Living • July 22, 2024

The Life Expectancy of Your Home

by Windermere Staff

A man places a level on a cabinet while his dog watches.

Every component of your home has a lifespan. Common questions asked by homeowners include when to replace the flooring or how long to expect their siding to last. This information can help when budgeting for improvements or deciding between repairing and replacing when the time comes. We’re all familiar with the cliché: They just don’t build things like they used to. And while this may be true when it comes to brick siding or slate roofing, lifespans of other household components have increased in recent years. Here are the life expectancies of the most common household items (courtesy of NAHB):

Appliances:

Among major appliances, gas ranges have a longer life expectancy than things like dishwashers and microwaves.

Kitchen & Bath:

When choosing your countertops, factor in the life expectancies of different materials.

Flooring:

If you’re looking for longevity, wood floors are the way to go. Certain rooms in your home will be better suited for carpeting, but you can expect they’ll need replacing within a decade.

Siding & Roofing:

When choosing roofing and siding for your home, climate and maintenance level factor into the life expectancy of the material. However, brick siding and slate roofing are known to be dependable for decades.

Are extended warranties warranted?

Extended warranties, also known as service contracts or service agreements, are sold for all types of household items from appliances to electronics. They cover service calls and repairs for a specified time beyond the manufacturer’s standard warranty.

You will have to consider whether the cost is worth it to you. For some, it brings a much-needed peace of mind when making such a large purchase. Also consider if the cost outweighs the value of the item. In some cases it may be less expensive to replace a broken appliance than to pay for insurance or a warranty.

Design • Living • July 15, 2024

Pet Friendly Home Decor Ideas

by Windermere Staff

Laughing young couple petting their dog while sitting together on a sofa in their living room at home

For many of us, pets are important members of our household, which means our homes should be as comfortable for them as they are to everyone else who lives there. When choosing how to decorate your home, whether you’re moving into a new one or welcoming a new furry or feathered friend into the one you already live in, thinking ahead about their needs can not only create a happy space for everyone but also help with the inevitable pet-related accidents and other possible issues down the road.

Cuddly-friendly Furniture

While some pet owners refuse to let animals on couches or chairs, others love to cuddle with their furry friends on or near their laps. If you fall in with the first group, create a soft space on the floor for Fido or Fluffy to lie on when the family is relaxing. Dog and cat beds come in just about every material, color, and style you can imagine, so finding one that fits in with your aesthetic should be relatively simple.

If you’re in the second group, select furniture that can withstand the wear and tear of claws, accidents, and frequent vacuuming. Leather (or faux leather) surfaces are best for homes with animals that shed. If you prefer the feel of fabric instead, choose a couch or loveseat made from stain-resistant materials or use a washable slipcover.

Throw blankets are not only cozy, but they are also great for creating a barrier between pets and furniture, and they’re a lot easier to clean than an entire couch.

Safe Plants

Incorporating live plants and greenery is a great way to add a touch of nature to your home’s interior, but not all plants are safe for pets. While fake plants are an option, they don’t provide the extra benefit of helping to clean the air you breathe while indoors.

Rattlesnake plants, spider plants, orchids, many kinds of fern, and small palms are all beautiful additions that aren’t toxic if your pup or kitten takes a nibble. There are also many types of succulents that are pet-safe, and the spiny ones will deter a pet that’s looking for a snack or—in the case of some cats—a litter box.

Flooring

When it comes to pets, accidents are usually inevitable. As well behaved and trained as they may be, pets get sick, old, and stressed. Though messes are bound to happen, lingering stains don’t have to. Hardwood, tile, and vinyl floors make it easy to wipe up anything your pet leaves behind, as well as spills they may cause. Washable rugs come in dozens of attractive styles and are great at protecting floors, especially if you add a pet-proof pad underneath. Put plastic or vinyl mats under pet feeding areas to protect floors from spills and to prevent bits of food from spreading throughout the house.

Colors

The best way to camouflage pet hair in between sweeping and vacuuming is to select furniture, carpets, and décor items that match your pet’s coat. If you’ve got a brindle pup, calico kitty, or multi-colored animal friend, patterns will be your best bet. Florals, plaids, stripes, paisleys, and other patterns also help hide stains when those inevitable spills and accidents happen.

Hidden Essentials

Our animal buddies are sweet, cute, and cuddly, but not everything about having a pet is attractive. Litter boxes, feeding stations, and sleeping crates take up a lot of room and can be eyesores. Fortunately, furniture makers have taken notice and created pieces that are both aesthetically pleasing and functional.

For indoor kitties, litter boxes are necessary, but constantly seeing and smelling them isn’t. Get the box out of sight with a stylish litter box side table. Dogs can nap in style with a crate that doubles as an end table or nightstand. Feeding stations with storage make dinner time easy and keep unsightly bags of food hidden away.

Your love of animals doesn’t have to get in the way of living in style. These tips should help you find the right balance between the two.

Buying • July 8, 2024

So You Bought an Investment Property, Now What?

by Windermere Staff

Modern apartment buildings on a sunny day with a blue sky

Congratulations on your new investment property! Now comes the exciting part: Turning your property into a revenue-generating machine. While it’s not exactly easy, your goals are within reach if you take steps to organize, plan, and build a solid foundation. Here are some ways to help maximize your property’s potential in the short and long term while avoiding future headaches.

Ensure your property is up to code

At a minimum, your new investment property should be safe and livable. This isn’t just the right thing to do, it will also shield you from liability and help attract better tenants. Start by repairing the necessities using your home inspection report as your guide. Prioritize issues that could lead to bigger problems down the road, such as a leaky roof or holes in the closet that could lead to infestations. Ensure that all appliances are in top working condition, including the furnace or other heating system, and that the plumbing and electrical are up to code.

Also make sure the property complies with all local and state laws regarding the presence of mold, lead paint, asbestos, and other potentially hazardous substances.

Choose a property management team

While you can manage the property yourself, hiring a good property management team will reduce stress and likely save money over time. Property managers handle tasks such as rent collection, maintenance, tenant screening, and marketing your property. They also oversee complaints, so you don’t have to deal with upset or difficult tenants.

To find a reliable property management team, start by asking for recommendations from friends, family, or other real estate investors. Also check reviews on specialized property review sites. When interviewing potential managers, ensure they have experience with properties like yours and assess their responsiveness and communication skills, as you need a manager who keeps you informed and addresses issues promptly.

If the management fee is too steep and you decide to go it alone, curate a list of reliable plumbers, electricians, appliance repair companies, and handymen to handle maintenance requests. Also thoroughly screen tenants to ensure they’re reliable and will take good care of your property.

Enhance the property appeal

Before you rent the property, consider cost-effective renovations to enhance its appeal and rental value without breaking the bank. For the kitchen, consider refacing or repainting cabinets, upgrading to energy-efficient appliances, and installing modern faucets and light fixtures. Bathroom options include updating faucets, showerheads, and flooring. Other improvements that may attract higher-paying tenants include refinishing the floors, upgrading to energy-efficient doors and windows, and hiring a gardener to improve the landscaping.

Consider different rental strategies

Regular maintenance is crucial to maintain the property’s value and prevent costly repairs. Coordinate with your tenants to schedule periodic maintenance checks, and create a list of maintenance tasks to address when tenants are on vacation or between renters.

Property owners have traditionally concentrated on long-term rentals. However, the rise of short-term rental platforms like Airbnb and VRBO have shifted the landscape for some. Long-term rentals are idea for owners seeking a stable income, as turnover is typically low and monthly revenue is predictable. On the other hand, short-term rentals can command higher nightly rates, but they usually involve more expensive and time-consuming management and upkeep. Plus, reservations can be unpredictable, particularly in areas with seasonal fluctuations.

Set competitive rental rates

Property management teams generally recommend an optimal rent based on a comprehensive market analysis, helping you achieve the highest return on your investment. If you’re managing the property yourself, you can perform your own analysis by researching comparable properties (“comps”) on websites like Craigslist or Trulia. Consider factors such as your property’s location compared to the comps, and whether your property includes coveted features like air conditioning, a washer/dryer, or ample outdoor space. Proximity to good schools and local amenities such as restaurants are also valued by renters.

Keep in mind that for your investment to be profitable, your rental income must cover expenses such as mortgage payments, taxes, management fees, insurance, and ongoing maintenance costs. Make sure to periodically review and adjust the rates to remain competitive and maximize your income.

Market your property effectively

As with rental rates, your property management team typically lists and markets the property, so you’re off the hook here. However, if you’re managing solo, you need to think like a product marketer, using tools like high-quality photos, virtual tours, and compelling descriptions to make your property stand out. First impressions matter, so lead with a well-lit, inviting photo. Bright images convey a clean, move-in-ready home, while dark photos can scare tenants away by making the property appear dirty and uninviting. Consider hiring a professional photographer to ensure the lighting and framing are perfect in every room.

Review other listings to gather inspiration for your own. Highlight unique selling points over standard features, especially if the latter are evident in the photos. Think about what would attract you as a renter. Is it simply a garage with two storage cabinets? Or is it a spacious garage with a shop-ready layout, including two 220V circuits, two sturdy workbenches, and built-in storage?

Master the legal and financial details

Owning an investment property comes with legal rights and responsibilities for both you and your tenants. It’s crucial to familiarize yourself with local rental laws, zoning regulations, and tenant rights to prevent legal liabilities and handle any issues that may arise effectively. Additionally, obtaining landlord insurance is essential to protect against potential property damage and liability.

And remember, owning an investment property lets you take advantage of tax deductions for mortgage interest, property taxes, repairs, and depreciation. Keep detailed records of all income and expenses to ensure you maximize these deductions and continue to earn a profit.

Buying • July 1, 2024

How to Increase Your Buying Power

by Windermere Staff

Rearview shot of a young couple standing outside their new home

One of the best ways prospective home buyers can empower themselves when purchasing a home is to improve their buying power. The numbers may seem daunting but identifying ways to strengthen your financial standing will help you each step of the way.

When visualizing your dream home, it’s common for buyers to focus on the physical characteristics. But to mortgage lenders, a home is a numbers game. The following categories related to your buying power demonstrate how lenders identify your financial standing and determine your eligibility for a home purchase. Improvements in these areas will increase your buying power, propelling the strength of your offer when you’re ready to put it on the table.

How to Increase Your Buying Power

Increase Savings For Your Down Payment

As the saying goes, cash is king. The down payment—often 20% of the home’s sale price—can sometimes be the deciding factor between competing offers for a particular home.

Try stashing away a little of each paycheck to build up your savings over time. Set a savings goal, commit a dedicated amount to each pay period, and watch the savings build as time goes on. If you prefer to keep your money separate, open a new account to which you can dedicate the added savings. Another way to save for your down payment is to generate additional income. If you have interest or experience in an area outside of your current job, explore opportunities for part-time work and dedicate the income earned to your down payment savings.

There are numerous benefits to offering a serious down payment. Putting 20% or more down can help your offer stand out, it may allow you to negotiate a lower interest rate on your mortgage and could remove the need for private mortgage insurance (PMI).

Improve Your Credit Score

Plain and simple—a better credit score leads to better interest rate on your mortgage. Your payment history, amounts owed, length of credit history, credit mix, and new credit all factor into your credit score. Although improving it will not happen overnight, a higher credit score will pay dividends in the long run.

To improve your credit score, focus on paying down your credit cards, especially those with high interest. Refrain from opening new lines of credit that aren’t necessary and stay away from large purchases leading up to the time when you are preparing to make an offer. Keep in mind that student loans factor into your financial picture. Paying them off consistently will improve your financial standing in the eyes of lenders.

Stabilize Your Debt to Increase Buying Power

When assessing what you can afford, banks will examine your debt-to-income ratio. Lenders want to know that you’ll be able to pay your mortgage on top of your remaining debt.

They do this by looking at your housing ratio, or front-end ratio, to determine what portion of your income will go to paying your mortgage. Your front-end ratio is calculated by taking your monthly mortgage payment and dividing by your monthly gross income. The higher the ratio, the higher risk of default.

Next, your back-end ratio, or debt-to-income ratio, is used to determine how much of your monthly income goes toward paying your debts. Your back-end ratio is calculated by taking your monthly debt expense (the principal, interest, taxes, and insurance of your mortgage payments, credit card payments, student loans, and any other loan payments), and dividing it by your gross monthly income.

Similar to your credit score, paying off credit cards, and making steady, consistent progress on your loans will help to decrease your debt and improve your debt-to-income ratios, which will increase your buying power.

Although these aspects of your finances don’t cover everything that goes into the purchase of a home, they do play a significant role in how lenders assess your financial standing and thereby eligibility for approval. Increasing your buying power takes time and strategy. Plan accordingly so that when you find your dream home, you’re in the best position possible to buy it.

To connect with an experienced Windermere agent, get started here:

Living • More • Selling • June 26, 2024

Streamlining Your Life: 7 Tips to Make Downsizing Easier

by Windermere Staff

Generation X African-American Couple Unpacking Memories and Smiling in New Home During Retirement Transition

Whether you’re retiring, moving into a smaller space, or simply want to live more minimally, downsizing can simplify the process. After all, the fewer belongings you have, the less you need to pack, move, and organize in your new place. But for many of us, the mere idea of downsizing can be daunting. How do you decide what to keep and what to let go of after accumulating a lifetime of possessions, mementos, and memories?

The secret, as it so often is, is to plan ahead. Here are some tips to make downsizing easier.

Start early:

Begin the downsizing process several months before your move date if you can. Starting early allows you to pace yourself and avoid last-minute rushes. It also gives you time to work through your emotions, so you’re less likely to keep something you don’t use simply because you’ve owned it for years.

Create a downsizing calendar:

Budget your time by dedicating specific days or weekends to different tasks, such as sorting through possessions, donating items, and dealing with recycling or disposal. Like a to-do list, a calendar can inspire action by giving you a clear agenda for each day or week.

As part of the process, research where to drop off items and their operating hours to improve efficiency. For example, you may need to schedule pickups or drop-offs for local charities or other organizations that accept donations. Also allow extra time if you’re posting items online, as they may take longer to sell.

Sample calendar:

Develop criteria for making decisions:

When planning, factor in your reasons for downsizing, and use these as criteria when faced with difficult choices. For example:

If you’re simplifying:

If you’re cutting costs:

If you’re moving into a smaller space:

Sort items by their intended destination:

Designate specific areas for items you plan to keep, donate, sell, recycle, or dispose of. Use labels or colored markers to clearly mark each pile.

Keep:

Donate:

Sell:

Recycle:

Discard:

Take it room by room:

Treat each room as a separate project. You may want to start with a smaller room that you’re less emotionally attached to, like a home office, to make decisions easier. Once you’ve finished each room, give yourself a pat on the back before moving to the next. Recognizing these smaller accomplishments can provide a mental boost as you work towards achieving your larger goal.

Consider off-site storage:

If you don’t have as much time as you’d like or have more valuable items than your new space will accommodate, consider renting an off-site storage unit. Some people use storage units for six months to a year after a move, allowing them to sort through their items at a more deliberate pace. This approach lets you gradually incorporate some items into your new living arrangement and decide what to do with the rest. However, be careful not to fall into the “out of sight, out of mind” trap. It’s easy to neglect a storage unit, only to realize years later you’ve made little progress.

Take time to reflect:

For many people, the hardest part of downsizing is letting go of belongings with sentimental value. Give yourself time to process the emotions tied to these items. Think of them as treasured memories rather than losses, and take photos of items you cherish but can’t keep. Shifting your perspective can also be helpful. This can be a liberating transition to a new lifestyle—one that’s more thoughtful about what’s worth holding onto. And remember, there are always new memories to be made!

To get an estimate of the value of your home, try Windermere’s free Home Worth Calculator at the link below:

What is my home worth?

To connect with an experienced Windermere agent today, click the button below:

Living • More • June 17, 2024

Essential Tips for Building the Grilling Station of Your Dreams

by KeeleyShaye Hill

Beautiful backyard with barbeque area and dining table

Summer is the season for outdoor entertaining, which means it’s time to fire up the grill and dust off the patio furniture. But is your yard the grilling paradise you want it to be, or is it more of a fixer-upper? Here are a few tips to get your backyard in prime shape for the searing, savoring, and relaxing to come.

What’s your vision?

Before diving into the details, let’s start with the vision question: What kind of grilling station do you want? Are you aiming for a cozy spot to share meals with friends and family? Or are you looking to transform your yard into the ultimate grilling paradise? Setting clear goals will guide your preparations and upgrades.

Basic grilling setup

If your goal is a simple, functional space where a few friends can share a meal, focus on the essentials:

Choose a less-trafficked location:

Even a small grill station will take up significant space, not to mention the crowd it may attract. With that in mind, avoid situating it in areas of high foot traffic, such as near the stairs of your deck or along a main walking path. Be sure to provide ample room between the barbecue and your backyard seating.

Pick the grill for you:

If you’re looking to buy a new grill, consider your tastes and needs. Do you love imparting a rich, smoky flavor to your grillables? Charcoal may be your jam. If you prefer speed, convenience, and temperature control, gas is the likely choice. Keep in mind that simple charcoal grills are often more convenient for small yards, as you can easily move them aside when you’re done grilling. Most standalone gas grills come on wheels, but their bulk and weight make them less mobile in comparison. Growing in popularity, electric grills may be the safest and most convenient option—you’re always stocked with fuel—but purists may balk at grilling over anything but an open flame. Plus, repairs can be costly.

Create a prep area:

Your grilling area will be greatly enhanced with a prep and serving station. It doesn’t need to be elaborate—even a small table or cart can do the job. Ideally, it’ll have room for your grilled foods, condiments, and utensils. Even better if it can hold items like a cutting board, plates, and serving platters.

Make your guests comfy:

The right combo of seating will add the social touch to your BBQ setup. Bench seating is a popular option for grilling on the deck, while chairs on the grass impart more of a picnic feel. Choose enough seating for your typical group size, with a mix of chairs and perhaps a small table or two. A picnic table is a popular choice if you have the space. Also consider an umbrella or canopy for shade and weather protection.

Build some ambience:

Installing a fire pit will create a fun social space once the sun goes down. Plenty of styles are available, including simple tabletop models, fire pit bowls, metal standalones, and rustic chimineas. In making your choice, consider factors like cost, style, size, and how the fire pit matches your yard’s design. Adding String lights, lanterns, and/or tiki torches can also make your yard more inviting.

Mixed gender and diverse ethnic group of friends gathering by the pool, with string lights and barbecue, enjoying an informal evening party outdoors.

Ultimate grilling Shangri-La

If you’re dreaming of a more elaborate outdoor kitchen and entertainment area, start planning for these features:

Add a high-end grill and smoker:

Some backyard chefs take grilling seriously. If your smoked brisket and grilled stuffed peppers are already a point of pride, consider upgrading to a smoker or high-end grill. Smokers cook at lower temperatures over a longer period, which infuses meats with deep, smoky flavors and results in incredibly tender and juicy textures. High-end gas grills have a host of features that set them apart from basic grills, including more cooking space, better heat distribution, and built-in thermometers for precision cooking. Many also offer innovative side burners for cooking up veggies or boiling water.

Install outdoor countertops:

The most memorable outdoor kitchens mimic indoor kitchens, complete with ample counterspace, underside storage, and often a built-in dishwasher, sink, and/or fridge. Installation can be complicated, especially if you add plumbing or electrical, but the final product can transform your outdoor living space into a culinary haven. Select a durable material that suits the style of your home and your cooking style. Natural stone, concrete, or tile are good choices. Make sure to include plenty of built-in storage for grilling tools, utensils, and outdoor dining essentials.

Create a comprehensive seating area:

Outdoor living is a different mindset than backyard grilling, so look for ways to integrate multiple seating areas, including a dining table, lounge chairs, an outdoor sectional, and possibly a bar area (bonus points if it blends seamlessly with your countertops). Not only can you host bigger gatherings, but you can move your party from one area to another as the evening progresses (very sophisticated). You can get more mileage out of your space by adding a pergola or retractable awning for all-weather entertaining.

Enhance your lighting:

Built-in lighting can improve both your space’s functionality and its ambiance. At the minimum, install task lighting for areas where you’ll be doing most of the cooking and prep work and ambient lighting such as string lights or wall-mounted sconces around the seating areas. Consider accent lighting to showcase some of your area’s most elegant features, such as architectural details, plants, or pathways.

Upgrade your sound:

A myriad of sound systems are available to set the mood, from basic weather-resistant speakers that connect to your phone via Bluetooth to integrated sound systems that communicate with your home’s existing audio setup. More advanced setups have different audio zones for different areas, such as louder music near the grill and softer music near the dining or lounging spaces.

By starting with a clear vision and breaking down the process into manageable steps, you can create the ideal grilling station for your wants and needs. And remember, you can always start simple and build toward your dream outdoor kitchen in the future. Happy grilling!

Living • June 10, 2024

Home Maintenance Checklist: Summer Edition

by Windermere Staff

cleaning terrace with a power washer - high water pressure cleaner on wooden terrace surface

As summer nears, who doesn’t dream of camping trips, weekend getaways, and hammock lay-arounds? But before you book your entire summer, remember that it’s also an important time for home maintenance and repair, particularly outdoors. Whether you’re prepping your home for summer fun or enhancing its efficiency, here’s a checklist to consider while the weather is warm.

Check and service AC system

Optimize your home for cooler temperatures by having your AC system checked and serviced, which prolongs the life of your unit and prevents costly repairs. Also be sure to change the AC filter regularly — up to once a month in the summer.

Seal air escape routes

Keep cool air from escaping by sealing your windows and doors tight. Check for any gaps or cracks in your window seals and door frames. Replace weatherstripping or apply caulking as needed to improve energy efficiency and keep costs down.

Maintain your patios and fencing

Spruce up your deck, patio, and fence by sweeping away debris, cleaning and sealing surfaces, and checking for needed repairs. Mold and mildew are common here, so consider pressure washing on a lower setting before sealing to keep everything looking fresh and clean.

Prep for summer entertaining

Give your grilling surfaces a makeover by removing built-up grease and debris from the grill grates, burners, and drip pans. Next, check your propane levels to ensure you’re ready for the season. Also wipe down your outdoor furniture and lighting and replace burnt-out bulbs, so guests have a comfortable, well-lit space to relax.

Inspect your roof

The warm, dry air makes summer the perfect time for roof maintenance. Look for damaged or missing shingles, soft spots, or areas where roof flashing may need repair. While you can handle some repairs yourself — flashing issues can often be fixed with a new layer of caulk or mortar — it’s best to hire a professional if you see signs of water damage.

Fix your gutters

Cleaning your gutters may be a year-round affair, but gutter repair is a warm-weather activity. Inspect your gutters and downspouts for cracks, sags, loose fasteners, and rust spots and fix as necessary. You can seal smaller leaks with gutter sealant or a patch kit, but you’ll likely want to replace sections with more significant damage.

Give your garden some love

Weeds can flourish in hot weather and compete with your plants for moisture and nutrients. Combat this by regularly pulling weeds and applying a 2-inch layer of mulch in your planting areas. Also, remember to water wisely, preferably early in the morning or late in the evening, to minimize evaporation and ensure efficient water usage.

Tend to your pool

Your pool has been waiting all year to show off. Keep it pristine and safe for swimmers by
regularly checking and maintaining the chemical levels to prevent contaminants and pollutants. Another safety tip: ensure all safety equipment, such as pool covers and ladders, are in good condition.

Most important of all, take advantage of the sunshine for some well-deserved R&R!

Design • Selling • June 3, 2024

Staging for Home Selling Success

by KeeleyShaye Hill

igital image of a beautiful living room of a large victorian style house. Fully furnished interior of contemporary living room interior.

The benefits of staging a home are well documented. Numerous studies show that staging helps sell a home faster and for a higher price. Studies also indicate that buyers decide if they’re interested within the first 30 seconds of entering a home. Not only does home staging help to remove potential red flags that can turn buyers off, it also helps them imagine living there. Homes that are professionally staged look more “move-in ready,” which makes them far more appealing to potential buyers.

Ready to get started?

If you’re ready to put your house on the market and want to try your hand at staging, here are some concepts to keep in mind:

Aim for Cohesion

Make the inside match the outside. For example, if the exterior architectural style of your house is mid-century modern, the interior should be primarily outfitted with mid-century modern style furniture. Prospective buyers who like the exterior style of your home are going to expect something similar when they step inside. If the two styles don’t agree or at least complement each other, there is likely going to be an immediate disconnect for the buyer.

There is always room for flexibility. Not all your furnishings need to match, and even the primary furnishings do not need to be an exact match to the architectural style of your home. To create cohesion, you simply need to reflect the overall look-and-feel of the exterior.

Neutralize and Brighten

Every home is a personal expression of its owner. But when you become a seller, you’ll want to look for ways to make your home appeal to your target market. Keep in mind, your target market is made up of the group of people most likely to be interested in a home like yours—which is something your agent can help you determine.

A good strategy to staging your home is to “neutralize” the design of your interior. A truly neutral interior design allows people to easily imagine their own belongings in the space—and to envision how some simple changes would make it uniquely their own.

Paint over bold wall colors with something more neutral, like a light beige, warm gray, or soft brown. The old advice used to be, “paint everything white,” but often that creates too sterile of an environment, while dark colors can make a room look small, even a bit dirty. Muted tones and soft colors work best. Likewise, consider removing wallpaper if it’s a bold or busy design.

Lighting is key. Replace heavy, dark curtains with neutral-colored shear versions; this will soften the hard edges around windows while letting in lots of natural light. Turn on lamps, and if necessary, install lighting fixtures to brighten any dark spaces—especially the entry area.

Clean and De-Clutter

To further inspire buyers to imagine the space as their own, make sure every room—including closets and the garage—is clean and clutter-free. You may even want to hire professionals to give your home a thorough deep clean. Remember, the kitchen and bathrooms are by far the two most important rooms in a house when selling, so ongoing maintenance is important.

Family photos, personal memorabilia, and collectibles should be removed from the home for your safety. Closets, shelves, and other storage areas should be mostly empty. Work benches should be free of tools and projects. Clear the kitchen counters, store non-necessary cookware, and remove magnets from the refrigerator door.

The same goes for furniture. If removing a chair, a lamp, a table, or other furnishings will make a particular space look larger or more inviting, then do it.

You don’t want your home to appear cold, un-loved, or unlived-in, but you do want to remove distractions and provide prospective buyers with a blank canvas of sorts. Plus, de-cluttering your home now will make it that much easier to pack when it comes time to move.

Where to Start

If you’re concerned about the additional cost of staging, rest assured. Even a relatively small investment of time and money can reap big returns. There are even things you can do yourself for little to no cost. Contact your agent for advice on how to stage your home most effectively or for a recommendation on a professional stager. While the simple interior design techniques outlined above may seem more like common sense than marketing magic, you’d be surprised at how many homeowners routinely overlook them. And the results are clear: staging your house to make it more appealing to buyers is often all it takes to speed the sale and boost the sale price.

Buying • Selling • May 29, 2024

Why Buyer Representation Should Matter So Much to Sellers

by Windermere Staff

Real estate agent showing a couple a new house. The house is contemporary. All are happy and smiling and shaking hands. The couple are casually dressed and the agent is in a suit. The house has a brick facade

In today’s rapidly changing real estate landscape, understanding the critical role of buyer representation has never been more essential for home sellers. With the pending NAR settlement on the horizon, many sellers may not fully grasp the significant impact these changes will have on their transactions. The urgency to adapt is real, and overlooking the necessity of paying a buyer agent commission could expose sellers to unforeseen risks.

Currently, home buyers are not allowed to roll their buyer agent compensation into their loan. This means they must bring cash to the table to pay their agent (if the seller is not offering buyer agent compensation).

Unrepresented buyers should be considered more than a minor hiccup—it can lead to a cascade of complications that jeopardize the entire deal. To safeguard your investment and ensure a smooth transaction, it’s crucial to recognize the invaluable support a buyer’s agent provides.

What value does a seller receive if the buyer has professional representation? Let us list the ways:

Lender Connections: Buyer agents connect their buyers with well-vetted (and typically local) lender partners who have proven time and again that they can close a transaction, and on time.

Documentation Management: Buyer agents ensure that buyers have delivered all necessary documentation to the lender to ensure full underwriting.

Market Analysis: Buyer agents provide comparable market analysis reports (CMAs) to help buyers understand the market value of the home and support a reasonable offer price.

Contract Guidance: Buyer agents guide their clients through the purchase and sale agreement, ensuring that they understand the terms and conditions and their ability to fulfill their commitments.

Contingency Explanation: Buyer agents explain all contingencies to buyers, ensuring they understand the risks and rewards, especially when waiving contingencies.

Earnest Money Handling: Buyer agents ensure that earnest money funds are delivered to escrow on time.

Transaction Deadlines: Buyer agents ensure that their client and their lender observe and adhere to all deadlines to keep the transaction flowing smoothly and closing on time.

Inspection Access: Buyer agents provide access to home inspectors and help their buyers understand the reports. This is critical as most MLS associations require an agent to be present whenever a door is opened. If the buyer doesn’t have representation, the listing agent must give access, exposing them to inspection findings and forcing them to disclose on behalf of the seller.

Appraisal Assistance: Buyer agents give access to appraisers and typically provide reports of comparable properties to support the purchase price, ensuring the property appraises at value.

Negotiation Support: If the appraisal report comes in less than the purchase price, the buyer agent will help negotiate and collaborate with the listing agent to ensure a mutual agreement is reached by all parties.

Transaction Coordination: Most importantly, the buyer broker helps keep their client and all parties on track to ensure closing, and crucially, on time.

The value a buyer agent brings to the transaction is indispensable. Their expertise not only facilitates a smoother process but also protects all parties involved from potential pitfalls. By ensuring the buyer has professional representation, sellers can avoid significant risks and secure a successful transaction. In the evolving real estate market, investing in buyer agent compensation is a wise decision that benefits everyone involved.

Cassie Walker Johnson is a Managing Broker at Windermere Real Estate in Seattle, WA. This blog originally published on Inman News on 5/21/24.

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Design • May 20, 2024

What Defines Houseboat Architecture?

by Windermere Staff

Several houseboats in Seattle, WA lined up next to each other on the water.

Waterfront living appeals to many homeowners who seek the sights and sounds that only water can provide. Maybe you dream about hearing the waves hitting the shore as you fall asleep or being mere steps away from your own boat launch. The possibilities are endless, but for the ultimate waterfront property, houseboats are made for those who truly love the water.

Though it’s possible to live on a boat, houseboats differ from traditional water-borne vessels in a few key ways. For instance, they are moored in one location and, even though some have motors, they aren’t usually easily moveable from place to place. For the purposes of this article, we’ll focus on non-cruising houseboats—or as they’re also known, floating homes.

Houseboats are real property

If you choose to make a houseboat your home, you can expect many of the same responsibilities of a traditional home. You’ll need access to utilities, and you may pay property taxes. Houseboats are often moored in marinas or on docks that require moorage fees and for homeowners to join homeowners association organizations. Because houseboats are often quite literally floating single-family homes, they aren’t easily relocated, so the location of the houseboat is an important factor to consider.

Houseboats are typically modest in size

Most houseboats in the Western United States are relatively small compared to traditional houses. This is because many of them started out as shanty houses in the early 20^th century for boat builders and fishermen who needed places to live.

Though you can find luxurious houseboats whose size and amenities rival land-based luxury homes, most houseboat owners get around the limitations of the small footprint by building up instead of out, adding second stories and rooftop decks.

Houseboats are ideal for minimalist living

Due to their size and lack of storage, houseboats are best suited for small families, empty nesters, or single occupants. What they lack in space, they make up for in the perks of being so close to nature and the rhythms of the water. And while living on the water brings different home maintenance responsibilities than living on land, you can say goodbye to chores like mowing the grass.

Houseboats are as diverse as traditional houses

Just like homes on solid ground, houseboats are built from a wide variety of materials and can range in style from mid-century modern to cozy cottage. And while they might lack land, many houseboats have outdoor living spaces and rooftop patios that allow for further enjoyment of the natural landscapes surrounding them.