Avoid these traps when remodeling your home!

If you're one of the millions of home owners who have a mortgage with a rate that is under 3% and you were thinking about selling to buy a home with upgrades that you have always wanted, you might find it more practical to remodel your house instead of selling and buying.  If you want to remodel your home, there are some common mistakes you should try to avoid. Here are a few of them: 1) Overspending: It's easy to get carried away with a home renovation, but be sure to set a realistic budget and stick to it. Unexpected expenses can pop up, so try to leave some wiggle room in your budget. 2) Focusing too much on trends: It's tempting to want the latest and greatest design trends in your home, but keep in mind that trends can be short-lived. Try to balance current trends with classic design elements that will stand the test of time. 3) Prioritizing looks over function: It's important to make sure your renovation is functional as well as beautiful. Consider factors like storage space, traffic flow, and practicality when planning your project. 4) Cutting corners: While it's important to stick to your budget, be careful not to skimp on materials or labor. Low-quality materials and shoddy workmanship can end up costing you more in the long run. 5) Trying to DIY everything: It's great to tackle some renovation projects yourself, but be aware of your limitations. Some projects, like electrical or plumbing work, are best left to the professionals. 6) Neglecting permits: Some renovation projects require permits and inspections from local government agencies. Be sure to check if your project requires any permits to avoid costly fines. 7) Not planning for the future: Think about your current and future needs when planning your renovation. For example, if you plan to have kids or want to age in place, you may need to consider how your renovation will accommodate those needs. Overall, a successful renovation requires careful planning, a realistic budget, and working with experienced professionals. Good luck with your project!

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Top 5 To-Dos to prep your home for the market!

Because we see a lot of homes in our day to day work, we get a lot of questions from our friends and family about what crazy things we've seen while showing a home. The stories are endless and range from just a few dead bugs to walking through an abandoned property at night with no power to check out the interior for our investor clients. Trust me, it was like being in the Blair Witch Project movie.  Been there, done that, never again. lol We can tell you a ton of things NOT to do but this article would go forever so here are some simple and friendly step-by-step things you CAN do to get your home ready for the market: Start with a deep clean: First things first, give your home a good, deep clean from top to bottom. This includes decluttering, dusting, and scrubbing everything from the baseboards to the ceiling fans. Make any necessary repairs: Take a walk through your home and make a list of any repairs that need to be made. This might include fixing leaky faucets, patching holes in the walls, or replacing broken tiles. Get a fresh coat of paint: A fresh coat of paint can do wonders for brightening up a room and making it look brand new. Consider repainting any rooms with scuffed or outdated walls. Improve your curb appeal: The outside of your home is the first thing potential buyers will see, so it's important to make a good impression. This might include adding some potted plants, trimming the hedges, or giving your front door a fresh coat of paint. Stage your home: Staging your home means arranging your furniture and decor in a way that makes your home look its best. This might include rearranging furniture, adding some new throw pillows or artwork, or removing any personal items. By following these steps and working closely with us, you'll increase your chances of selling your home for top dollar. Let's talk soon! Clifford

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