August 20th, 2014 at 3:30 pm
When you’re in the process of selling your home, consider what you look for when buying a home. In order to get a buyer to make a purchase, they must feel an emotional tie to the home. Factors like location and price play a prominent part, but by appealing to a buyers’ emotions you’re putting the icing on the cake. An emotional pull is likely to outweigh other factors. One of the easiest ways to create that connection is by creating an inviting sensory experience.
The sense of smell might be the most impactful of all the senses. Think about your own life, do certain smells conjure up both happy and sad memories. Smell can transport you to a different time and place. As a home seller you can use this to your advantage. Start by thoroughly cleaning your home; steam clean carpets, air out closed off rooms and invest in lightly scented air fresheners (be cautious of anything too bold). Pay attention to anything that can cause an unpleasant odor, like garbage cans and dirty laundry, and make sure these areas are cleaned before an open house or showing. If you have notice of an open house or showing, consider baking homemade goodies. Accompany the treats with a handwritten note inviting the guests to sit, relax and enjoy. The aroma and hand written note will make the potential buyer feel right at home and hopefully remind them of fond memories associated with the scent.
On that same note, taste can also be used as a way to build an emotional connection. Set out coffee, fresh baked goods, fruit or even candy. This can help buyers to feel comfortable and leave them with a pleasant impression. (more…)
August 7th, 2014 at 10:00 am
The real estate industry has been buzzing about the Zillow – Trulia merger. Separately, these are the two largest online real estate listing companies in the United States. The plan to merge swirled throughout the industry last week and have since been confirmed; causing a substantial gain in Zillow’s stock price. However, the merger will do more than boost the bank accounts of those invested in these companies, it will also affect the real estate industry as a whole.
What Likely Will Not Change
If you’ve ever used either of these sites before you’ve probably also noticed that there isn’t as much information available for a property when compared to a local real estate agency. This fact is not likely to change as neither site is an MLS. Plans to take over MLSs have not currently been discussed in terms of this merger. Consumers should not expect to get access to more listings or depend on better information, but the ease and functionality of these sites should continue to improve. Most buyers begin the process online and these two sites are the most popular places to start. Consumers expect to receive hyper-local content from local real estate companies. Although they may begin their search online, those in the market to buy a home will be looking for local information from an agent.
Likely Changes (more…)
July 30th, 2014 at 9:00 am
Whether you just started thinking about selling your home or you home is already on the market, completing a few home improvement projects can go a long way to increase the value of your home. In fact, a recent study by RIS Media showed that 32% of consumers planned to spend money on improving their home; 20% of those respondents planned to sell their home after renovations.
When considering home improvements it’s important to remember that bigger does not always mean better. There are a number of high-cost projects that can help you sell your home, but there are also a number of budget-friendly projects that can go a long way. Keep in mind, the goal is not to focus on luxury updates, but rather home functionality updates. Below is our list of home projects that have a direct correlation with resale value.
High Cost, High Payoff Projects
Low Cost Projects
June 12th, 2014 at 9:09 am
Whether it’s your first or the fifth home you’re selling, if you’ve recently made the decision to sell, you have a lot on your plate. In real estate, first impressions are everything. The more attractive your home appears, the greater likelihood you’ll have of receiving a comfortable offer in record time – the ideal situation for anyone selling their home. Although you can’t predict the market, there are several things you can do to get your home ready for sale and poised to do well against the competition.
