In a time where sales of new and existing homes are sluggish in general, sales of multi-million dollar homes are surprisingly strong. Luxury homes, costing $5 million and above, climbed 31 percent during the first quarter last year over the previous year, according to DataQuick, a real estate research firm. This year, values in the…
Feng Shui (pronounced “fung shway”) is the ancient Chinese practice of arranging space to promote harmony in an environment. Home owners who are preparing their home to sell can take a few simple tips from this venerable tradition.The first step is to engage the senses: Your home should look good: A buyer’s first impression should…
Homeowners who actively help minimize household-related sources of pollution are truly contributing to the preservation of our environment. The way we use and dispose of common household products can affect both the quality of our soil and our freshwater resources. Our ground waters can be contaminated by chemicals contained in household cleaning supplies, pesticides, plant fertilizers,…
We’ve all seen the news reports about the real estate market slow down. Those reports have motivated many home buyers to wait until they are certain that the market has reached the bottom before they buy, so they can get the best deal. This might not be the best strategy, here’s why:First, it is nearly…
In today’s environmentally challenged, energy conscious world, it pays to be efficiency minded when considering the energy features of a prospective property. According to the National Association of Home Builders, there are specific elements that identify energy efficient homes. An educated homebuyer should be familiar with each one. Look for double paned windows with…
Many homeowners presume their homeowner’s warranty has comprehensive coverage only to discover there are a number of exclusions. It’s understandable to expect that a homeowner’s warranty policy would compliment the importance of the purchase, but this is not always the case. When it comes to home warranties, reading the fine print is an imperative method…
Overpricing is a common blunder committed by many an anxious seller and some real estate agents. With so much riding on the outcome of the sale, it’s a mistake easily made, but it can be a costly one. When shopping for a home, the majority of buyers consider the price first. If it is…
A second home in a hot location provides the buyer with a desirable vacation get-away, secured returns, tax benefits and incredible long-term investment potential. Yes, there are always going to be more people competing for the same sandy beaches or waterfront properties, but that means there will always be eager buyers and renters to…
Would you like to create a dream vacation home that you can use for rest, relaxation and recreation? Market studies show that sales of second homes now account for more than one-third of all residential real estate transactions, so buying a vacation retreat is an excellent investment. Focus your home search on the…
What home design features are the most popular among buyers of vacation properties? Vacation homeowners want to achieve the maximum in comfort, privacy and well-appointed living space. Dual walk-in closets, dual vanity sinks or his-and her bathrooms in the guest suite or master bedroom are popular features. Give the master bath a spa-like feel with…
Valuation of any home takes into account its size, features, condition and location. Of these factors, location is the one element that cannot be altered. A home in a high demand location will always represent a greater market value than a comparable home in a less desirable location. Buyers who can afford to pay top…
More Americans than ever before in history can afford to buy or build a second home, and guess where they are investing? They want to live near their favorite recreation spots. Real estate sales in the most popular “adult playgrounds” have climbed steadily over the past decade, despite variable economic conditions. Second-home investments are…
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