardware store. Compare your faceplates with the modern ones they have for sale. If yours seem dated, buy new ones. They are very inexpensive and easy to change out.

Security System 

There are many options for adding a home security system these days. The new trend in home security is a wireless system that you can install yourself. These modern security systems allow you to purchase each of the components separately. For example, you could simply start by protecting one door. Then, over time you could protect more entry points. A security system adds value as well as a layer of protection to your home.

As you see, there are many inexpensive things that can be done to add value to a home, whether selling it or not. The ideas above are by no means an exhaustive list. As you work your way through our list, you will most likely come up with many new and creative ideas of your own. Best of luck to you on your home improvement journey.

About Main Line Homes

Janis Peterson, Realtor®, GRI, ABR, SRES, CSP, www.mainlinehomes.com, is an Accredited Buyer Representative (ABR). The process of preparing, listing, and selling your home has many complicated steps for you to navigate along the way. If you are considering selling your Main Line home, contact Janis, and she can help guide you through all the steps of selling your home, including determining how much your Main Line home is worth, staging, listing your home for sale, and advertising, to maximize the sale price of your home and to minimize the hassle and inconvenience. Janis Peterson has been helping Main Line home Sellers and Buyers since 1994. Areas in which she specializes include homes and real estate for sale in Montgomery, Delaware County, and Chester County, PA, Pennsylvania, including Lower Merion Township, Narberth Borough, Haverford Township, Radnor Township, Newtown Township, Easttown Township, Tredyffrin Township, Willistown Township, Malvern Borough, and Marple Township. Contact Janis at Tel: 610-642-3744 or e-mail her at janis@mainlinehomes.com, and she will help you create a winning strategy to sell your home!

Janis Peterson, REALTOR®, GRI, ABR, SRES, CSP
Main Line Homes Luxury Real Estate Agent

Keller Williams Main Line
Suburban Square
6 Coulter Ave 
Ardmore, PA 19003 
Direct: (610) 642-3744
www.mainlinehomes.com
Janis@mainlinehomes.com

Home > Blog > Home Improvement: Top 3 Renovation Projects that Add Value to Your Home

Home Improvement: Top 3 Renovation Projects that Add Value to Your Home

 If you have plans to sell your home or you want an upgrade, you might want to consider tackling a home renovation project. However, while there are many home renovation projects that you can take up, not all of them will add value to your property. Because home remodeling can be a massive undertaking, making sure that the reward is worth it before taking on the project is very important.

 In other words, having a good understanding of the type of renovations that yield the highest return for your money is vital, especially if the house is going on the market. Even if you don't have plans to sell your home anytime soon, it is always best to choose a home improvement project that adds value to your property. Here are the top 3 home renovations that will increase the value of your home.

 1. Renovate Your Kitchen

A kitchen remodel should be done with functionality in mind. Although the aesthetics aspect is important, the functionality aspect must be your top priority. The kitchen is generally considered the heart of the home, and it is not hard to see why. Although the main purpose of a household kitchen is to prepare and cook meals, it is also a place where family and friends tend to congregate, making it the epicenter of the home. For instance, in addition to preparing and cooking meals, it is the ideal place for the family team huddle, a computer room where bills are paid, an art museum for the kids, and a good place to chitchat with friends.

That is why it is important to have a functional kitchen. A kitchen remodel project can be fun and satisfying, especially if your needs and desires are met. According to Remodeling Magazine's 2021 Cost vs. Value Report, homeowners can expect a 72.2% return on investment for a minor kitchen remodel, and 57.4% for a major remodel. So, when it comes to home improvement projects that can raise the value of your home, kitchen remodeling definitely makes the list. You can update your kitchen with new appliances and other trending features such as wine refrigerators, commercial-style ranges and, drawer-style microwaves.

2. Modernize Your Bathroom

You can also increase your home's value by upgrading your bathroom. According to Remodeling Magazine's Report, homeowners can expect a 60.1% return on investment for a bathroom remodel (midrange), and 57.9% for a universal design. Although the bathroom may seem like a small part of your home, a well-designed bathroom can be a major selling point for any house. You can start with small upgrades that can have a big impact, like replacing inefficient or broken elements such as a leaky faucet or an old showerhead, adding bold finishes and spa-like amenities, adding a fresh coat of paint, or adding new light fixtures.

If you don't have a limited budget, you can take on a bigger bathroom remodeling project that will increase the value of your home. For instance, you can replace your old vanity with a modern one. And, make sure that the vanity countertop has high-end materials like marble and granite. If the bathroom has sufficient space, you can also add dual sinks, especially if it's the master bathroom. You can also consider high-quality flooring options such as ceramic tiles or engineered hardwood flooring.

3. Replace Your Garage Door

According to Remodeling Magazine's Report, homeowners can expect a 93.8% return on investment for a garage door replacement project. Exterior renovation projects such as garage door replacements generally have a high return on investment because first impressions and curb appeal normally make a huge difference for potential homebuyers. So, although garage doors tend to last for decades, one of the best ways to raise the value of your home is to replace an old, worn-out garage door with a new one. Because the cost of replacing the garage door pays for itself, when you invest in a new garage door, you will essentially be making a cost-effective and smart decision.

Apart from monetary profit, a garage door upgrade also has other notable benefits. For instance, it is easier for intruders to break into garage doors with predictable access codes or worn-out locks. And, once the intruders manage to enter your house through the garage, the central area of your house will be easily accessible to them. For maximum security, opt for modern garage doors and openers that have rolling code technology. This type of technology sends a randomly created password to your mobile phone every time you want to open the door. Modern garage doors are also energy efficient. These days, you can choose garage doors made from high-quality materials that provide adequate insulation. If your garage door is properly insulated, it helps to keep the rest of your home warm during winter and cool in the summer.

Although there are many renovation projects that homeowners can tackle, there are certain projects that provide a better return on investments than others. If you are considering putting your house on the market, the three home renovations discussed above will add major value to your home.

About Main Line Homes

Janis Peterson, Realtor®, GRI, ABR, SRES, CSP, www.mainlinehomes.com, is an Accredited Buyer Representative (ABR). She specializes in real estate in Montgomery County, Delaware County, and Chester County, Pennsylvania, and has been offering exceptional service to Philadelphia Main Line Buyers and Sellers, helping them list, sell, and buy Main Line homes and properties since 1994. We offer homes for sale in some of the most popular Main Line neighborhoods, including Ardmore, Berwyn, Bryn Mawr, Gladwyne, Wayne, and Villanova. Get started on your Home Search today!

The process of preparing, listing, and selling your home has many complicated steps for you to navigate along the way. Janis Peterson has been helping Main Line Buyers and Sellers since 1994 and can help guide you through all the steps of selling your home, including determining how much is your home is worth, staging, listing your home for sale, and advertising, to maximize the sale price of your home and to minimize the hassle and inconvenience.  

If you are thinking of selling your home, Contact Janis at Tel: 610-642-3744 or e-mail her at janis@mainlinehomes.com, and she will help you create a winning strategy to sell your home!

Janis Peterson, REALTOR®, GRI, ABR, SRES, CSP
Main Line Homes Luxury Real Estate Agent

Keller Williams Main Line
Suburban Square
6 Coulter Ave 
Ardmore, PA 19003 
Direct: (610) 642-3744
www.mainlinehomes.com
Janis@mainlinehomes.com

Home > Blog > What's So Great About Hiring A Realtor®?

What's So Great About Hiring A Realtor®?

Before you buy a new home or sell your existing residence, you need to decide whether you want to hire a real estate agent. So, what exactly is so great about hiring a Realtor®? Continue reading the information-packed paragraphs below to learn about what a professionally licensed real estate agent can do for you.

(1) Helps You Find a Suitable Home

With several free real estate apps available to download on your cell phone or another electronic device, you can search for a new home yourself. So, why would you need to hire a realtor? A licensed real estate agent often has privy information about homes, of which you may have limited to no access. This privy information could include items, such as houses not yet listed on the market, more comprehensive data on specific homes, current neighborhood sales statistics, and networking with other realtors.

(2) Supplies Answers to Real Estate-Related Questions

No matter whether you're buying or selling a house, you're sure to encounter a barrage of questions regarding them. By hiring a top-notch realtor, you have someone with expertise who can provide the answers you need. And if your agent doesn't know the answer to a specific question or concern you may have, they can tap into their professional resources and contacts to find out the correct answer for you.

What’s Your Home Worth?

Home > Blog > Preparing to List Your Home for Sale? Start with the Basement

Preparing to List Your Home for Sale? Start with the Basement

If you're hoping to sell your home quickly and for a good price, you can't overlook the importance of staging. But while making the living areas look bright, spacious, and comfortable is an essential start, not everyone pays the same level of attention to the basement.

This is a mistake, as savvy buyers know that a basement can reveal a lot about a home, and showing it in a bad light could easily cost you that sale. Here are six things to cover before thinking about listing.

1) Check the Heating System

Your home's heating system not only needs to be in good working order, but it needs to inspire confidence in a potential buyer. Make sure there are no unusual odors or noises coming from the furnace, and that the control panel and other visible surfaces are clean and look well maintained.

It's also a good idea to bring forward a routine service for the system, so that you'll have a recent certificate to show viewers as an extra selling point.

2) Electrical Control Panel

Similarly, if your home's electrical panel is in the basement, give it a quick clean to make sure it looks fresh and well looked after. Replacing a home's electrical system is an expensive inconvenience that any buyer will want to avoid, so make sure the panel looks in reassuringly good condition.

3) Inspect the Pipework

Pipework is often concealed in other parts of your home, but in the basement it's usually on full show. Check all the joints for any signs of rust or leaks, and also check the walls and floor nearby for lingering evidence of any old bursts.

4) Signs of Pests

From rodents to termites, pests in the basement can often go relatively unnoticed. However, an alert viewer will soon pick up on any signs of an infestation. Check for droppings, chew marks, or other tell-tale signs, and remove any bait or traps you might usually leave down. Don't give a potential buyer any excuse to suspect a pest problem.

5) Damp and Mold

It's normal for a basement to smell at least a little musty, but any clear odor of damp or mold will be a quick turn-off for a buyer. Also check for visible water marks or stains, even from a previous damp problem that's since been fixed, and deal with any patches of mold that may be lurking in the darker corners.

6) Deep Clean

Lastly, while a basement is usually a functional space rather than an area for daily living, it's still important that it's as clean and welcoming as possible. A deep clean to remove cobwebs and dust from every nook and cranny will give a much more positive impression, and will also help to clear up any stale odors that are inevitable in a closed, subterranean space.

When you're preparing to list your home, you'll probably spend hours on improving curb appeal and staging the main rooms. But even though your basement might not be a main selling point for your home, any problems that meet a viewer could quickly scupper their interest. Don't overlook the importance of making your basement look the part, and you'll reap the rewards with an easier sale.

About Main Line Homes

Are you interested in hiring a real estate team that is experienced in home selling throughout the Philadelphia Main Line suburbs, including Montgomery County, Delaware County, and Chester County? Janis Peterson, Realtor®, GRI, ABR, SRES, CSP, Main Line Homes, specializes in offering exceptional service to Philadelphia Main Line Buyers and Sellers since 1994.

The process of preparing, listing, and selling your home has many complicated steps for you to navigate along the way. Janis Peterson has been helping Main Line Buyers and Sellers since 1994 and can help guide you through all the steps of selling your home, including determining how much is your home is worth, staging, listing your home for sale, and advertising, to maximize the sale price of your home and to minimize the hassle and inconvenience.  

If you are thinking of selling your home, Contact Janis at Tel: 610-642-3744 or e-mail her at janis@mainlinehomes.com, and she will help you create a winning strategy to sell your home!

Janis Peterson, REALTOR®, GRI, ABR, SRES, CSP
Main Line Homes Luxury Real Estate Agent

Keller Williams Main Line
Suburban Square
6 Coulter Ave 
Ardmore, PA 19003 
Direct: (610) 642-3744
www.mainlinehomes.com
Janis@mainlinehomes.com

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