Showing posts with label homeowner tips. Show all posts
Showing posts with label homeowner tips. Show all posts

Tuesday, July 26, 2016

Common Reasons Northern Virginia Homeowners Overprice Their Homes

With home sales rising and home prices following suit, many Northern Virginia residents have begun the process of listing their properties to take advantage of this exciting time in the market. But one common disconnect between homeowners and their agents is the price at which they believe they should list the property. 

 The price homeowners have in mind is oftentimes not realistic for the local market and takes into account a variety of factors including their emotional ties to the home. Finding a comfortable price for you can be a major obstacle when selling your home and you may need to compromise— just take a look at these common reasons homeowners overprice their homes in Northern Virginia:

 You think your decor is the best
Naturally, your home in NoVA will represent your unique tastes and style, but keep in mind that it may not do the same for other buyers. Your knick-knacks, bright colors on the walls and large furniture items can get in the way of buyers envisioning themselves living in the home, so take care to scale back on these during the selling process.

 You have emotional ties
Homeowners who have lived in a property for several years will develop emotional ties to the home, especially if you've raised your family there. In your mind, the home's worth may be far more than what buyers are willing to pay, so remind yourself to be realistic and remove your homeowner hat. It's important to look at the property as a buyer, without emotional ties, in order to find an accurate price.

 You want to make a major profit
Who doesn't want to make a profit when selling their NoVA home? This may tempt you to drive up the price, but don't be too hasty. Your home value is dependent on the current market, comparable properties and its condition. Just because you need a specific amount of money from the sale to purchase your next dream home does not mean you can or will sell your home for that amount.

 Questions about selling your home in NoVA? Give me a call today!

 I happily serve the areas of Alexandria, Annandale, Arlington, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Clifton, Fairfax City, Falls Church, Great Falls, Herndon, Lake Ridge, McLean, Mount Vernon, Reston, Rosslyn, Springfield, Tyson’s Corner and Vienna. 
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Tuesday, July 19, 2016

What You Need to Know About Homeowner's Insurance in Northern Virginia

When you buy a new home in Northern Virginia, one of the next steps you take will be protecting it with homeowner's insurance. However, this can be a major source of stress for first-time buyers who have never navigated the process before. 

 But don't worry! As your local real estate expert in NoVA, I've included answers to a few common insurance questions below so you can cross this task off of your list of homeownership to-do's!

 Question: How much will I pay every month?

 Your monthly payment is determined by the following:

  • Your credit score
  • Your home's location and age
  • The costs to rebuild your home
  • Your distance to a fire department and hydrant
  • Your pets— certain breeds may mean you need more coverage
  • How much coverage you choose
  • Your claims history

Question: What is covered by my insurance?

 Typically, homeowner's insurance policies include coverage for damage by fire, hail, lightning, vandalism, windstorms and the like. Water damage is also commonly covered, whether it be from burst or frozen pipes. But be aware, earthquake and flood damage may not be included and could require a separate policy.

 Question: Do I need to secure insurance before I buy a home?

 You do not technically need to purchase homeowner's insurance before you buy a home, but your lender may require proof of your insurance before you can secure your loan. 

 Question: How much coverage will I need?

 Your coverage will be based on your assets and their value. It may help to take inventory of your home, writing down each item and how much you paid for it. Keep this inventory list in a safety deposit box or other safe area outside of your home in order to access it in case of emergency or loss. This list will also help your insurance agent determine how much coverage you need.

 Do not hesitate to contact me with any questions you have about buying a home in Northern Virginia this year! I can help you find the best home and assist with your timeline to becoming a homeowner. I look forward to hearing from you!

 I happily serve the areas of Alexandria, Annandale, Arlington, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Clifton, Fairfax City, Falls Church, Great Falls, Herndon, Lake Ridge, McLean, Mount Vernon, Reston, Rosslyn, Springfield, Tyson’s Corner and Vienna. 
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Tuesday, June 14, 2016

3 Things to Do Before Buying Fixer Upper Homes in Northern Virginia

So, you think you want to buy a fixer upper home? While your dreams of renovating a property may be driven by what you've seen on television shows, it's important to remember that the reality of updating a home from start to finish can be much more time-consuming, tedious, expensive and drawn-out than you realize.

 As your local real estate expert in the Northern Virginia and DC area, I am sharing below three things to do before you commit to buying a fixer upper home this year:

Research the location
Not only should you research the location of a home before purchasing, but also look into the zoning. What you may not know is that every community has zoning districts and restrictions surrounding what can and cannot be done to homes within their limits. You will want to take a close look at the zoning of your future property before you become too set on what renovations you will do once you get the keys.

 Speak with a contractor
Unless you are confident in your ability to do all of the work on your fixer upper home yourself, it is wise to speak with a contractor or architect who can assist you in carrying out your vision. One rule of thumb— gather quotes and opinions from several contractors in the area prior to choosing one for your projects.

 Bring a home inspector on board
It is a home inspector's job to look into any structural problems, in addition to pointing out what needs to be replaced— the roof, for instance. The last thing you want when you begin your renovation projects is to find that your foundation is unstable or a major operating system like the plumbing has failed. If you need recommendations for a home inspector in your area, do not hesitate to reach out! Remember, your real estate agent is a wealth of resources!

 Feel free to give me a call with any questions you have about buying a home in the NoVA area! With my decades of expertise, we can find the perfect home for your needs!

 I happily serve the areas of Alexandria, Annandale, Arlington, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Clifton, Fairfax City, Falls Church, Great Falls, Herndon, Lake Ridge, McLean, Mount Vernon, Reston, Rosslyn, Springfield, Tyson’s Corner and Vienna. 
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Tuesday, June 7, 2016

Getting Your Northern Virginia Home Ready for a Showing in Minutes

When you've decided to list your home in Northern Virginia, it may seem like your to-do list grows longer and longer. You will need to start searching for a new home, clearing the clutter and packing up to make your move a bit easier when the time comes. But it doesn't end there! One more added stress for you may be keeping your home buyer-ready for showings.

 There are dozens of little tasks you can check off to prepare your home for a showing in minutes and as your local real estate expert in NoVA, I am sharing a few with you below!

 Mop or vacuum
Complete a quick cleaning of the floors in your entryway, kitchen and bathrooms. If necessary, spot clean debris on the floor with a sponge or towel.

 Dust screens and furniture
The last thing a buyer wants to see if dust lingering in the air or on your furniture. Dust your coffee table or end tables, TV screens and computer monitors before they arrive.

 Remove clutter from counters
Small appliances, knick knacks, mail and other miscellaneous items should be cleared off of counters and stored elsewhere. After you've removed these, wipe down all of the counters to ensure they are clean.

 Make the beds
This task takes just a few minutes and can make a world of difference in helping a room look put together. 

 Empty trash cans
You do not want any lingering odors in your home when buyers arrive for a showing, so make sure all trash cans have been emptied.

 Turn on the lights
Letting light into your Northern Virginia home can help it feel lighter, airier and larger. Turn on all of the lights in your home and open the blinds or drapes to let in more sun. If necessary, clean your windows so they are free of streaks.

 I have years of experience in helping homeowners sell their properties and move on to their next dream homes in Northern Virginia! I was even named a Top Real Estate Agent to Have on Your Side by Washingtonian Magazine!

 Give me a call today!

 I happily serve the areas of Alexandria, Annandale, Arlington, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Clifton, Fairfax City, Falls Church, Great Falls, Herndon, Lake Ridge, McLean, Mount Vernon, Reston, Rosslyn, Springfield, Tyson’s Corner and Vienna. 
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Tuesday, May 10, 2016

Why May Is the Best Month to Sell Your Northern Virginia Home

Homeowners in Northern Virginia have many decisions to make when it comes to selling their property, but one that I'm happy to answer is when to list. The timing surrounding the listing of your NoVA home is important and as it turns out, this month is idyllic. 

 May is one of the best times to sell your home— with homes typically selling faster and for more than the national average. If you've been considering listing your home in Alexandria, Arlington, Chantilly, Falls Church, or the surrounding areas, below are three reasons why you might like to consider this month:

School is almost finished
Many homeowners base their move around the school year and with school almost finished for the year, now is the time to make it happen. Moving before the end of the summer allows homeowners to avoid changing school districts mid-term and settle in before the new year begins.

 The weather is favorable for moving
Late spring and early summer bring a wave of warmer weather that we've been missing for months and for homeowners, that means excellent moving conditions. Few desire to move in the snow and rain, but May presents a prime opportunity to move in the clear, cool temperatures.

Tax season has just ended
As I mentioned in a previous blog post, tax refunds offer homeowners the option to either channel the money back into their property with upgrades or in this case, into a new property altogether. Homeowners listing their property this month have the opportunity to put their refund to use as a down payment and to cover closing costs on their new home.

 Do not hesitate to contact me with any questions about selling your NoVA home this year! I'm here to help!
I happily serve the areas of Alexandria, Annandale, Arlington, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Clifton, Fairfax City, Falls Church, Great Falls, Herndon, Lake Ridge, McLean, Mount Vernon, Reston, Rosslyn, Springfield, Tyson’s Corner and Vienna. 
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Tuesday, April 26, 2016

3 Hassles to Avoid When Moving to a New Northern Virginia Home

Moving to a new home in Northern Virginia can be a stressful process, no matter what time of year it is. In fact, failing to do enough research before your move can cause even more problems that will dampen your excitement about your fresh, new start. 

 As your local NoVA real estate expert, I am sharing three common moving hassles that can throw a wrench into new homeowner plans for an easy transition. Each of these can be avoided with enough planning and research, so you will want to begin long before Moving Day!

 1. Not Researching the Moving Company
When you're choosing a moving company to help shuffle your belongings from home to home, it is important to do the background work. Gather recommendations from family and friends, or even your real estate agent, on the best team for the job. Checking references and reading all customer reviews can also offer insight into the abilities of the moving team.

 2. Not Reading the Moving Contract
Go over every line of the moving contract prior to signing on the dotted line. Oftentimes, these contracts come with fine print and disclaimers and you do not want any surprises on Moving Day! Make sure you are aware of what happens if something breaks, damages or goes missing during the move, as well as any additional costs you could be required to pay.

 3. Not Allowing Enough Time
This is perhaps one of the biggest (and most common!) moving hassles— and one that could be easily avoided! Start as early as possible with your moving preparations. Begin clearing out all clothing and items that have gone unused and take a trip to donate them. Pull everything out of cupboards, cabinets, storage and the garage to make sure you're not moving anything unnecessary. 

 Organize everything into labeled boxes and take care to only place items that belong in that respective room or area in the box. The last thing you want is a lost toothbrush on your first night in your new NoVA home!
I happily serve the areas of Alexandria, Annandale, Arlington, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Clifton, Fairfax City, Falls Church, Great Falls, Herndon, Lake Ridge, McLean, Mount Vernon, Reston, Rosslyn, Springfield, Tyson’s Corner and Vienna. 
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Tuesday, April 12, 2016

What Exactly Is Curb Appeal for a Northern Virginia Home?

When selling your home in Northern Virginia, one term you may have heard time and time again is curb appeal. But what exactly is curb appeal for a NoVA home and does it really make a difference?

 Think in terms of first impressions. What is the first thing you notice when you are browsing homes for sale in Alexandria, Arlington, Annandale, Falls Church, Herndon, McLean, Springfield and the surrounding communities? Most likely the listing photos you found online and the exterior of the home. It is the exterior of the home that will force homebuyers to decide if they would like to view the inside and ultimately, set up a showing to view in person.

 Buyers may never step foot inside the door if you cannot wow them first in listing photos. Curb appeal is the landscaping, paint color, mailbox, front door and exterior walkways that really make these photos pop. If a buyer doesn't like what they see from the curb, they may decide to move on to the next house.

 So what can you do as a NoVA home seller to grab and keep buyer interest this spring and summer? Below are three tips for creating intriguing curb appeal:

 Clean Up
A well-manicured lawn that is not strewn with broken branches, leaves and overgrown weeds or flowers shows a buyer that you care about your home. It will also give them the idea that you've probably maintained the inside as well. While you're on clean-up duty, take the time to power wash your home's exterior, sidewalks and driveway to remove any dirt or grime that has accumulated over the past months.

 Focus on Landscaping
Seeding a lawn that has become sparse or patchy, trimming shrubs and bushes, removing weeds, mulching plant beds and planting new flowers are all ways to draw a buyer's eye to your NoVA home. You might even consider installing window boxes or placing pots on either side of your front door to create a focal point in the entryway.

Choose Paint Colors
One of the best ways to give your curb appeal a quick boost is painting. Give the front door a fresh coat of paint in a new color or take on the project of painting the entire house. Look at what other colors are common on your street and when in doubt, stick to a neutral, traditional palette.

I happily serve the areas of Alexandria, Annandale, Arlington, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Clifton, Fairfax City, Falls Church, Great Falls, Herndon, Lake Ridge, McLean, Mount Vernon, Reston, Rosslyn, Springfield, Tyson’s Corner and Vienna. 
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