Make Home Selling a Breeze

Selling a home is a complex process, but working with a real estate professional can make it seamless. Here's what a licensed agent will do for you.

Determine a Fair Market Price
Agents have a thorough understanding of local housing markets and will help you set a price based on comparable sales in the area.

Show Your Property
Using industry connections effectively, your agent has the marketing expertise to attract potential buyers.

Handle Negotiations
Negotiating with buyers can be complicated. An agent works on your behalf to ensure your interests are well represented.

Oversee Documents and Deadlines
It's your agent’s job to see that all documents are completed accurately and in compliance with local laws and regulations.

Make it Enjoyable
A real estate agent is your advocate and will often become your friend. They're happy to do the work so you can have a positive experience.

Energy-Efficient Upgrades That Give Back

Giving back to your home, your budget and the environment can be very rewarding with these cost-effective home upgrades.

• Convert to a programmable thermostat.
• Upgrade to energy-efficient windows.
• Replace old appliances with ENERGY STAR-certified models.
• Seal air leaks around doors and windows.
• Ensure that caulking is not leaking air between building components, such as where walls meet ceilings and floors, or around electrical switches and receptacles.
• Switch to LED light bulbs.
• Add solar panels if your property provides the necessary exposure to sunlight.

For more ideas on improving your home's energy efficiency, consult a professional energy auditor.

Prepare for New Home Construction

When building your dream home, there are countless details to consider. Here are three steps to take in the months before the shovel hits the soil.

• Visit as many properties on the market as you can. Touring houses will give you ideas to incorporate into your new build. Pay close attention to floor plans, color schemes and the extra bells and whistles you may not have considered.
• Make a "non-negotiable" list and a "wish" list. Amenities can quickly add up, making your new home more expensive. Compose two lists to help differentiate between what you absolutely must have and what you can live without.
• Research multiple architects and builders. These are the people who will actually design and build your dream home, so it's crucial to ensure they meet your expectations. Look at their portfolios, check their reviews and compare their fees to others in the area.

It's important to have your real estate agent join you on your first site visit so the builder knows you won't be using their representative.

Outdoor Home Staging Tips

Interior touch-ups and repairs often take center stage when preparing to sell, but outdoor spaces deserve time in the spotlight too. Here are some simple ways to spruce up outside and ensure your property stands out from the competition.

• Pressure wash all hard surfaces, and stain decks and porches as needed.
• Remove unnecessary items like unused furniture, and make sure children's toys are stored away during showings.
• Add solar or battery-powered landscape lighting and lanterns.
• Arrange inviting conversation and dining areas with comfortable furniture, soft pillows and colorful rugs.
• Create a focal point with a fire pit surrounded by chairs or benches.
• Keep garden beds and planters thriving with colorful flowers.
• Mow the lawn and weed gardens regularly.