Jim Valentine on Real Estate
It’s the time of year when we effect our seasonal changes. A long fall has delayed this to some extent, but Christmas and winter weather are almost here. Is your house ready? If you are going to market your home through the winter be sure to get the landscaping ready as well as the inside of the house.
Blow or rake the leaves in your gardens and lawn. If you have tall grasses, lavender or hedges, be sure to trim them so they look groomed. Even though they go dormant, you’ll want them to look nice for a prospective buyer.
If you decorate for Christmas, watch where you run your extension cords. If you cross a sidewalk, tape the cord down so no one trips on it when they look at your home. Don’t overload your circuits. If they spark or blow a breaker, your showing could be compromised.
Inside decorations beautify a home as only Christmas preparation can do. Don’t be afraid to show your home this time of it – it will be looking at its finest and will create a family atmosphere for buyers. Tis the season for love and caring.
It’s that time of year and they just might find a Christmas present in the purchase of your home, keep it open for them during the holiday and you may get a present as well – the sale of your home.
Winter is here so you sure should have your hoses disconnected from the spigots. If you think you’ll need the hose, occasionally be sure to drain it or it could be ice clogged when you go to use it. If you’ve got tools about the property, remember to elevate them or put them in a protected environment.
If you get more than a skiff of snow it could present challenges if you need those tools, and they are covered with white stuff. For showings, be sure to keep pathways cleared. This is especially true on the north side of the house where the sun doesn’t always reach the surface this time of year.
Remember to clear a walkway on the deck if you’ve a view they should experience from it. If you have nice spring, summer or fall pictures of green, flowers and leaf coloration be sure to put some out on a table or counter.
You can also give them to your agent to put into the MLS system for all to see. This gives them the opportunity to envision what the home and grounds look like throughout the year. This is especially important for out-of-town buyers.
Don’t worry about extreme weather showings. If a buyer wants to see your house on a hot day or in the middle of a snowstorm welcome them. Buyers willing to experience some personal discomfort while looking at a home are real.
The lookie-loo types will cancel their viewing, but the serious lookers have a mission to accomplish and will work to get it done. Give them fond memories of your home and you might just be moving to start the new year.
Some buyers want to see the area at its “worst.” That can mean the heat of summer, or the chill of winter and all it brings. We love our four seasons and anybody looking to move here should be ready to as well. It is part of the character of Northern Nevada.
Winter weather and Christmas showings – a magical time. Serious buyers aren’t looking for their search to be interrupted by holidays regardless of how much they love their holiday. They have something to accomplish so help them be making your home readily available and looking good.
When it comes to choosing professionals to assist you with your Real Estate needs… Experience is Priceless! Jim Valentine, License No. BS-03481, RE/MAX Gold Carson Valley, 775-781-3704, dpwtigers@hotmail.com.