Home Staging • Seller Tips • January 1, 2025

Selling this Spring? 6-Month Plan to Get Your House Ready: Month 3 – January

by Jessica Hoelzel

Declutter Kitchen & Living Spaces

Nobody wants a cramped or cluttered living area.

Open and spacious kitchens, living rooms and family rooms are the ideal spaces buyers are seeking. Ones that function the way they want to live, and that they can see themselves spending time in.

When you’re getting your house ready for sale, focus on one area at a time, decluttering and setting it up for optimal functionality.

Here’s where to start:

KITCHEN
Go through every cabinet, drawer, and the pantry.
1) Donate things you don’t use
2) Toss anything broken or worn out
3) Store little-used items

Then…
• Remove everything from the outside and top of the refrigerator for less visual distraction.
• Remove rugs and anything stored on the floor, which tends to make a space look chopped up.
• Clear nearly everything from countertops – they are a premium workspace and the more horizontal space, the more spacious it will feel.

LIVING AND FAMILY ROOMS
Make these spaces look open and inviting by removing extra things, furniture, and visual clutter:

• Purge or store books, magazines, DVDs and games
• Wrap and store knick-knacks and personal photos
• Tidy or hide cords and cables
• Remove furniture as needed to create a better flow (side tables, ottomans, extra chairs, oversized furniture)

Ideally, your living space is clear and spacious, with furniture arranged around a focal point.

When you’re finished decluttering, the communal areas in your home should feel lighter and more open – ready for buyers to picture themselves living in.

Missed the first two posts in this series? Check out:

Month 1: November, Clear out garage and storage

Month 2: December, Declutter closets

Have you gotten a market analysis on your home yet? Connect with me to find out what it’s worth.

Buying New Construction • December 17, 2024

The Top 2 Reasons To Look at Newly Built Homes

by Jessica Hoelzel

When planning a move, a newly built home might not be the first thing that comes to mind. But with more brand-new homes on the market and builders focusing on smaller, more affordable options, this type of home may just be the key to crossing the homebuying finish line.

Here’s why a new build is worth considering – and how an agent can help you find one that meets your needs and your budget.

1. More Newly Built Homes Are Available Right Now
First, let’s break down the types of homes on the market. A newly built home is a house that was just built or is under construction. On the other hand, an existing home is one a homeowner has already lived in.

Right now, the number of existing homes for sale is still low. And, if you’re struggling to find something you like because there aren’t that many existing homes for sale, opening up your search to include brand-new homes could really expand your options. That’s because there are more newly built homes available right now than in a typical year.

From 1983 to 2019, newly built homes made up only 13% of the total inventory of homes for sale. Today, that number has climbed to 28.8%, according to the most recent data.

And as Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at the National Association of Realtors (NAR), notes:

“Even though existing home sales have been stuck at low levels, newly constructed home sales look to mark one of its best annual performance in 15 years . . . The new home inventory has been consistently rising with homebuilders getting active and making up around 1/3 of total inventory.”

While the uptick in new home construction is encouraging, rest assured that builders aren’t overdoing it, they’re just making up for over a decade of underbuilding. There are still way more buyers than there are homes on the market. But the good news for you is this increase in newly built homes means more options for your search.

2. Newly Built Homes Are Becoming Less Expensive
Still skeptical if a new build is right for you or if they’re even in your budget? The average cost of newly built homes has actually come down from a year ago.

Why is that? Builders know affordability is top of mind for homebuyers right now. So they’re focusing their efforts on building smaller homes they can offer at lower price points and are more likely to sell. As Realtor.com says:

“Builders are increasingly bringing smaller, more affordable homes to the market, so buyers may find more newly-built homes that fit their budget.”

Something to keep in mind: buying a newly built home isn’t the same as buying an existing one. Builder contracts have different fine print. So be sure to partner with a local agent who knows the market, builder reputations, and what to look for in those contracts.

Bottom Line
Depending on your needs and budget, a new build might be the opportunity you’ve been waiting for to bring your homebuying vision to life. If you’re interested in a brand-new home, let’s connect so you can check out what builders in your area are up to.

This article is authored and republished courtesy of Coldwell Banker Realty.

Home Staging • Seller Tips • December 1, 2024

Selling this Spring? 6-Month Plan to Get Your House Ready: Month 2 – December

by Jessica Hoelzel

Declutter Closets

Storage is BIG on a buyer’s list of must haves. Make sure your home checks the box for plenty of closet space by removing at least 1/3 of the items in your closets:

• Coat/entry closets
• Linen closets
• Bedroom closets
• Walk-in closets
• Pantry closets
• Storage closets

Removing ½ to ¾ of the items is even better, to maximize a buyer’s view of the capacity and built-ins.

What to do with all the stuff?
• Trash
• Donate
• Pre-pack
• Store elsewhere

Get rid of the things you don’t want or need in your new house:
• Things you don’t like
• Things you don’t use
• Things that are worn
• Things that are out of style
• Things that don’t fit
• Things that have a bad memory attached to them

When deciding what to store elsewhere, pay close attention to off-season items like seasonal clothing and decorations. They can go for now. Memorabilia/sentimental items can go for now. Large appliances, entertaining items, and stuff that is rarely-used can go for now.

The stuff in your closets is personal. You don’t want buyers looking at your stuff, you want them to look at the features of your house. (And want to buy it.) So get to work!

Check out my 1st post in this series:
Month 1: November – Clear out garage and storage for more tips

Have you gotten a market analysis on your home yet? Connect with me to find out what it’s worth.

Buyer Tips • November 11, 2024

How Coldwell Banker Realty Agents Take the Fear Out of Moving

by Jessica Hoelzel

Feeling a bit unsure, or even afraid, to move with everything going on right now? The decision to move shouldn’t be scary, it should be exciting. And the best way to eliminate any fear is to work with a pro.

Real estate agents are so much more than just transaction facilitators; they’re trusted guides to help you navigate the complexities of the housing market with confidence and ease. And a great agent can turn what may feel like a daunting process into a manageable—and even enjoyable—experience.

That’s why, in a Bright MLS survey, respondents agreed partnering with an agent is essential and helps cut down on their stress.

Here are just a few examples of why that expertise can give you so much peace of mind.

1. Explaining the Current Market
You may be seeing misleading headlines about a potential market crash, falling prices, and more. And when you’re not an expert yourself, it’s easy to get swept up in the clickbait and let that scare you. As Jason Lewris, Co-Founder and Chief Data Officer at Parcl, says:

“In the absence of trustworthy, up-to-date information, real estate decisions are increasingly being driven by fear, uncertainty, and doubt.”

A real estate agent is there to help you separate fact from fiction and to debunk any headline that does more to terrify than clarify. With their deep understanding of local market trends, home values, inventory levels, and more, they’ll help you feel more confident in your decision.

2. Walking You Through the Process Step-by-Step
Is this your first time going through the process as a buyer or a seller? Don’t worry. Your agent will walk you through every step along the way, from the initial conversation all the way to closing day. As NerdWallet explains:

“If it’s your first time buying — or selling — you’re likely to come across terms you don’t recognize and tasks that seem baffling. What’s the difference between pending and contingent? Why do you need title insurance? How thoroughly do you need to fill out disclosure forms? Your agent should be able to confidently and competently explain it all.”

And if you’ve done this before, but it’s been a while, an agent will tailor how they explain it all to your previous experience. They won’t bog you down with details, they’ll only give you as much of a refresher as you want and need.

3. Advocating for Your Best Interests
Does the thought of dealing with the back and forth of the transaction make your palms sweaty? Put that anxiety aside. Your Coldwell Banker Realty agent is a skilled negotiator trained for these exact scenarios. And the best part is, they work for you. So, it’s your goals they’re using that expertise to fight for.

They’ll work to secure the best possible terms for you, whether it’s getting a better price as a homebuyer or negotiating a higher sale price as a seller. This removes the fear of a bad deal or being taken advantage of during the process.

4. Solving Any Unexpected Problems Quickly
Worried something is going come up that you don’t know how to handle? Rest assured, your agent has you covered.

Agents are skilled problem-solvers. They not only address issues, but they get ahead of them before they become deal-breakers – and that helps keep the process on track. So, if any challenges do pop up, know your agent has the skills and experience necessary to find a solution that works for you.

Bottom Line
Don’t let fear or uncertainty hold you back from achieving your goals. Let’s connect so you can move forward with confidence.

This article is authored and republished courtesy of Coldwell Banker Realty.

Home Staging • Seller Tips • November 5, 2024

How to Prepare a Vacant Home for Sale

by Jessica Hoelzel

Vacant real estate listings can feel cold, empty and uninviting. Set yours apart from the competition with these tips for more interest and better offers. The goal: a fast, profitable sale!

Increase curb appeal

Touch up peeling/worn paint or repaint if needed
Remove any garden art, lawn ornaments and bird feeders
In Summer, have lawn freshly mowed, weeds removed, bushes trimmed
In Spring/Fall, clear all leaves and dead plants; mulch in Spring
In Winter, clear driveway, steps, sidewalks and all walkways of snow
Make sure house numbers are clearly visible

Pay attention to the front door

Remove any dirt, cobwebs or debris around the door and clean door glass
In Winter, treat walkways and steps with a sand/salt mixture
Add a new welcome mat at the door exterior and a new rug inside

Make it bright

Ensure all light fixtures are working and replace bulbs as needed
Open all window curtains and shades to let natural light in
In Winter, consider leaving the porch light and one light on inside (or on a timer)

Fix anything broken

Do an inventory of each room and note what needs attention
Fix or replace what you can, hire professionals to handle the rest

Clean, clean, clean!

Whether you do it yourself or hire a professional, everything needs to be cleaned, top to bottom
Kitchens and baths: deep clean all surfaces, wipe cabinets and drawers, shine fixtures and glass
Wipe down walls, clean light fixtures, remove dust and cobwebs, clean baseboards and flooring throughout

Eliminate odors

Have all carpets professionally cleaned; remove and replace any exceptionally worn or soiled carpet
Open all windows periodically to let fresh air in; use fans or humidifiers when not being shown

Bring in something live

Add flowers at the front door: Spring–pansies, Summer–geraniums/petunias, Fall–mums, Winter–evergreens
Place a vase of flowers or a potted flowering plant on the kitchen counter or island

Make it comfortable

Set the thermostat to 65-70 degrees so visitors are neither too hot nor too cold and humidity isn’t a factor

Consider vacant home staging

Serious about getting top dollar for your home? Our best recommendations is to have it professionally staged. It elevates buyers’ impressions, and will bring your listing to a whole new level against the competition. Ask me how.

Home Staging • Seller Tips • November 1, 2024

Selling this Spring? 6-Month Plan to Get Your House Ready: Month 1 – November

by Jessica Hoelzel

Clear out the garage and storage

Before the temps drop too low, get out there and:

-Sort
-Purge
-Clean

Garages tend to collect a lot of misc items that you “may need later.” Take an honest inventory of what you need and what you don’t.

(Maybe your life has changed over the years, maybe you don’t want to head into your next home with a bunch of things you don’t need. That’s a good plan.)

Bonus: You will have a nice clean garage to park your car in this winter!

Game plan:
1) Take everything out and sort it in the yard
2) Clean the floor, surfaces, any cobwebs
3) Put back the things I want to keep

***TIP***
Make sure to leave a designated space as a “staging area” for things you’re getting rid of (donating, selling online, giving back to someone, etc). It will come in handy as you clear things out from the house over the next few months. Use labels if you need to, but the main thing is to stay proactive about getting that stuff gone and keeping it clear!

AND…do the same in your indoor storage areas:

-Crawlspaces
-Basement shelving
-Storage rooms

As you prep your home for staging to sell, leave some clear space in these areas to stash stuff you don’t want out on display.

🏡 Less stuff and clear spaces are always more when you sell a house! 🏡

Have you gotten a market analysis on your home yet? Connect with me to find out what it’s worth.

Seller Tips • October 31, 2024

Planning To Sell Your House in 2025? Start Prepping Now

by Jessica Hoelzel

If your goal is to sell your house in 2025, now’s the time to start prepping. Even though it might seem like there’s plenty of time between now and the new year, you should get a head start on any updates or repairs you want to make now. As Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at Realtor.com, says:

“ . . . now is the time to start thinking about what you need for your next home and then taking those steps to prepare to list . . . We have survey data that says 47 percent of sellers are taking longer than a month to get their home ready to sell, so getting them to start that process early can mean more flexibility.”

By starting your prep work early, you’ll give yourself plenty of time to get your house market-ready by the end of the year. But be sure to partner with a great agent before you get started, so you have expert insight into what repairs are worth it based on your local market.

Why Starting Early Is Key
To get the best price and sell quickly, it’s important that your home looks its best. And that means it’s up to you to make the necessary repairs, declutter, and even consider updates that could add value as part of getting your house ready to list.

By starting now, you can tackle things one task at a time. Whether it’s fixing that leaky faucet, refreshing your landscaping, or painting a room, getting an early start gives you the flexibility to do the job right and with as little stress as possible. Because, if you wait to knock items off your list later on, they could quickly stack up and get overwhelming. As Realtor.com explains:

“There are some important repairs to make before selling a house, so don’t be in too much of a hurry to get your home listed … if you move too fast, buyers see right through the fact that you skipped important home renovations. And this . . . might end up costing you time and money.”

What Should You Focus On?
Feeling motivated to start chipping away at that to-do list, but not sure where to start? Here’s a look at the most common improvements other sellers are making today (see graph below):

The Importance of Working with a Local Agent
And while that data gives you a starting point, it shouldn’t be seen as a comprehensive list. What buyers want in your area may be different, and only a local Coldwell Banker Realty agent will have this in-depth understanding.

For example, if homes in your area are selling quickly with updated kitchens, your agent might suggest focusing on minor kitchen improvements rather than spending money on other areas that won’t offer as much return. They’ll also help you figure out if tackling larger projects, such as replacing your roof or upgrading your HVAC system, is worth it based on other recently sold homes. As Point says:

“Not all renovations are created equal, and focusing on upgrades that offer the highest potential for increasing your home’s value is key.”

And remember, it’s not just big-ticket items that can have an impact. Your agent will also speak to some of the smaller details – like cleaning up your yard, adding fresh mulch, or painting your front door – to make a real difference in how buyers feel about your home. This type of expert eye is crucial to help your house sell fast and for top dollar.

Bottom Line
Thinking of selling your house next year? Don’t wait until the last minute to get it ready. By getting a head start now, you can ensure everything is in place by the time the new year rolls around. Need advice on what to tackle first? Let’s connect

This article is authored and republished courtesy of Coldwell Banker Realty.

Buying New Construction • October 28, 2024

Why a Coldwell Banker Realty Agent Is Essential When Buying a Newly Built Home

by Jessica Hoelzel

For some buyers, there’s a misconception that newly built homes aren’t made to last or fall short of the quality you can find in older homes. Unfortunately, this is turning some buyers away from what may be one of their best options in today’s housing market. As Builder Online says:

“As resale inventory remains limited and the price spread between new and resale homes narrows, new homes are increasingly an attractive value proposition for buyers, with incentives such as rate buydowns a way to help address ongoing affordability challenges.”

So, is there any merit to the myth? Let’s break down the best way to make sure you feel good about looking into new home construction. That way, you’re not missing out on such a great option today.

Choosing the Right Builder
The key to making sure you get a quality newly built home is to choose a good builder. Reputable builders adhere to strict building codes and standards, use advanced construction techniques, and often offer warranties that cover structural issues for several years. That’s why the Mortgage Reports offers this advice:

“When embarking on the journey of buying a new construction home, one of the most important steps is selecting the right builder. This decision can significantly impact the quality and satisfaction you derive from your new home.”

And while you could dig into research about all the builders in your area, there’s an easier option to get the job done: lean on a pro. When you work with a local Coldwell Banker Realty real estate agent, they already know about the builders and the new home communities under construction in your area.

Beyond that, maybe they’ve even worked with other buyers who opted for a home in one of those neighborhoods. Here are just a few of the things your agent will help you with:

1. The Builder’s Reputation: Your agent will help point you toward builders with strong reputations and positive reviews from previous buyers. Additionally, your agent will make sure the builder is licensed and insured. Membership in professional organizations, such as the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), is also a good sign of a builder’s commitment to industry standards.

2. Their Model Homes: Your agent will also be able to tell you if the builders have model homes you can tour. And when your agent walks through the model with you, they’ll draw your attention to the little details that matter most. Things like the quality of finishes, layout, and overall feel of the home.

3. Builder Warranties: Your agent will also be able to help you navigate any builder offers or incentives. Reputable builders often provide warranties to cover major structural elements of the home for a significant period of time. This is a testament to their confidence in the quality of their construction.

4. Getting Inspections: Even with new homes, inspections are crucial. Your agent will coordinate the inspections with licensed professionals to ensure the home meets safety and quality standards before you move in.

Coldwell Banker Realty Agents Are the MVP When You’re Buying a Brand-New Home
Maybe that’s why data shows homebuyers unanimously scored their agents higher than their builders when looking back on their recent purchase:

So, you don’t need to worry that they just don’t make them like they used to. By working with a knowledgeable real estate agent to choose a reputable builder, you can feel confident when buying a newly built home today. As Realtor.com says:

“If you are interested in buying a new construction . . . You need your own real estate agent from the get-go. Even if it seems like plug and play to sign up with the builder’s on-site agent, you’re going to want someone representing your side of the deal.”

Bottom Line
If you’re considering buying a brand-new home, don’t let misconceptions hold you back. Let’s work together to find a home you’ll love and be proud to call your own.

This article is authored and republished courtesy of Coldwell Banker Realty.

Real Estate Guidance • October 7, 2024

Why Working with a Coldwell Banker Real Estate Professional Is Crucial Right Now

by Jessica Hoelzel

Navigating the housing market can be tricky, especially these days. That’s why having an experienced guide when buying or selling a home is so important. The market isn’t exactly straightforward right now, and working with a real estate expert can offer insights and advice that make all the difference.

While today’s market conditions might seem confusing or overwhelming, you don’t have to handle them alone. With a trusted expert leading you through every step, you can navigate the process with the clarity and confidence you deserve.

Here are just a few of the ways a Coldwell Banker real estate expert is invaluable:

Contracts – Agents help with the disclosures and contracts necessary in today’s heavily regulated environment.

Experience – In today’s market, experience is crucial. Real estate professionals know the entire sales process, including how it’s changing right now.

Negotiations – Your real estate advisor acts as a buffer in negotiations with all parties, and advocates for your best interests throughout the entire transaction.

Industry Expertise– Knowledge is power in today’s market, and your advisor will simply and effectively explain processes, market conditions, and key terms, translating what they mean for you along the way along the way¬.

Pricing – A real estate professional understands current real estate values when setting the price of your home or helping you make an offer to purchase one. Pricing matters more than ever right now, so having expert advice will help ensure you’re set up for success.

A Coldwell Banker real estate agent is a crucial guide through this challenging market, but not all agents are created equal. A true expert can carefully walk you through the whole real estate process, look out for your unique needs, and advise you on the best ways to achieve success.

Finding an expert real estate advisor – not just any agent – should be your top priority if you want to buy or sell a home. As Bankrate says:

“Real estate is very localized, and you want someone who’s extremely knowledgeable about the market in your specific area. You should also look for someone with a successful track record of negotiating and closing deals, preferably for homes similar to the kind you want to buy.”

What’s the Key To Choosing the Right Expert?

Like any relationship, it starts with trust. You’ll want to know you can depend on that person to always put you and your best interests first. That means hiring a true professional. As Business Insider explains:

“As long as you’ve properly vetted the agents you’re considering and ensured they have the necessary expertise, it’s ok to go with your gut when making your final decision on which real estate agent you want to work with. You’re going to be working closely with this person, so it’s important to choose an agent you’re comfortable with.”

Bottom Line

It’s critical to have an expert on your side who’s well-versed in navigating today’s housing market dynamics. If you’re planning to buy or sell a home this year, let’s connect so you have a real estate professional to give you the best advice and guide you along the way.

This article is authored and republished courtesy of Coldwell Banker Realty.

Buying New Construction • October 7, 2024

The Top 2 Reasons To Consider a Newly Built Home

by Jessica Hoelzel

When you’re planning a move, it’s normal to wonder where you’ll end up and what your future home is going to look like. Maybe you’ve got a specific picture of that house in your mind. But unless you came into this process knowing you want to buy a newly built home, you may not have pictured new home construction.

A trusted real estate agent can help walk you through these two reasons you may want to reconsider that.

Adding Newly Built Homes Could Give You More Options

There are two types of homes on the market: new and existing. A newly built home refers to a house that was just built or is under construction. An existing home is one a previous homeowner has already lived in. Right now, the inventory of existing homes is tight. But there may be options for you on the new home side of things.

Data from the Census and the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows that newly built homes are a bigger part of today’s housing inventory than the norm.

From 1983 to 2019 (the last normal year in the market), newly built homes made up only 13% of the total inventory of homes for sale. But today that number has climbed to over 33%.

Rest assured, after over a decade of underbuilding, builders aren’t overdoing it today. Even with an increase in new construction today, there’s still a significant housing shortage overall. But for you, the uptick in new builds can be a game changer because it gives you more options for your search.

Newly Built Homes May Be More Affordable Than You’d Think

You may still be wondering if a new build could really be an option for you. If you’ve previously written them off because you thought they would be out of your budget, consider this. The price gap between a newly built home and an existing house is shrinking. Here’s why.

Builders are going to build what’s in demand. And they know people need more options right now, especially ones that are smaller and potentially more affordable. So, they’re focusing on building smaller homes at lower price points.

As LendingTree explains:

“In the past, newly built homes have been much more expensive than existing homes — but that gap has been getting smaller recently. In some places today, you may find that the cost to build versus buy is roughly the same.”

And an article from CNBC says:

“While new builds are still sold for slightly more than existing homes, the price gap has significantly narrowed . . .”

Not to mention, some builders are even offering price cuts and mortgage rate buy-downs right now to sweeten the deal. Today there are many reasons new builds may be worth considering. Other buyers sure seem to think so. As Freddie Mac says:

“As the supply of existing homes for sale remains low and home prices continue to rise, more buyers are choosing to purchase new homes than in previous years.”

Just know that buying a newly built home isn’t the same as buying an existing one. Builder contracts have different fine print. So, partner with a Coldwell Banker Realty agent who knows the market, builder reputations, and what to look for in those contracts so you have an expert on your side to help you explore this option.

Bottom Line

If you want to find out what builders are doing in our area, let’s connect and check it out together. And if you’re willing to cast a wider net to open up your options even more, we can talk about broadening your search to include other towns nearby.

This article is authored and republished courtesy of Coldwell Banker Realty.

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