Click Here to View Full Web Newsletter Version: Home is Where Your Heart Is
Valentine’s Day is right around the corner. Time to make the restaurant reservation, buy the wine and roses and chocolates, and make all the sweet, fleeting gestures that a good Hallmark holiday requires. Forgive the unintended cynicism. But you could also show your home and hearth some long-lasting love this Valentine’s season. Show your home affection in ways that will boost its value and make it a more blissful place to live (because The “Home” Team is all about that!). Guaranteed, it will love you back! Here are a few ways to do that.
Clean It Up
Don’t wait until Spring goads you into giving your house a good cleaning. Break out the rubber gloves and deep clean now. Take the extra time to address the areas you usually don’t clean, like your washing machine, refrigerator and other appliances, light fixtures and the forever neglected furnace and hot water heater. Nothing exclaims homeowner TLC likes a sparkling mechanical room. It might take a few hours out of your day, but the results will sing like a 70s love song.
Organize a Problem Area
The entryway, the forgotten coat closet, the junk drawer – every home has a dirty little secret, an area where we throw miscellaneous items we don’t know how to organize (or let’s be honest, we don’t want to organize). Cut the clutter and organize a problem area of your home. Just pick one area that you use often and needs a little pick me up.
Fix Something That’s Broken
Maybe you’ve been making it work until now, but if something is broken in your home, take time to fix it. Leaky faucet in your bathroom? Cut the dripping with this guide. Drafty attic? Maybe it’s time to replace your insulation. Most minor repairs you can do DIY-style, but if you have the budget to tackle a larger fix, call a professional.
Give It an Upgrade
Is your home stuck in the 1970s with popcorn ceilings, shag carpet or wood-paneled walls? Maybe it’s time to bring your home into the 21st century by giving it an update.
Are your appliances on their last leg? When’s the last time you checked their birthdate? Consider upgrading your home appliances . New appliances will work more efficiently and might even save you money in energy costs.These upgrades will not only make your home a more comfortable place to live but will yield a high return on investment (ROI) should you decide to sell.
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Redecorate a Room
Style is always evolving. We’ve seen a change in interior home décor trends just in the last few years. If you’re looking to show your home some love, consider redecorating a room.
Or if you’re still stuck on last year’s trend, consider decorating your room with timeless home decor that will look good no matter the season or style.
Increase Its Curb Appeal
If you live in a state with a colder climate in February, it might seem like a bad time to address your home’s curb appeal, but it’s just as important as in any other season. Try adding a wreath and doormat to your front porch or entryway to dress it up. If you live in a warmer climate, a low-effort, but high-impact project could be giving your garage or front door a fresh coat of paint. You’ll be surprised how it can change the look of your home.
Add Smart Technology
If you haven’t been checking out the latest in smart home technology, you’ll be surprised how much automation you can put into your home. Smart thermometers, home security systems and indoor lighting automation have all improved over the last few years.
Adding a smart device to your home could also make your home more energy efficient, saving you money and reducing your carbon footprint .
Show It Off
Last, but not least, show off your home to friends and family. You’ve put the work in, now take time to host a gathering and show off your special place. It is important for home owners to understand that today’s buyer has access to more information and is therefore more savvy than ever before. Small issues often trigger red flags with buyers which have them opting to walk away rather than walking into the unknown. Even if you are not contemplating selling now, you very well might be some day and preventative maintenance (LOVE) spent today often saves thousands later. It’s best to take extra special care of your home long before you even consider putting it on the market.
If you or anyone you know is thinking about buying or selling we hope you think of us at The “Home” Team. We love what we do and look forward to the opportunity to show you just how much we care about your real estate needs.
