 | City Spotlight: Kansas City 5/14/2008 8:13:47 AM |
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Kansas City offers a lifestyle as good as its food: exciting, sizzling and original! World-renowned for its legendary barbeques and steaks, this city offers no shortage of attractions, from a thriving music scene with countless live performances and hopping blues and jazz clubs to a rich cultural landscape, with the Kansas City Symphony and the Lyric Opera headlining impressive shows.
There's no better place to experience Kansas City than the Country Club Plaza, 14 square blocks of outdoor More ... |
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| City Spotlight: Phoenix 5/12/2008 8:05:42 AM |
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If you love the heat, you'll love Phoenix, a city known for being hot, hot, hot! With an arid climate, this area offers the highest average annual maximum temperature of any major U.S. city.
Moonsoonal moisture from July to September raises the humidity to one-of-a-kind heights, and dry desert air provides welcome relief in the winter, attracting tourists nationwide. Hot weather isn't all Phoenix is known for!
This city boasts a thriving golf industry and a wide array of cultural and recreational More ... |
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| City Spotlight: Dallas 5/10/2008 8:49:05 AM |
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They don't call Dallas "Big D" for nothing! Ranked as the #1 visitor destination in Texas, Dallas is known for its progressive, big-thinking ideas, with a recently launched green campaign and a wealth of world-class attractions. When many people think Dallas, they think Old West charm. Yet this city is even more than that, combining a rich history with the modern amenities of a major metropolis!
Take your pick of a variety of recreation options, with choices to suit any interest! From the More ... |
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| City Spotlight: New Orleans 5/8/2008 8:07:57 AM |
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Welcome to the historic, revitalized New Orleans! With a rich and enduring culture, New Orleans has come back with a vengeance.
The world-renowned Mardi Gras celebration brings people from all over the world for the celebration of a lifetime, while a thriving visual art and jazz scene keep this city active all the year round.
Original French and Spanish architecture remains in the city's French Quarter, the oldest and most famous neighborhood of New Orleans. The French Quarter is home More ... |
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| Regional Spotlight: Treasure Coast 5/6/2008 8:30:07 AM |
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The Treasure Coast truly lives up to its name as a treasure of Florida, with gorgeous sandy beaches, fine restaurants, abundant shopping spots and unique attractions. Stretching from Hobe Sound in the south to Sebastian in the north, the beautiful east coast of Florida offers a relaxed atmosphere and a laid-back lifestyle that is sure to appeal to anyone looking to get away from the busy pace of the big city.
Home to the PGA Golf Club, the Treasure Coast features some of the best golf courses More ... |
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| Regional Spotlight: Central Florida 5/4/2008 8:52:08 AM |
| | Well-known as a top vacation destination, Central Florida is home to a long list of world-class destinations from Walt Disney World and Universal Studios to the Kennedy Space Center and the Daytona International Speedway.
Because of its thriving tourist industry, this region has attracted all kinds of upscale shopping malls, high-end restaurants and even major designers like Chanel and Louis Vuitton, showcased at The Mall at Millenia.
Tourist attractions aren't the only convenience of this More ... |
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| Regional Spotlight: South Florida 5/2/2008 8:43:39 AM |
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South Florida offers all the things that come to mind when you hear the phrase "Sunshine State." From its sandy beaches to its multicultural night life, this region leaves no doubt as to why it's a premier destination for visitors nationwide.The tropical climate boasts warm and humid weather throughout most of the year, with the average monthly temperature never dropping below 65°F and usual summer highs in the 80s and 90s. Coastal living gets even better when you consider the wealth of attractions More ... |
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| Creating a Garden: Part 2 5/1/2008 8:15:35 AM |
| | After your have chosen the kinds of plants you would like to flourish in your vision of a garden, it's time to make the dream a reality!
Planting Your Garden
The most ideal time of day to plant your garden is morning. The fresh dew makes the soil easy to handle, and the sun is not at its hottest until later in the day. However, it would also be easier to plant on an overcast day.
There are several steps you need to take when planting your gorgeous garden.
Water the plants in their pots More ... |
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| Home Sales Down, Median Prices Up 4/29/2008 3:20:17 PM |
| | Bittersweet news for Illinois homeowners: median home prices are steadily rising amid a steady drop in home sales.
This could be interpreted in a number of ways; most importantly, we can see that desirable homes are selling for higher prices.
While many homes are still stuck on the market, this statistic may be an incentive to make your home as desirable as possible.
An article from www.suburbanchicagonews.com examines the ups and downs of this story:
"During March, home sales remained More ... |
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| Creating a Garden: Part 1 4/29/2008 12:14:07 PM |
| | Is your front lawn looking pretty empty? Is something missing from your backyard?
Plant a garden to spruce up the look of your verdant landscaping! Not only does it add value to your home, but it gives you something pretty to look at any time of the day.
Not sure where to begin? Here are a few helpful hints:
Choose a Spot
What's the point of having a garden if you are not going to enjoy its beauty? First and foremost, you should plant your garden in the place where you will enjoy it More ... |
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| Buy vs. Rent: Rent Calculators & Loan Estimators 4/25/2008 5:31:47 PM |
| | The difference in cost in renting and owning a home could make a world of difference to your financial situation. It is important to recognize the many different situations that, although they may seem cheaper at the time, will actually cost you more in the long run. Using loan calculators and rent-versus-buy calculators can give you some insight into how taxes, tax breaks, equity and general expenses can factor into this major financial decision.
Here are a few financial calculators that are More ... |
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| Why Your Home Isn't Selling 4/20/2008 8:58:23 AM |
| | Have you had your house on the market for months without an offer? Are you frustrated by the lack of response to your advertisements, open houses and hard work?
Very often, it all comes down to one word: price.
According to many experts, there are currently more homes on the market than there are buyers. This means buyers get to be picky, and they'll be expecting a good deal.
Homes that sell quickly have one big thing in common: they're priced competitively.
How can you be sure your More ... |
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| Should You Finish Your Basement? 4/18/2008 8:04:36 AM |
| | Are you looking to add extra space to your home?
Are potential buyers turned off by the small size of your home's interior? Would a finished basement help capture their attention?
There are pluses and minuses with either finished or unfinished spaces, so you'll want to do your homework before jumping into a lengthy project. However, it makes sense that by transforming unused spaces into functional living areas, you could give your home a leg up against the competition.
Should you finish More ... |
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| It's All in the Walls 4/16/2008 8:36:07 AM |
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Looking to add elegance or change to a room, with your own touch of flair? Consider these options: wainscoting, crown molding and chair railings usually are simple to install but any of them can dramatically change the look of a room.
Wainscoting
Wainscoting is a paneling, usually made of wood, that can be purchased plain or with decorative markings. Ceramic tile and vinyl also can be used for the same purpose.
The paneling is most often adhered to the lower portion of a wall, from More ... |
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| Senate Bill is Big News for Homeowners and Builders 4/14/2008 8:46:12 AM |
| | Big changes for homeowners, builders, and those facing foreclosure may be affected by the Senate bill passed on Thursday. While several changes are expected before the bill is enacted, this overwhelmingly supported move will give the housing market much-needed assistance and should help to stabilize and revitalize the market. Several tax breaks and grants are included in this bill, such as:- Big tax breaks for homebuilders
- A $7,000 tax incentive for buying foreclosed properties
- Federal More ... |
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| Types of Flooring (con.) 4/13/2008 4:00:31 PM |
| | Whether you're designing a new home or planning a remodel, it pays to be informed about your options. Flooring affects every room, from the kitchen to the living areas, so it's worth considering.
In "Types of Flooring," we presented the facts about a few options: hardwood, laminate, stone, and carpet. Now let's take a look at tile:
Ceramic tile
If installed and maintained properly, ceramic tile flooring should last for a very long time. Its versatility makes ceramic tile particularly appealing, More ... |
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| Types of Flooring 4/11/2008 8:44:01 AM |
| | From cozy Berber carpeting to gleaming hardwood, there are so many types of floors to choose from, each with their own advantages and disadvantages.
Some flooring adds value to your home, while others are simply used because they are comfortable, inexpensive, or easy to maintain. When you're thinking about what kind of flooring to install in your home, here are some options to consider.
Hardwood
Aside from its obvious beauty, hardwood flooring offers many additional benefits. It increases More ... |
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| Knowing Your Streets 4/9/2008 5:30:24 PM |
| | In the market for a new home? As you start viewing properties, one of the initial bits of information you’ll receive is the address. The home may be on a street, a road, an avenue, a boulevard—what does this mean?
Is there a difference between an avenue and a boulevard? And with Americans using expressions like “down the street” and Brits using phrases such as “up the road,” what exactly is the difference between varying street names?
Here’s a little cheat sheet, taken from Merriam Webster More ... |
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| Should You Put Work Into Your Home? 4/6/2008 8:59:57 AM |
| | For most homeowners, investing time, energy and money into their properties goes without saying. It’s part of home ownership, part of making a house your own.
There are two main types of work to put into a home, based upon the reasons for doing so. Evaluating your motivation will help you evaluate the legitimacy of your project.
Are you working to (1) improve your living space or (2) attract buyers?
OPTION #1: IMPROVING LIVING SPACE
Common for homeowners who plan to stay in homes long-term, More ... |
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| Home Sales Are Up! 4/4/2008 5:26:19 PM |
| | For the first time since July of 2007, home sales are on the upswing. Sales rose by 2.9 percent in February after a dramatic six-month decline that has sent the housing market on a downturn. While sales are still down from the previous year, this marks the building of momentum toward recovery and a healthy housing market.
What's the most surprising factor?
Sales jumped before spring, showing an interest to move homes in anticipation of the coming season. An early jump on sales suggests More ... |
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| Why Do I Need Home Insurance? 4/1/2008 8:45:04 AM |
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If you're like most homeowners, your home is your single greatest investment.
It represents years of hard work, from the money you've invested upfront and over the years to the sweat equity you've contributed.
That's why it's too important of an investment not to protect. And that's why you need home insurance.
Simply put, home insurance serves to protect your home, your belongings and your personal liability.
1) Protect your largest investment
Homeowners' insurance covers More ... |
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| Home Projects for a Weekend 3/28/2008 8:21:41 AM |
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You're selling your home and want to get it in tip-top shape for showings. The only problem? Your busy schedule makes it hard to squeeze in time for remodeling projects. Don't worry! There are things you can do, even in a weekend, to spruce up your place.
Take a look at the following home projects, designed to be completed in a short amount of time:
ORGANIZE: Inexpensive and efficient, simply cleaning and organizing your home can dramatically improve its selling power. Choose one room or More ... |
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| Have You Held an Open House Yet? 3/24/2008 8:28:21 AM |
| | As spring approaches and you continue to improve your home’s potential to sell, consider scheduling an open house!
Inviting interested buyers into your home can be an effective method for bringing traffic into your property.
Getting buyers inside your residence may make all the difference between mildly interested and ready to buy.
How to Get the Word Out:
Buy Owner sellers enjoy the option of flagging their property in online listings, highlighting the time and date of the next showing More ... |
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| To Wallpaper or Not to Wallpaper? 3/22/2008 8:26:44 AM |
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Have you heard? Wallpaper is making a comeback. You'll see it in design magazines, decorator showcases, model homes.
Yet despite its being the trendiest thing to put on your walls, you might be leery of putting the modern equivalent of your mother's flower prints in your kitchens for the next 25 years. If you're thinking about doing wallpaper, think about your future and the future buyer of your home.
Should you wallpaper? Short answer: yes, if you love wallpaper. Wallpaper your heart out. More ... |
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| How to Be a Creative Seller 3/20/2008 8:56:59 AM |
| | In today's buyers' market, it's not enough to list your home for sale. Putting a sign in the front yard is a start, but usually it will take more--much more--to find a buyer for a property.
You need to maximize your selling power, getting the word out to as many people as possible. Casting a wide net increases your chances of finding a buyer.
How can you do this?
Step One: Choose the best Buy Owner advertising package available.
Meeting with a Buy Owner marketing person will allow you More ... |
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| Choosing a Chandelier 3/18/2008 4:44:12 PM |
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Gone are the days when a chandelier was only used to welcome guests into the grand foyer or to illuminate formal meals in the banquet-sized dining room.
While chandeliers were once reserved for the wealthy, nowadays you can find all different types of chandeliers in every room in the home.
With such a variety to choose from, it's hard to know where to begin. A chandelier is almost always the focal point of a room, so it's important to consider what kind of statement you want to make.
Is More ... |
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| Selling a Home as an Equity Sharer 3/12/2008 8:15:47 AM |
| | Extra Profit and a Quicker Sell
If you are selling your home and are looking for a smart incentive to offer your buyer, consider equity sharing as a way to take a tax-deductible stake in the property and draw high-income but low-equity buyers toward your home.
Here's how it works: if a prospective buyer does not have enough money for a down payment, but can afford the regular monthly costs and mortgage for your home, you can make the down payment yourself to buy a stake in your current home. More ... |
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| REAL ESTATE TERM: EQUITY 3/10/2008 8:41:36 AM |
| | WHAT IS EQUITY?
Simply put, equity is the financial interest you have in your home. To determine your equity, you'd take the fair market value of your property and deduct what amount you still owe on any mortgages. The remaining figure is your equity.
WHAT IS A HOME EQUITY LINE OF CREDIT?
Many homeowners cash in on their property investment with a home equity line of credit. What this essentially means is that the bank looks at your equity (fair market value minus what's owed) and loans More ... |
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| Big-Time Home Remodeling 3/8/2008 3:12:36 PM |
| | How to Hire the Right Contractor and Keep to Your Budget
While do-it-yourself remodels are all the rage these days, there are some projects that will inevitably be outside your realm of expertise. When these larger-scale projects come around, it might be best to hire a contractor to organize and execute your plan. Structural changes and major additions will likely result in hiring outside work, and it is important to know what you need before you begin construction. While your contractor More ... |
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| How to Choose the Perfect Housewarming Gift 3/6/2008 10:05:18 AM |
| | It's customary for a new homeowner to throw a party after his or her recent move. While you'll be excited to tour the new abode and enjoy drinks and food, you should also consider bringing a thoughtful gift for the host.
When considering a gift, you should first consider the nature of the homeowner. A first-timer might need the basics: small kitchen appliances, decorative dishware, towels, bed sheets, etc. A well-established homeowner will most likely have all of the necessities. So what do you More ... |
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| Renting to Own 3/4/2008 6:30:06 PM |
| | Rent to own. Lease to own. Lease purchase. Lease option. The concept goes by many names, but the basic idea remains the same.
What is a Rent-to-Own Home?
Renting to own is perfect for anyone who is looking to purchase a home right now but needs time to build up their credit or save for a down payment. When you purchase a rent-to-own property, a portion of your monthly rent is going toward the down payment for the home, working as a kind of built-in savings plan. You agree on a lease term and More ... |
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| The Great Room Debate 2/29/2008 8:25:54 AM |
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A great room is an area that combines several different spaces into one---the family room, the television area, the living room, and the computer space. Some great rooms, which usually boast a two-story ceiling, may even have an area for a table and chairs, while others boast a walkway or loft area that looks down on the great room.
It may be located relatively near the kitchen and typically features a large fireplace that more often than not extends all the way up to the two-story ceiling.
DESIGNED More ... |
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| WHAT IS A FICO? 2/27/2008 8:55:50 AM |
| | A FICO is the most frequently used type of credit score. Credit scores, essentially, are used to summarize your credit risk, based on a snapshot of your credit at a particular point in time.
This helps lenders estimate the risk involved with loaning you money. Your credit score influences the credit that's available to you and the terms that lenders offer you.
Where did FICO scores come from?
FICO scores were developed by Fair Isaac Corporation. Fair Isaac develops FICO scores based solely More ... |
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| Selling a Vacant Home 2/25/2008 6:19:15 PM |
| | Selling a vacant home can be difficult. For example, without seeing a kitchen table or a living room sofa, it might be hard for potential buyers to picture their belongings in your home. On the other hand, it might eliminate the distractions of decor that doesn't match a certain buyer's taste.
Making an empty house appeal to buyers is not an impossible task! Here's what to do:
1. Remember that first impressions always count. The front exterior is the first thing people are going to see when More ... |
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| Spring is Coming! 2/16/2008 8:04:51 AM |
| | What are you doing to get ready for spring?
Spring is the hottest time to put your home up for sale, when the snow melts and your home is looking its best. March is coming quickly upon us, and now is the time to get your home in gear for spring house hunters roaming around your neighborhood. Here are some end-of-winter tips to kick your home's curb appeal up a few notches:
Shovel and salt your walkways: People want to see where walkways lead, and just how wide your spacious circular driveway More ... |
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| Go Green This February! 2/10/2008 8:18:20 AM |
| | Did you know there a number of ways to make your home a little greener, even in the blah winter months?
Helping the environment helps everyone, from you (lower bills) to the world around you (a better planet).
REEVALUATE YOUR HABITS
Take a look at Buy Owner Blog article, "Energy-Saving Tips" for specific ideas on how you can make important changes, from rethinking your lightbulbs to lowering your thermostat.
ADD SOME PLANTS
No matter where you live, you can practice a green thumb with More ... |
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| What You Need to Know about Windows 2/8/2008 6:09:23 PM |
| | Where would a home be without windows? No natural light, no tree-filled views, no connection between the indoors and out. In short, it'd be a pretty drab place to live. It makes sense, then, that windows play such an important role in the appeal of a home. There are many different types of windows, and thus many different options for choosing ones for a home. Whether you're selling or shopping, knowing your windows makes sense.
TYPES OF WINDOWS, A-Z:
Awning: Horizontal in shape, fixed glass, More ... |
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| Improve Your Kitchen: Decoration 2/2/2008 8:02:17 AM |
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Sometimes it can be difficult to imagine a new look. But the next time you are in your kitchen, take a minute to see how many ideas you can invent to inexpensively update the room. As seen in the series on kitchen improvements, a little effort and a minimal amount of cash can easily transform your kitchen from a humdrum room to the highlight of your home.
Be sure to look at cabinetry, countertops, backsplash options, sinks and lighting. Then, last but not least, consider the finishing touches:
DECORATIVE More ... |
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| Organizing the Garage 1/31/2008 8:20:40 AM |
| | Are you one of those people who keeps meaning to get the garage in order to free up some space to park a car? Organizing the garage may seem like a daunting task, but it doesn't have to be overwhelming.Start by going through your garage and figuring out what you are keeping, what you are giving away, and what you are throwing out. Get rid of anything you really don't need. Then organize by separating things into groups. The pruning shears should not be mixed in with the tennis rackets and the soccer More ... |
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| Improve Your Kitchen: Lighting 1/29/2008 8:25:54 AM |
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Never underestimate the power of lighting: it sets the stage for usability, ambiance, and a gleaming appearance. That's why it's an excellent area to consider improving in your kitchen. After you've examined cabinets, countertops, backsplashes and sinks, you still haven't exhausted all of your cost-effective options for improving your kitchen's value: you still have to take a look at lighting.
LIGHTING
Where
There are several places lighting is needed in a kitchen, including over the More ... |
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| Energy-Saving Tips 1/27/2008 8:04:51 AM |
| | If you're like the typical homeowner, heating and cooling bills take an unwelcome chunk of your monthly expenses. And keeping comfortable doesn't just affect your pocketbook; it takes a toll on the environment, too.
In the interest of saving money and saving energy, these helpful tips are worth considering:
1. Set the Temperature.
Program the thermostat to a fairly steady temperature, and try to stick with it. By keeping it regular, you prevent the system from overworking, wasting energy More ... |
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| Improve Your Kitchen: Sinks/Faucets 1/25/2008 8:15:24 AM |
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Adding value to one of the most important rooms in your home doesn't have to be over-expensive. In fact, there are a number of cost-effective projects that will maximize your home's presentation and appeal. As part of our continued series on cost-effective kitchen improvements, we've discussed the impact of cabinets, countertops and backsplashes. Now, let's look at sinks and faucets:
SINKS/FAUCETS
A kitchen sink is a necessity, but it also can be the focal point. For this reason, the sink More ... |
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| REAL ESTATE TERM: DEEDS 1/23/2008 8:45:48 AM |
| | Getting serious about real estate means getting serious about real estate terms. Do a little research in the field, and you'll see one dominating truth: a successful investor is an informed investor. Arm yourself with knowledge, and you'll arm yourself with power.
A variety of terms will arise as you get to know real estate practices. Take deeds, for example. What is a deed? Are there different types of deeds? How can they affect you as a buyer or seller?
WHAT IS A DEED?
Essentially, a More ... |
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| Improve Your Kitchen: Backsplashes 1/21/2008 8:27:36 AM |
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Because of its value in relation to the rest of a home, the kitchen is too important of a room to overlook when selling a property. Even small improvements can drastically increase selling power and marketability. See previous articles on cabinets and countertops for a few ideas, and be sure to consider this:
Possibility #3: BACKSPLASH
A whole new look can be created by adding a backsplash in your kitchen. A backsplash traditionally lies above the counters and below the cabinets, and More ... |
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| Location, Location, Location 1/19/2008 7:34:37 AM |
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Why it Matters & How You Can Sell Yours to Buyers
The truth is, a property's location is its most important feature. No buyer will appreciate your home's renovated kitchen, spacious bedrooms, or designer decorating without first seeing them, and no buyer will see those things if you're home's not in the right place.
Not sure if your home's location makes for an ideal sale? It's time for a fresh perspective: a great location isn't just about expensive neighborhoods or proximity to More ... |
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| Improve Your Kitchen: Counters 1/17/2008 8:00:07 AM |
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In a recent article, we discussed the value of reexamining your kitchen's appearance and functionality. Turns out, a little work can go a long way to improving your home's value, and it all starts in the kitchen. Even minor kitchen improvements can make a dramatic difference. The first option we provided related to cabinet upgrades.
Here's part two of our series:
Possibility #2: COUNTERTOPS
Clean
After cabinets, the countertops are probably the item most noticed by visitors to your More ... |
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| The Value of Mortgage Preapproval 1/15/2008 7:59:46 AM |
| | With Buy Owner, you have easy access to the best mortgage rates available through our partner, Guaranteed Rate. So when you're considering purchasing a home, take the time to investigate your options.
WHAT DOES IT MEAN?
Prequalification: based on what you report for income, assets, liabilities and credit rating.
Preapproval: based on verified data regarding income, assets, liabilities and credit rating.
WHY IS IT WORTH DOING?
Being a prequalified, preapproved buyer allows you to take advantage More ... |
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| Improve Your Kitchen: Cabinets 1/13/2008 8:12:58 AM |
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If you're like most homeowners, odds are you spend a majority of your time in the kitchen. You want it to be a room that's inviting, functional, and attractive. So when it comes to selling your home, you'll want to keep this important room at the top of your priority list. In other words, you'll want to consider renovating.
Renovating doesn't have to be expensive to be dramatic. In fact, even minor changes can net thousands of dollars in added value.
Intimidated to get started? Don't be. More ... |
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| 3 Water-Saving Home Improvements 1/11/2008 8:02:42 AM |
| | In our society, running water is a given. Probably the only time we give it any thought is when something goes wrong or when we get the monthly water bill. It's a necessity, so we have to pay for it. But do we have to pay so much?
In actuality, there are a number of easy things you can do to reduce your water bill.
1. Get Everything in Working Order
Leaks - Did you know a dripping faucet can waste up to 20 gallons of water per day? One or more leaks-in the sink, the shower, or the tub-can More ... |
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| See How Easily You Can Sell Your Own Home! 1/9/2008 8:57:14 AM |
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Contract to closing, Buy Owner creates a smooth selling process: that’s "The Buy Owner Difference."
From tips on staging to organizing to cleaning to curb appeal, Buy Owner provides information, right here at the blog, to help you prepare your home for sale.
Buy Owner marketing plans offer options for quality descriptions, professional virtual tours, captions.
The suggested strategies here at the blog provide ways to get the word out about your home, ways to sell while out-of-town, More ... |
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| Why You're the Expert on Your Home 1/7/2008 8:52:10 AM |
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No one knows your home like you do. No certifications or title can substitute for personal history and experience.
So it makes sense, then, that you'd be the most qualified person to sell your property. Who else knows your home's features, right down to the year things were upgraded and the type of materials you used in that home improvement project?
Think about some of the things you now know about your home, simply by having lived in it:
Local Attractions
Convenience to Shops, More ... |
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| Add Value to a Kitchen: Backsplashes 1/5/2008 8:24:25 AM |
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Backsplashes, which come in a variety of colors and textures, are a great way to add vitality to your kitchen's visual appeal. Take a look at this list of five common types, and get acquainted with your image-enhancing options:
1. Stainless Steel
- Description: A professional look often seen in a restaurant kitchen, stainless steel backsplashes are usually installed with a plywood backing to reduce noise. Because of its neutral tone, stainless steel matches virtually any décor. It is also More ... |
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| Interior Plants 1/3/2008 9:32:24 AM |
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Looking for a way to brighten up your home's interior? Consider plants!
According to Green Plants for Green Buildings (GPGB), "Plants ... offer more than aesthetic value. In fact, studies have shown they help reduce stress, enhance ... attitudes, increase productivity, and improve air quality."
The benefits of plants are undeniable!
1. Plants improve air quality.
GPGB says, "Research shows that plant-filled rooms contain 50-60% fewer airborne molds and bacteria than rooms without More ... |
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| The First Five Things to do in a New City 12/30/2007 9:27:44 AM |
| | Your prep work came in handy in helping you get ready to move. Now it's moving day.
Wondering what you can do to get acclimated to your new location, once you're living there? Moving to a new place can be daunting, but learning about your surroundings in a savvy way can help make it your new home. Here are some tips to get accustomed to your new surroundings:
Find your Transportation
You gathered maps already, and you've located key places. Now it's time to put that knowledge to use! It’s More ... |
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| Buying Old vs. New Homes 12/28/2007 9:18:33 AM |
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Why Buy New Construction?
1. Competitive Price - New developments make it easy to compare homes with other new properties in the market, equating value to value. All the homes are the same age, and the options are listed upfront with the price breakdown. You won't have to factor in extensive remodeling work, as the home will have been freshly designed.
2. Warranties - New homes come with at least one-year general warranties. Most likely, major appliances will be warrantied for five years, More ... |
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| 10 Ways to Create More Space in Every Room in Your Home 12/26/2007 7:07:39 AM |
| | If you missed our recent, four-part series on opening up your home's interior, take a look at these More ... |
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| 10 Ways to Create More Space in Bathrooms 12/23/2007 7:03:21 AM |
| | There are plenty of easy ways to add space without remodeling your entire home. This four-part series zeroes in on specific ideas that open up your home's interior.
In this final installment, we examine strategies for making bathrooms look larger:
Light colors on the floor and the walls will open up the room. Instead of replacing darker flooring, cover it with a bright rug.
Create a monochromatic color scheme with light-colored accents that match the floor and walls.
Brighten up the space More ... |
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| The Value of Virtual Tours 12/22/2007 8:56:30 AM |
| | As part of its aggressive marketing plan, Buy Owner is proud to offer high-quality virtual tours online.
Why are virtual tours important, and what do they do?
1. They stick
Buyers usually look through many properties as part of a home search, so these homes may blend together without some sort of memory aid. Virtual tours add stickiness to the viewing by giving the buyer a simulated tour of the property.
2. They amplify
Complementing the textual descriptions written about a property, More ... |
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| 10 Ways to Create More Space in Bedrooms 12/21/2007 7:01:03 AM |
| | There are plenty of easy ways to add space without remodeling your entire home. This four-part series zeroes in on specific ideas that open up your home's interior.
Take a look at these ideas for enlargening your bedrooms:
Instead of having a bed stick out in the center of the room, try a different furniture arrangement with the bed pushed up against the wall.
Choosing furniture low to the ground provides clear sight lines across the room.
Light paint in a soothing, neutral shade will More ... |
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| Prep Work for Moving to a New City 12/20/2007 8:14:46 AM |
| | Relocating to a new city can be tough, especially when you have never been there before, and everything is brand-new to you: the city streets, the bus routes, the neighbors, etc.
Whether you've landed a new job out of state, or you are just looking for a fresh start, there are a lot of ways to familiarize yourself with a new setting.
Maps
Maps come in all shapes and sizes. From the extra-large map to the one that never seems to refold correctly to a pocket-sized pop-up, you can find them More ... |
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| 10 Ways to Create More Space in the Main Living Areas 12/19/2007 6:52:55 AM |
| | There are plenty of easy ways to add space without remodeling your entire home. This four-part series zeroes in on specific ideas that open up your home's interior.
Looking to enlargen your dining, living, and family rooms? Consider these ideas:
Eliminate unnecessary furniture that just takes up space.
Arrange furniture against the wall to provide more floor space and to have one room flow into the next.
Use multifunctional furniture that can serve more than purpose. For example, an More ... |
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| Why Staging Works 12/18/2007 6:37:55 AM |
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Staging is about emotion. It’s about creating a sensory experience for buyers that will so impress them, they don’t just like or desire your property; they are in love with and have to have it. Staging doesn’t just tell the buyer about the home or ask for a little imagination; it puts all the pieces in place, leaving no detail out. It makes it easy for the buyer to make an offer; in fact, it makes it hard not to.
If you’re unfamiliar with the world of staging, this may sound too good to be More ... |
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| 10 Ways to Create More Space in the Kitchen 12/17/2007 9:17:27 AM |
| | There are plenty of easy ways to add space without remodeling your entire home. Welcome to a four-part series that zeroes in on specific ways to open up your home's interior.
Overall tip: Especially when working with a small area, the first thing you want to do is eliminate all the clutter.
Hang pots and pans on overhead pot racks to free up cabinet, counter, and drawer space.
Pullout drawers can be tucked away to conceal items, providing a clean, clutter-free look.
Drawer inserts allow More ... |
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| What Movers Won't Move 12/16/2007 6:14:44 AM |
| | Moving into your new home? Planning to use movers?Before you grab those boxes and tape, there are a few things you should know about what movers won't transport.
1. PETS
If you have any pets, you need to make arrangements for their move since movers will not transport them. A federal regulation prohibits moving companies from transferring any animals in moving vans, so plan on taking your pets with you. If you will be traveling for several hours, make sure you don't pack items your pet will More ... |
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| Why Descriptions Matter 12/14/2007 8:38:23 AM |
| | If you're new to Buy Owner marketing, you might be surprised to find full-paragraph home descriptions at the Buy Owner site.
This is quite unlike the quick, abbreviated, hard-to-understand real estate code of most real estate ads:
(Think "fu fin bsmt" or "obo" or "mbs/off.")
Buy Owner property descriptions are feature-packed, complete sentences, written by professional writers.
Why are these descriptions important?
THEY GIVE MORE INFO TO BUYERS
Picture this: You're searching online More ... |
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| Add Value: A Home Office 12/12/2007 8:02:30 AM |
| | When your home's on the market, you want to do everything possible to maximize value.
Ever considered adding a home office? HGTV lists having a home office as one top feature that increases a home’s value. With more and more people working from home, buyers delight in the idea of an extra room or space that can be dedicated as a work environment.
Adding a home office will be an easy way to increase value and interest from buyers, and it probably won’t cost you much either.
Already have More ... |
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| Clean Out Your Closet! 12/11/2007 7:03:05 AM |
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Did you know eliminating clutter from your home is one of the most cost-efficient, effective ways to improve its perceived value to buyers? In exchange for your effort, your home will seem larger, filled with potential, and much more desirable to viewers.
Think decluttering your home is too daunting a task? Try choosing just one thing and focusing on it.
Small steps are better than no steps at all.
FACT: Did you know that most people don't wear all the clothes in their closets? In fact, More ... |
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| Rethinking Curb Appeal 12/8/2007 6:54:09 AM |
| | Let's be honest: when you've been driving up to your home for months, years or even decades, it can be hard to imagine the exterior looking any other way. You're used to its appearance, even with the imperfections and the unusual touches. That's just the way it is, and you've been happy with it, so someone else will be, too. Right?
Well, maybe. The fact is that your home's outside appearance--the way it looks to those driving by or to potential buyers arriving for a showing--is too important More ... |
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| Closing Costs 12/7/2007 7:44:55 AM |
| | What are closing costs? Simply put, they are the actual expenses incurred in the origination of a new home loan.
They traditionally fall to the buyer, but sellers, take note: it is possible you may end up paying some or all of the following fees in your home sale. You may be required to do so, or you may choose to offer closing costs coverage as an incentive in negotiations.
Potentially applicable fees include:
LENDER-RELATED FEES:
Title Service Fees: title search and title insurance
Unpaid More ... |
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| 3 Reasons Your Home Isn't Selling 12/6/2007 7:50:33 AM |
| | With your Buy Owner advertising, your home is showcased to a national audience of potential buyers. You’ve custom-designed your marketing package with the help of a qualified consultant, highlighting your home’s features, appearance, and location.
Now, after your ad is just the way you want it and it’s available to view, you are left waiting for the buyer. Maybe you’ve been bombarded with calls since your ad went live, or maybe you’ve had just a few trickle in. What does this mean? And, more More ... |
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| FSBO and Fluffy: Selling a Home When Pets Are Involved 12/5/2007 7:27:51 AM |
| | If you are a pet owner who is trying to sell your home, there are a few important things you must be sure to do:
Clean all carpets and floors.
Make sure to remove any stains your pets may have left.
Repair or replace anything that may have been damaged by your pet.
Get rid of the odor. Even if you can't smell it, it's there.
Vacuum every single day, more than you think is necessary.
Check the front and back yards for pet droppings.
Remember, not everyone is a dog or cat lover, and More ... |
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| When Are You Ready to Buy Your First Home? 12/4/2007 7:33:20 AM |
| | 1. When you know what you want
Some things you may already know—how many bedrooms you need, what kind of a commute you’re willing to deal with—but some things might come up as you search. Browse through properties at www.buyowner.com and see the many home options. Prepare a list—even if just in your mind—of non-negotiables and things you’d like but could compromise on.
2. When you know what you can spend
Buy Owner’s mortgage partner, Guaranteed Rate, provides mortgage calculators online to More ... |
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| Selling during Winter: Some Helpful Tips 12/3/2007 6:30:22 AM |
| | Depending on where you're located, winter might seem like the worst time to put your home up for sale. The air is cold, the ground is covered with snow and daylight hours are shorter. But selling your home during the winter doesn't have to be an impossible task. In fact, you can use it as an opportunity to set your home apart from all the others. Here are some tips for beating the winter blues.
Safety first
Make sure that walkways are salted and snow is shoveled. Nothing makes for a worse More ... |
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| The Buy Owner Difference 12/2/2007 5:48:58 AM |
| | Many "For Sale by Owner" companies make a lot of claims. Yet none of them provide the same coverage, service and resources that Buy Owner offers.
How can you tell the difference? Ask these questions:
Do qualified marketing consultants visit your home to help you design your customized advertisement?
Does the company publicize outside the "by owner" market?
Is it a household name?
Does your advertising include a 24/7 property hotline that provides a full description of your property?
Is More ... |
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| Cleaning Up Quickly 12/1/2007 7:25:12 AM |
| | It happens to all of us: That last-minute phone call from a relative who just happens to be in the area and wants to stop by. With hardly any warning, you have to turn your disheveled dwelling into an immaculate abode. Well, this scenario could also happen when you're trying to sell your home. Ideally, your house will be spic-and-span at all times when it's up for sale. But we all know that we don't live in a perfect world. We live in a world full of soccer games, dance recitals and late-night work More ... |
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| Why Buy Buy Owner? 11/30/2007 5:55:15 AM |
| | This one's for the buyers: when you're looking for a new home, you have a lot of options. Today's market is all about you. So why should you choose to buy a Buy Owner home? Take a look at these six reasons, which just scratch the surface of the Buy Owner value:
1. National service: You can search for a home throughout the country, no matter your location. We do not limit our ads by region or state.
2. Easy access to property information: You can view the online ad anytime, day or night, from More ... |
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| Eliminating Odors 11/28/2007 7:16:47 AM |
| | "Peeyew!" "What is that smell?" "Oh, yuck!"
Do you hear these comments every time someone walks in your door? Could it be that you have a severe odor problem in your home? Well, have no fear. Here are several tricks to help you sweeten the smell of your house.
DON'T JUST MASK IT
There are a number of products and sprays available that claim to eliminate household odors, but the truth is most of them simply mask the smells. Truth also is that a lot of those products contain potentially dangerous More ... |
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| The Mistake You Can't Afford to Make 11/26/2007 8:07:53 AM |
| | Ask yourself how much your home is worth, and you may tend to see things in terms of personal history.
Especially if you've lived there for a while, it will be hard to look at things objectively. There's the garden you planted, the hardwood flooring you hand-installed, and the years of memories that no one can put a price tag on.
But, the truth is, when it comes to pricing your home, you have to look at this objectively. Sure, there's a buyer out there who will love your home as much as you More ... |
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| When the Buyer Calls 11/25/2007 7:26:12 AM |
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Once your Buy Owner ad is active, you may be surprised at how quickly prospective buyers contact you. Keep in mind that you have a distinct advantage over agent-listed homes: the buyer will call YOU directly and have no middle man to go through. What this also means, though, is that what you say to the buyer is very important. You want to be prepared with the right questions and information so that you can guide an interested buyer into becoming the right buyer.
Ask if they've prequalified More ... |
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| Creating a Backyard Oasis 11/24/2007 6:29:59 AM |
| | If you are a homeowner, chances are you've heard the term "backyard oasis" before. Backyards have become a big selling point for people looking to purchase a home. Whether you are going to be selling your home or you just want to enjoy your yard to its full potential, here are some pointers for creating a relaxing backyard retreat.
All decked out
A backyard deck offers the perfect place to entertain guests. Consider adding a wood deck or a brick or concrete patio, or expanding an existing More ... |
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| 31 Moving Day Tips 11/23/2007 11:00:46 AM |
| | You've prepared and planned. You've organized and simplified. Now it's time for the big day: you're moving. Keep these tips in mind to make your day run smoothly.
Have everything packed and ready to go.
Be flexible: things rarely happen exactly as we'd planned.
Make sure you have your overnight/necessities bag: clothes, toiletries, important paperwork, cleaning supplies, towels, toilet paper, etc.
Prepare an emergency pack that includes a first aid kit, paper towels, a flashlight, tools More ... |
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| Two Ways to Sell When Out-of-Town 11/21/2007 6:01:43 AM |
| | Showing your home is convenient when you're still living there or somewhere nearby. However, if you plan on taking a small vacation, or if you are purchasing a home out of state, and need to travel to finalize the moving process, how do you show your home while you are out of town? Consider these options:
1. The Buy Owner Website
Before you leave, make sure that you are happy with your Buy Owner ad. Does it highlight the most important aspects of your property? Your neighborhood? Another thing More ... |
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| 10 DON'Ts for Dealing with Potential Buyers 11/20/2007 9:36:26 AM |
| | (This is part two of a two-part series.)
1. DON'T delay in returning calls
A prompt return of a phone call shows respect and shows that you care about that buyer. Wait too long and the buyer will probably call someone else.
2. DON'T skimp on customer service
Make callbacks and send postcards to potential buyers, thanking them for their interest.
3. DON'T discuss price with buyers who haven't even seen your home
Encourage them to come see the property, and arrange a showing as More ... |
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| 10 DOs for Dealing with Potential Buyers 11/19/2007 7:29:55 AM |
| | (This is part one of a two-part series.)
When dealing with potential buyers, be sure to keep these DOs in mind.
1. DO screen callers
Ask if they are qualified and find out how far along in the process they are. Are they looking to buy immediately, or are they just looking?
2. DO get contact information
When a potential buyer calls and expresses interest in the home, make sure to get a name and a contact phone number.
3. DO be prepared for questions
Be knowledgeable about More ... |
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| Selling Tip: Create Flyers 11/17/2007 10:44:36 AM |
| | A recent article we highlighted, "25 Tricks for Drawing Buyers", suggested creating flyers that showcase your home.
Creating flyers is a great way to promote the sale of your home. The Buy Owner Seller Tools allow you to create three styles of flyers in any of six different colors. You choose the design, the content, and the color scheme. You can include bullet points about your property and use your existing professional description, or create your own description specific to your flyer.
The More ... |
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| Fair Housing Guidelines 11/12/2007 1:00:38 PM |
| | Did you know that the Fair Housing Act regulates the language used in real estate advertising? According to Fair Housing guidelines, home advertising cannot say anything that could be conveyed as discriminatory or exclusionary in any way.
Seven classes are protected by the Fair Housing Act:
Race
Color
Religion
National Origin
Sex
Handicap
Familial Status
To give you an idea of how this works in day-to-day advertising, here is a list of terms that we always refrain from using.
Sports-minded
Bachelor More ... |
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| 25 Extra Tricks for Drawing Buyers 11/9/2007 8:16:36 AM |
| | When you're selling your home with Buy Owner, your property receives a premium marketing plan, which could include up to all of the following options (not all options available with all plans):
National advertising on the Buy Owner website
Appearance in Buy Owner Magazine
Talking yard sign
Participation in the computer matchmaking system
Toll-free number
Stunning photographs of the exterior, interior, and community
Descriptive text that highlights your home's features
Professional, More ... |
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| Writing Quality Captions 11/8/2007 3:51:33 PM |
| | As a Buy Owner seller, your advertising packet may feature showcase-worthy, professional photographs with possibility for captions. If you are writing your own captions, you will want to focus on targeting buyer interest by providing key information.
The most important thing to do when creating captions is to put yourself in the buyer's shoes. Potential buyers will most often view your photographs in a cycle:
Quick Glance: A momentary look provides them with the most obvious information available. More ... |
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| Preparing for a Showing 11/7/2007 3:31:51 PM |
| | Once you have made the decision to sell your home on your own, the next step is to prepare the home for showing.
1. Get Rid of All the Stuff (See article: Tidy Up).
By clearing out the overstuffed closets, the jammed crawlspace, and the packed garage, you not only make your house appear larger, but you also make it easier to move once the home does sell. Also make sure the front of your home looks clean. Check out the landscaping and give it a little pruning if necessary. It isn't a bad More ... |
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| Tip: Tidy Up the House! 11/6/2007 2:08:33 PM |
| | Imagine looking through for-sale homes online. You come across a beautiful home with amazing curb appeal. It's the home of your dreams! You click through the photos thinking that this could be the place you want to rest your head for a long time, but then you find images of messy, disorganized, cluttered rooms.Now picture potential buyers, viewing your home online and falling in love with your property. They start thinking about how they are going to put their own personal, decorative touches in More ... |
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| Negotiating Tips 11/5/2007 4:00:57 PM |
| | Think of it this way: Your effort to negotiate the best transaction from buyers begins the moment they walk in the door. Before the paperwork is even drawn up and before an offer is on the table, you are subtly giving cues that will allow them to determine an initial offer and to influence their willingness to negotiate.
Recognizing this reality and planning ahead puts you in control and affords you the most power possible in the deal. So before you show your home, before you are faced with questions, More ... |
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| Cost-Efficient Ways to Add Value 11/4/2007 8:09:08 AM |
| | Maximum impact for minimum cost: that's what you want when you're preparing your home for sale, and that's what these budget-friendly renovations offer. Simple, inexpensive and often easy, these low-cost, high-impact changes are worth considering.
1. CLEAN-UP
All of your home's strong points will be overshadowed by dirty, cluttered rooms. In fact, most buyers will be immediately turned off by a house in disarray. Radically improving your home's appeal, a thorough cleaning makes all the difference. More ... |
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| Multiple Offers: A Good Problem to Have 11/3/2007 1:03:06 PM |
| | Receiving more than one offer on your home is a problem that every home seller wants to have. Sure, it's certainly something to celebrate. But before you kick back and pop open the champagne, you have a decision to make. Going for the most money may seem like the obvious choice, but it's not necessarily that easy. While it's natural to be attracted to the offer with the highest price, it's important to realize that the highest offer isn't always the best offer. You might choose to accept a lower More ... |
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| 4 Steps to Start Packing 11/2/2007 12:31:40 PM |
| | Now that the house is on the market and you got rid of the unwanted junk, it should be easy to start packing. Anticipating a quick sale will protect you from having to pack quickly and inefficiently.
Step One: Find a Work Area
The first thing to do is pick a room or an area that isn't used a lot. Start in the guest bedroom or in the play room. Grab some boxes, tape, and markers, put on some music and get started.
Step Two: Pack What You Can
If all your rooms are regularly used, take More ... |
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| 7 Plan-Ahead Packing Tips 10/25/2007 8:07:05 PM |
| | Let's face it: a move is a major life event, and it can be stressful. That's why every bit of prep work counts in reducing last-minute pressure. Think of each completed task as one step towards a smoother transition. A little work ahead of time = a little less work later.
To make your change as stress-free as possible, it's a good idea to begin preparing as early as two months before your actual move date. Here are some specific ways you can plan ahead:
1. Do some spring cleaning: Go through More ... |
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| Smile for the Camera: Staging your Home 10/16/2007 2:03:07 PM |
| | Staging your home for sale goes beyond a few basic repairs and a fresh coat of paint--you are dressing your home for a date with its potential new owner.
While countless designers are focused on professional home staging, there are plenty of ways to enrich and enliven the look of your home, on your own, with a few simple adjustments.
The key to perfect staging is to please all of the senses, making your home both photo-friendly and welcoming to visitors, while keeping simplicity in mind.
Create More ... |
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| Selling in a Buyers' Market 10/10/2007 12:49:09 PM |
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Simply put, a buyers’ market exists when there are more homes for sale than buyers to purchase them. In this situation, buyers can take their pick of quality homes, with more options and more negotiating power. Home prices tend to be lower, and properties tend to stay on the market longer. While this is great news for homebuyers, it’s a problem for sellers.
As a savvy seller, you need to proactively market your home to stay at the top of the playing field. Homeowners who sell homes quickly instinctively More ... |
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| Tip : Cooler weather is perfect for an open house. 10/8/2007 7:28:25 AM |
| | Everyone knows that an open house is a great way to attract buyers to your home. The cooler weather makes it more comfortable for buyers to get out and visit open houses in their areas. Nicer weather also gives you, the seller, the opportunity to open up the home and show the potential buyer how airy your home can be. You'd be surprised how many buyers love a cross breeze.
As a Buy Owner® seller, you can set up open houses online using your Seller Dashboard. Simply log into your account and select More ... |
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