Monday, April 29, 2013

17 Inexpensive Home Staging Tips



17 INEXPENSIVE HOME STAGING TIPS
 
 
1.      Touch up all interior paint or repaint it completely in a rich designer color with white trim.
 
2.      Pressure-wash the exterior and repaint the exterior trim, shutters and front door.
 
3.      Place a new friendly welcome mat at the front door.
 
4.      Replace old exterior lights with new contemporary fixtures.
 
5.      Clean all windows inside and out.
 
6.      Repair or replace broken window screens and bent frames.
 
7.      Fix dripping faucets and replace discolored, rust-stained sinks.
 
8.      Replace the hardware on interior doors for a more updated look.
 
9.      Clean or install new interior light fixtures and replace burnt-out bulbs.
 
10.  Get rid of/store unused clothing and organize your closets to make them appear larger.
 
11.  Re-caulk tubs, showers and countertops with fresh white grout and acid-wash shower bottoms.
 
12.  Clean and add, remove or replace window coverings.  Two inch blinds are a favorite.
 
13.  Clean, repair and re-stretch or replace carpeting.
 
14.  Clean and organize the garage, attic and basement.  Rent a storage unit or POD if necessary.
 
15.  Renovate/rejuvenate the landscape, reseed the lawn, add color with flowers.
 
16.  Pack and store collections and personal items.
 
17.  Replace old electrical switches.
 
 

Wednesday, April 24, 2013

Why do I Need a Home Inspection?

Why, you ask, do I need to spend money for a home inspection?

Buying a home is the largest single investment most people ever make. What you can't see and don't notice can come back to cost you hundreds, even thousands of dollars.
In North Carolina sellers must disclose material facts that they know are wrong with their home, however sometime issues remain hidden and it isn't until the home inspection is complete that they are uncovered.  A home inspection may identify the need for major repairs or builder oversights, as well as the need for maintenance to keep it in good shape.
To minimize unpleasant surprises and unexpected difficulties, you’ll want to learn as much as you can about the newly constructed or existing house before you buy it. Most good Home Inspectors are eager to share their knowledge and "school" you on the home you have under contract to purchase. After the inspection, you will know more about the house, which will allow you to finalize your decisions with confidence.

If you already are a homeowner, a home inspection can identify problems in the making and suggest preventive measures that might help you avoid costly future repairs.  It can make your home more salable when buyers know that you've been proactive in addressing any issues that may exist.  The potential for surprise repairs is also minimized for the seller which is important when you consider that the price for the home has already been negotiated between the buyer and seller.

All buyers should have a home inspection and it can often be beneficial for sellers.  If you would like to talk to a Home Inspector in the Triad contact  National Property Inspections for more information.  Mike Hunger is a trusted inspector which is just what you need when making a home investment decision.