Posts with tag 'Selling a Home'
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27
Ten Home Features Buyers Are Looking For Now
Seller's market though it is, the buyers are the ones spending the money. Unless they're in a position where they must purchase quickly, most buyers will hold out for a home with the features they really want. Does your home have any of the most popular buyer requests? Based on recent personal experience working with buyers (giving feedback) and sellers (receiving feedback), as well as conversations with colleagues, these are the ten most sought after features in a home:
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BATHROOM SPACE. If a home doesn't have an adequate number of bathrooms, one of the most important considerations will be whether, and where, another one can be added. Is there a place where one would make sense? The size of the room is also important – more often than not, buyers will regard a "shoe...
6
Multiple Offers: Seller's Choice
It's every home seller's dream scenario: after a short time on the market, you find yourself choosing among multiple offers! If you think that only happens to a few lucky luxury homeowners, think again; it happens right here in Southwest Michigan on homes in all price ranges.
How does this occur? If your home is priced ideally (positioned below the maximum price that you can expect it to sell for), you are much more likely to receive multiple offers. And how your home is presented (this is where professional marketing makes all the difference) will also affect the buyers' perception of value and spur them to make an offer.
So here you are with 2 or 3 (or 8, as I've seen lately) offers in hand. Naturally you want...
2
Move-Up vs. Second Home: Which One is Right for You?
The pandemic has changed the way many of us live, work, and attend school—and those changes have impacted our priorities when it comes to choosing a home.
With virtual school and working from home a reality for many families, the need for additional space has only intensified. A growing number of buyers are choosing homes which offer more space both inside and out.
But not everyone is permanently sold on suburban or rural life. Instead, some are choosing to purchase a second home as a frequent getaway, often where they can work or homeschool for awhile, if necessary. Without the requirements of a five-day commute, many homeowners feel less tethered to their primary residence and are eager for a change of scenery after spending so much time at home earlier in the year.
If you're feeling cramped in your current space, you've probably considered a move. But what type of home would suit you best: a move-up home or a second home? Let's explore each option to help you determine which one is right for you.
WHY CHOOSE A MOVE-UP HOME?
A move-up home is typically a larger or nicer home. It's a great choice for families or individuals who simply need more space, a better location, or want features their current home doesn't offer—like an inground pool, a different floor plan, or a dedicated home office. If you're struggling with a lack of functional or outdoor space currently, a move-up home can greatly improve your everyday life.
Most move-up buyers will sell their current home and use the proceeds as a down payment on their next one. I can help you estimate how much you could expect to net if you sold your existing home. And with mortgage rates at their lowest level in history, you may be surprised how much home you can actually afford.
To learn more about mortgage rates, contact me for a free copy of my report "Lowest Mortgage Rates in History: What it Means for Homeowners and Buyers"!
If you like where you are but are longing for that vacation vibe, a second home may be a better choice for you.
WHY CHOOSE A SECOND HOME?
Once reserved for the ultra-wealthy, second homes have become more mainstream. Home sales are surging in Southwest Michigan as more people come into the area searching for a place to escape the crowds and quarantine in comfort. Instead of trips, some families are channeling their vacation budgets into vacation homes that can be utilized throughout the year.
A second home can also be a good option if you're preparing for retirement. By purchasing your retirement home now, you can get financed while you're still working, lock in a low interest rate, start paying down the mortgage, and begin enjoying the perks of retirement living early. Down the road, when you're ready to sell your current home and make the second home your primary residence, you will see significant savings on your property taxes.
One advantage of choosing a second home is that you can offset a portion of the costs—and in some cases turn a profit—by renting it out on a platform like Airbnb or Vrbo. However, be sure to research whether short-term rentals are allowed in the specific location where you plan to buy, as some areas have restrictions.
WHICH ONE IS RIGHT FOR ME?
You may read this and think: I'd really like both a move-up home AND a second home! But if you're dealing with a limited budget (aren't we all?), you'll probably need to make a choice. These three tasks can help you decide which option is right for you.
1. Determine Your Time and Financial Budget
You may meet the bank's qualifications to purchase a home, but do you have the time, energy, and financial resources to maintain it? This is an important question to ask yourself, no matter what type of home you choose.
Most buyers realize that a second home will mean double mortgages, utilities, taxes, and insurance. But consider all the extra time and expense that goes into maintaining two properties. Two lawns to mow. Two houses to clean. Two sets of systems and appliances that can malfunction. Second homes aren't always a vacation. Make sure you're prepared for the labor and carrying costs that go into maintaining another residence.
Of course, some move-up homes require more work than a second home. For example, if your move-up option is a major fixer-upper, you'll probably invest more energy and capital than you would on a small vacation condo by the beach. Have an honest discussion about how much time and money you want to spend on your new property. Would a move-up home or a second home be a better fit given your parameters?
2. Rank Your Priorities
If you're still undecided, make a wish list of the characteristics you'd like in your new home. Then rank each item from most to least important. This exercise can help you determine your "must-have" features—and which ones you may need to sacrifice or delay. Here's a sample to help you get started:
| RANK # | FEATURE |
| Dedicated home office | |
| Main floor master suite | |
| Privacy | |
| Big back yard | |
| Close to stores | |
| Easy access to beach | |
| Close to friends and family | |
| Investment potential |
3. Explore Your Options
Once you've determined your parameters and priorities, it's time to begin your home search.
If you're still not sure whether a move-up home or a second home is right for you, I can help.
Contact me to schedule a free consultation. We'll discuss your options and help you assess the pros and cons of each, given your unique circumstances.
I can also send you property listings for both move-up homes and second homes within your budget so you can better envision each scenario. Sometimes, viewing listings of homes that meet your criteria can make the decision clear.
LET'S GET MOVING!
Whether you're ready to make a move now or need help weighing your options, I'd love to help. I can determine your current home's value, put you in touch with a lender so you are certain of your buying power, and show you local properties that fit within your budget. Waterfront homes are in high demand, so if you have one you don't get much use out of anymore, now is a great time to cash in. Or, if your heart is set on a second home in another market, I can refer you to a worthy agent in your dream locale. Contact me today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation!
1
Add Value to Your Home with These 9 DIY Improvements
I love inexpensive DIY projects! Whether you're prepping your house to go on the market or looking for ways to maximize its long-term appreciation, these nine home improvement projects are great ways to add function, beauty, and real value to your home. The best part is, once you've secured the materials, most of these renovations can be completed over the course of a weekend. And they don't require a lot of specialized skills or experience. So grab your toolbox, then get ready to boost your home's appeal AND investment potential!
- Spruce Up Your Landscaping
Curb appeal counts. It's what draws people who drive by inside and makes them want to see more. Landscaping improvements can increase a home's value by 10-12%.1 But which outdoor features do buyers care about most? According to a survey of Realtors, a healthy lawn is at the top of their list. If your lawn is lacking, overseeding or laying new sod can be a worthwhile investment—with an expected return of 417% and 143% respectively.1
Planting flowers is another great way to enhance your home's curb appeal. And if you choose a perennial variety, your blooms should return year after year. For an even longer-term impact, consider planting a tree. According to the Council of Tree and Landscape Appraisers, a mature tree can add up to $10,000 to the value of your home.2 Trees add character, beauty, and help with utility bills when strategically planted. I always highlight the features of the yard in my listings, because it is, in fact, living space.
- Clean The Exterior
When it comes to making your house shine, a sparkling facade can be just as important as a clean interior. A rented pressure washer from your local home improvement store can help you remove built-up dirt and grime from your home's exterior, walkway, and driveway. Just be sure to read the instructions carefully—and only use it on surfaces that can withstand the intensity. When in doubt, a scrub brush and bucket of sudsy water will often do the trick, especially on vinyl siding.
- Add A Fresh Coat Of Paint
New paint can have a big impact on both the appearance and value of a property. In fact, it's one of the most effective ways to revitalize a home's exterior, update its interior, and make it appear larger and brighter. The best part? Painting is relatively easy and inexpensive!
To get the maximum return at resale, stick with a modern but neutral color palette that will appeal to a broad range of buyers. According to a recent survey of home design experts, cool neutrals are a safe bet when it comes to interior paint. And respondents chose white and gray as the best exterior paint colors to use when selling a home.3 However, it's important to consider a property's architecture, existing fixtures, and neighborhood design preferences, as well. You also don't want to look like a carbon copy of your neighbors.
- Install Smart Home Technology
In a recent survey, 78% of real estate professionals said their buyer clients were willing to pay more for a home with smart technology features.4 The most requested smart devices? Thermostats (77%), smoke detectors (75%), home security cameras (66%), and locks (63%).5
The good news is, many of these gadgets are fairly easy to install. And some of them, including smart thermostats and light bulbs, will pay for themselves over time by making your home more energy efficient. In fact, many manufacturers report that smart thermostats can cut back on heating and cooling costs by 10-20%.6
If you already own a smart speaker, like Amazon Alexa or Google Home, choose devices that will pair with your existing technology. This will enable you to create a truly integrated (and in many cases voice-activated) smart home experience.
- Modernize Your Window Treatments
Smart—or motorized—blinds are also growing in popularity, and several manufacturers make models you can order and install on your own. But they're not the only way to modernize your window treatments.
If you have old aluminum blinds, consider replacing them with plantation shutters, which are energy efficient, durable, and have strong buyer appeal.7 Roman and roller shades are another stylish alternative, and they come in a variety of colors and fabrics, which you can personalize to meet your design and privacy preferences. Cellular shades are a timeless choice, offering clean lines and excellent insulation.
Fortunately, upgrading your blinds has gotten easier and less expensive in recent years. There are a number of retailers that specialize in affordable window coverings that are simple to measure and hang yourself.
- Replace Outdated Fixtures
Drastically transform the look and feel of your home by swapping out dingy and dated fixtures for contemporary alternatives. Start by assessing your current light fixtures, faucets, cabinet hardware, door knobs, and even switch plates. Then prioritize replacing those that are particularly outdated or in highly-visible areas, such as your entryway or kitchen.
Even if your home is fairly new, consider trading your builder-grade fixtures for higher-end options to give it a more upscale appearance. And forget the old rule about sticking to one metal tone throughout your property. According to designers, mixing metal finishes can add interest and character to a space.8 Right now, however, brass faucets and cabinet handles tend to give a retro 90s feel, which isn't appealing to many home buyers. Rubbed bronze, copper, black, or brushed nickel are better choices.
For more designer insights and decor trends, contact me for a free copy of my recent report: "Top 5 Home Design Trends for a New Decade."
- Upgrade Your Bathroom Mirror
A minor bathroom remodel offers one of the best returns on investment, with a $1.71 increase in home value for every $1 you spend.9 We've already explored several improvements you can make to your bathroom: new paint, fixtures, and hardware. Now complete the look by upgrading your vanity's mirror.
Before you purchase a new mirror, examine your existing one to see how it is attached to the wall. Some vanity mirrors are glued to the wall and difficult to remove without shattering the glass or damaging the sheetrock behind it.10
If you prefer to keep your existing mirror, you can paint the frame—or add one if it's currently frameless. There are several online retailers that will send you the frame components cut to your specifications, which you can assemble and mount yourself. Much like a work of art, your vanity mirror serves as a focal point for your bathroom, so let your creativity shine through!
- Shampoo Your Carpet
Carpet is notorious for trapping dust, dirt, and allergens. It's one of the reasons that most buyers prefer hard surface flooring.11But if you love your carpet, or you're not ready to invest in an alternative, make an effort to keep it clean and odor-free.
To properly maintain your carpet, you should vacuum it weekly. Experts also recommend a deep shampoo at least every two years.12 Fortunately, this is a cheap and easy DIY project you can knock out in about 20 minutes per room. According to Consumer Reports, you can rent a machine and purchase cleaning fluid and supplies for around $90. With an average return on your investment of 169%, it's well worth the effort and expense.13
- Customize Your Closet
Real estate professionals estimate that a closet remodel can add $2500 to a home's selling price. And while a professional renovation can cost upwards of $6000, there are many high-quality DIY closet systems you can customize and install yourself.14
Experts recommend taking a thorough inventory of your wardrobe and accessories before you get started. Make sure frequently-worn pieces are easy to reach, and store seasonal and seldom-used items on high shelves. Place shoe racks near the closet entrance so they are easy to access.15 A little planning can go a long way toward building a closet that you (and your future buyers!) will love. When it comes time to stage it for photos and showings, you'll want to make sure it is organized and not too full, to maximize the impact and appeal.
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GET A COMPLIMENTARY ANALYSIS OF YOUR PROJECT
We've been talking averages. But the truth is, the actual impact of a home improvement project will vary depending on your particular home and neighborhood. Before you get started, contact me to schedule a free consultation. I can help you determine which upgrades will offer the greatest return on your effort and investment. |
Sources:
- HomeLight -
https://www.homelight.com/blog/improve-curb-appeal-landscaping/ - National Association of Realtors -
https://www.realtor.com/advice/home-improvement/landscape-renovations-that-pay-off/ - Fixr -
https://www.fixr.com/blog/2020/01/14/paint-color-trends-in-2020/ - T3 Sixty -
https://blog.coldwellbanker.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/CES2018-Smart-Homes-An-Emerging-Real-Estate-Opportunity.pdf - Consumer Reports -
https://www.consumerreports.org/smart-home/smart-home-tech-upgrades-to-help-sell-your-house/ - American Council for Energy Efficient Economy
https://www.aceee.org/sites/default/files/publications/researchreports/a1801.pdf - Forbes - https://www.forbes.com/sites/trulia/2016/07/05/10-upgrades-under-1000-that-increase-home-values-2/#47b0d3162e60
- Insider -
https://www.insider.com/home-design-rules-you-should-be-breaking-2020-1 - Zillow -
https://www.zillow.com/sellers-guide/roi-for-bathroom-remodel/ - Lowes -
https://www.lowes.com/n/how-to/remove-a-bathroom-mirror - HomeLight -
https://www.homelight.com/blog/what-flooring-increases-home-value/ - Angie's List -
https://www.angieslist.com/articles/how-often-should-i-clean-my-carpets.htm - HomeLight -
https://www.homelight.com/blog/projects-that-increase-home-value/ - National Association of Realtors - https://www.nar.realtor/research-and-statistics/research-reports/remodeling-impact
- EasyClosets - https://www.easyclosets.com/tips-ideas/2016/10/02/how-to-plan-your-walk-in-closet/
28
We've Accepted an Offer! What Happens Next?
You worked for weeks getting your home show-ready: organizing, cleaning, and finishing up those half-started projects. The sign went up, the people came through, and you accepted an offer. Maybe this all happened faster than you anticipated; some homes go under contract in just a few days, and the speed of the process can leave you feeling overwhelmed. Here are some of the most common questions that I'm asked by sellers:
1. What do I need to do now?
The home inspections are the first order of business. Bu...
Disclaimer: All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. All properties are subject to prior sale, change or withdrawal. Neither listing broker(s) or information provider(s) shall be responsible for any typographical errors, misinformation, misprints and shall be held totally harmless. Listing(s) information is provided for consumers personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing. Information on this site was last updated 04/28/2026. The listing information on this page last changed on 04/28/2026. The data relating to real estate for sale on this website comes in part from the Internet Data Exchange program of Delta Media Group MLS (last updated Tue 04/28/2026 5:12:39 AM EST) or MichRic (Michigan Regional Information Center) (last updated Mon 04/27/2026 11:17:29 PM EST) or NIRA MLS (last updated Mon 04/27/2026 11:04:46 PM EST) or IRMLS (last updated Mon 04/27/2026 11:12:01 PM EST). Real estate listings held by brokerage firms other than Cressy & Everett Real Estate may be marked with the Internet Data Exchange logo and detailed information about those properties will include the name of the listing broker(s) when required by the MLS. All rights reserved.
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