

Broken Windows. It seems minor, but a cracked window that you have no problem ignoring is a big deal to many appraisers. They view it as a source of heat loss and p...

Imagining your dream home is one thing; actually finding it is something else. Compromise is a part of the buying process, so knowing what your top priorities are ahead of time will help you stay on track when purchasing a home.
Since most home shoppers now search for properties online, discovering the true value of a REALTOR® begins when you spot that "perfect one" and want to take a closer look. Your agent will help you with everything from connecting you with a lender for pre-approval to researching property history to negotiating the deal. But before you even tour a single house, your REALTOR® can save you time and hassle by learning more about you, your needs, and what constitutes your perfect home.
With some astute questioning, your real estate agent can drill down to the essential elements, sorting out the "would likes" from t...

Clear your clutter by at least half. With few exceptions, we all have accumulated extra things, and over time, we become blind to them. But you can be sure the camera – and potential buyers – will notice. Take a look at your home with a critical eye, or else bring a friend over to help. In each room, pull things from the corners, the shelves and the side tables into the middl...

It's been said that everyone knows at least three real estate agents. While that may not always be the case, choosing the right agent to help you sell a house can be a tough choice. Look beyond their commission rate, and ask yourself these questions to make your decision easier.
Do they really know the area? Whether they're new or not, they should have plenty of local knowledge. This is important when dealing with questions of school district, property taxes, planned changes to the community, or local ordinances. Someone who is thoroughly familiar with the area, and fond of it, will better convey that enthusiasm when marketing your home to potential buyers.
Are they easy to communicate with? Real estate agents have lives too, keeping b...