Two Blogs in One : Batter Up and Home Staging Tips

Batter Up!

You've stepped up to the plate,
and have already scored a run batted in (prequalified by lender).

Bases are loaded (so many homes to choose from).

It's the 9th inning and the game is tied.
(You've been looking for months and finally find a home you love)

The count is 3 balls and 2 strikes (you already wanted to make 3 offers on other homes that were sold before you took action - then had two others that were rejected). Now is the final opportunity to win the game for your team.

Your coach (David Brown, broker) sends hand signals from the bench that says
"watch for the low pitch".

The pitcher winds up, looks to first base, looks back at the plate, then releases a fast ball that seems low but coming right in front of your knees - a strike if not swung at - in split seconds you make a decision and swing low and up connecting with a solid hit that goes, goes, and then sails over the center field fence for a grand slam! (The agent, David Brown, helps you manage a strategic offer which is accepted. )

You run around the bases preceeded by the three runners on base and the team and crowd cheers you on.

(The inspection, appraisal, and financing approval are all in and you arrive at home base - your new home - on schedule and with a smooth escrow).

Any players? This broker is ready to do some more coaching!

David Brown

Broker
www.RealEstateSalem.com

503-302-2333

Home Staging for Sellers - article courtesy of Room Service Home Staging

Home Stagers Aren't Necessary In Todays Market.
REALLY? With home prices shrinking due to foreclosures and short sales why should you bother investing in a home staging service? First time buyers, along with emerging traditional buyers, are looking for value and affordability first, and 81% said move-in conditions were at the top of their criteria.

A home staging expert can identify what a home seller doesn't see as potential red flags to losing a sale. Surprisingly many forego the few hundred dollars it cost to get a professional evaluation, step by step guidance, and detailed tips on how to present their homes to stand apart from the competition. More surprising, you can vastly improve your home's appeal for very little money. In many cases we're talking maybe a few hundred dollars along with some sweat equity. It's hard to dispute such a small investment when compared to the thousands of dollars potentially lost in an offer on a home that has not been presented as "move-in" condition.

Though selling a home isn't easy in most markets today, a well showcased home reflects a well maintained home and that appeals to someone buying a home for the first time. First time buyers are skeptical of buying homes that need improvement. Due to the general requirement of larger down payments now, they won't have money left for improvements nor repairs. "While foreclosures that are in severe disrepair can be a huge turnoff for a first-time buyer, some banks will make improvements to their foreclosure stock, fixing them up so that they meet FHA standards and a buyer's needs, said Chuck Whitehead, of Coldwell Banker Associated Brokers in Southern California. These homes can be stiff competition for the rest of the for-sale inventory." (REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE June 09')

Value is clearly motivating potential home buyers and home staging services are all about improving the value of your home.
article courtesy of Room Service Home Staging