In This Issue
Play It Up Tis The Season A New You
We are pleased to present you with the latest issue of Life@Home. Delivered to home buyers, sellers and owners on a monthly basis, this electronic newsletter is designed to give you the real estate information that is important to you. In each issue, you will find practical tips and articles related to buying, selling or owning a home, as well as the latest news on real estate trends. We hope that you enjoy this issue of Life@Home. If we can be of any assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Play It Up
A playroom can be a great asset. It's a spot kids can call their own and a space where you can store their things like books, toys, crafts, dress-up clothes.
But the attributes that make such a room attractive, can also make it hard to manage when it comes time to sell. How do you make a room that is often a catch-all, attractive and appealing when buyers come calling?
The key is organization. Start with a good purge. Identify things your children have outgrown and donate them or give them to friends with younger children. If there are items that have sentimental value, like a favorite infant toy, pack them away.
The decision to involve your children is a personal one. Children often have trouble saying goodbye to their belongings, even if they don't play with them anymore. You may want to sort through the items on your own. Afterward, explain to the kids what you have done. Ask them to look through the box and let them choose one or two things they want to keep. Emphasize that to make rom for new belongings, they have to part with those they no longer use.
If an argument ensues, you may agree to store the items for a certain period. If the toys are not used or requested during that time, agree to donate them to a good cause.
Once you have organized the playthings, create a system. Keep books in a designated area and put building blocks, craft items in plastic storage boxes. When everything is in its place, make sure the system meets their needs. Once everyone is in agreement, talk about how you will keep the room looking great while the house is on the market. Everyone needs to share in the responsibility of keeping the room up to par.
Tis The Season
Buying a home in the winter months requires some additional attention. If a home heating system fails during the coldest parts of the year it can be an emergency in many parts of the country. In other parts of the nation, winter-time rains and the potential damage from run off is the bigger concern.
The results of your home inspection might highlight areas that should be tackled immediately. In addition, ake the time to address these more seasonal concerns.
Many New Year's resolutions involve getting fit. Once you start, the key is staying motivated. You can improve your chance for success by choosing an exercise you enjoy. Don't be afraid to think outside the box. if treadmills aren't for you, try gardening, dancing or dog walking to burn calories!1. Assess the condition of your home heating system. If it is an older unit consider replacing it. If that expense is not in your budget, devise an emergency plan should it fail. Ask neighbors or new acquaintances for the name of a reputable HV/AC company you can call in an urgent situation. In the meantime, make sure all vents are unobstructed. It is also a good idea to have ducts professionally cleaned to boost winter air quality indoors.
2. When it comes to lessening the effect of rain water run off, the key is slope. The ground around the foundation should slope downward 1/2 inch for every foot as you move outward. Gutters, which should be kept debris free, should gradually slope toward downspouts. Downspouts should slope along the ground and discharge at least six feet away from the house.
With forethought and strategic planning, winter-time damage and home-related headaches can be avoided.
