There can be many advantages to selling during the cooler months.

In fact playing up your home’s cozy, family-friendly charm during these months can be a real asset!

Many people think it’s more difficult to sell a home in the winter than in summer, however, things that lead people to make new home        purchases– a new job, a growing family, up or downsizing happen all year long, so there are still plenty of buyers out there. Here are a few things you can do

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  • Make sure the EXTERIOR is well maintained, with eaves troughs clean and minor repairs taken care of. Make sure the windows are freshly washed as winter light has a way of highlighting the dirt and grime.
  • Make sure SHRUBS and TREE branches heavy with snow do not obstruct walkways or entrances. Brush off snow and prune as necessary.
  • Keep walkways and entrances shoveled and ICE FREE. If a visitor slips you could be liable for the damages.
  • Create a WELCOMING ENTRY by putting up Christmas lights or a wreath on the front door. Festive touches like cedar, pine, holly, dried berries or perhaps glittered ornaments and ribbons really create a the mood. Things that are not too “Christmasy” in design can be left up all winter long.
  • If the home is vacant, make sure the heat is turned on several hours before showing. Buyers don’t want to linger in a home that’s freezing.
  • Protect your floors by putting down mats at the door for snowy boots. Buy a few pairs of comfy one size fits all slippers for visitors to wear while they view your home.
  • Romance visitors by lighting fragrant candles, placing potpourri bowls in main rooms or bake a fresh batch of homemade cookies to leave on the counter. This not only smells great it also adds to the warmth and charm of you home.

HAVING SOLD over 1000 homes, I know what buyers look for and how to MARKET, PREPARE & SELL your home. If your thinking of selling or buying call me, your HOMETOWN REAL ESTATE SPECIALIST.

L.J. Baron Realty has been family owned & operated for over 58 years!

Every will the phone rings with someone asking if it's a good time to buy.  Our local market is holding strong, but during tougher

economic times you want to make sure you're spending money wisely.  Here are some costly home buying mistakes I can help you avoid.

• Letting emotion overrule common sense. "Falling in love" with a house can be costly.   You may need to visit a property more than once, and be objective: don't gloss over potential problems.
• Not considering resale value.  Think about how long you will be staying in your new home.  Assess the resale value based on your projected life in that home, and determine if it meets both your emotional and financial need.
• Taking the first mortgage you're offered.  It's more than just the interest reat: make sure you compare all associated costs and fees.
• Skipping the home inspection.  This may be the only way to discover potential problems.
• Not planning for closing costs. Taxes, inspection fees, title insureance & lawyer's fees have to be paid at closing.  Make sure you have budgeted ahead of time.

With the proper guidance, you can not only get your dream home but make good financial decisiona as well.  Whether buying or selling, give me a call.  I would love to help you with your next move!