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9 Fun Summer DIY Projects for Your Home
Sun’s out…fun’s out! Our glorious PNW summer is coming in hot with endless opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. Here are some fun and easy project ideas to help you make the most of it!
1. Backyard Movie Theater
Outdoor movies are a great way to enjoy your yard and entertain a crowd (and keep the mess outside, too!). Looking for affordable and easy? You can find portable, outdoor, Bluetooth enabled projectors for under $100; hang up a white sheet or inexpensive screen, grab your portable Bluetooth speaker, and BOOM…it’s movie time. Ready to take the leap and create something more lasting? Here is a great how-to for a wooden frame with pull-down screen + helpful tips for your AV setup.
2. Fire Pit
Who doesn’t love a good s’mores roast? Creating an attractive fire pit may be easier and cheaper than you imagined. One beautifully simple method we love is to create a ring of stacked bricks, stones or cinder blocks on top of a level pea gravel base, then place a store-bought metal fireplace bowl in the center (here is the full how-to). It’s remarkably fast and you don’t even need mortar! You can also go for a modern square look with cinder blocks, use a reclaimed metal receptacle, or find a full kit at the hardware store. Check out this list of 31 DIY fire pit ideas from the Spruce.
3. House Number Planter
Looking to add some instant curb appeal to your home? This elegant, inexpensive design may just be the “WOW!” you’re looking for. Choose modern house numbers for an updated look and then a little wood, some pretty plants, and a couple hours of work is all it takes to make your neighbors jealous.
Photo courtesy of ana-white.com
4. Giant Backyard Jenga
We LOVE this idea for summer BBQs, and it’s so easy! All you need are some 2×3 boards, a miter saw, and sandpaper (or a power sander, if you have one). Bada bing bada boom…jumbo Jenga to entertain kids and adults alike. Here are full instructions courtesy of Her Tool Belt, including the option to go fancy with colors and a DIY carrying crate that also doubles as a stand.
5. Decorative A/C Screen
If you’re lucky enough to have central A/C, you’re also unlucky enough to have an unsightly metal unit sitting in your yard. Fortunately, you can build a simple cover for less than $100 and in less than a day. Here is an easy plan from This Old House, designed with widely spaced slats for air flow and 1 foot of clearance (do your homework on your specific A/C unit before you dive in—you may need to size up). You can paint it to match your house color if you want to go incognito, or stain it for a stylish natural wood look.
Photo courtesy of tarynwhiteaker.com
6. Vertical Garden
Taking advantage of vertical space for planting means that even the smallest of patios can host a garden. It could be as simple as attaching pots to a trellis/rail or framed chicken wire, or something more elaborate like this beautiful living wall by This Old House. Vertical gardens can also double as privacy screens for your yard, porch or patio. Veggie enthusiasts can even build this easy vertical ladder planter with its own drip watering system. For the ultimate quick fix, felt pocket planters offer instant gratification—just attach to your fence or wall, add potting soil + slow release fertilizer + drought-tolerant plants, and water every 2 days. Using freestanding shelves for your container garden is another great option, especially for tenants who need something that is easily removable.
7. Leopold Bench
We love conservationist Aldo Leopold’s simple and iconic wooden bench plan, designed to be used both forward (with a backrest) or backward (where the backrest becomes an elbow rest for using binoculars). Here is a super easy DIY plan with cutting instructions from Construct101. Even amateurs can build this in less than a day, and all it takes are three boards, 6 carriage bolts, and some screws!
Photo courtesy of etsy.com
8. Hose Storage Planter
This ingenious project will boost your curb appeal in two ways, both by being an attractive planter AND by stowing away unsightly hoses in a clever hidden storage compartment. There are a few different styles and plans out there. We like this version from DIY Candy with a hinged front that allows you to access the hose without having to lift up the heavy planter. It can be crafted from a pallet or any other reclaimed wood. The Kim Six Fix also has this version made with cedar fence boards instead.
Photo courtesy of diycandy.com
9. Rain Garden
Did the April showers leave your yard (or basement) a little soggy? Sump pump working overtime? A rain garden is a beautiful way to channel water away from your house while also helping the environment by keeping chemical runoff out of rivers and lakes. The concept is pretty simple: create a below-grade garden bed planted with deep-rooted species that help capture and drain water rapidly into the soil. If you’re serious about improving drainage, you’ll also want either a stone channel or buried PVC pipe to help guide water from your downspout into the garden. Collect some friends to help with the digging! Here are full instructions from the Family Handyman.
If you’re considering selling your home, some of these projects—like planters and vertical garden privacy screens—can help maximize your curb appeal. A rain garden might also be a beautiful solution for drainage issues that need to be resolved before your house can go on the market. Looking for more ideas or advice? Reach out to me any time…I’m never too busy to help!
We earn the trust and loyalty of our brokers and clients by doing real estate exceptionally well. The leader in our market, we deliver client-focused service in an authentic, collaborative, and transparent manner and with the unmatched knowledge and expertise that comes from decades of experience.
© Copyright 2024, Windermere Real Estate/Mercer Island.
Why Buyer Representation Matters So Much to Sellers
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 compensation 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 agent 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.
We earn the trust and loyalty of our brokers and clients by doing real estate exceptionally well. The leader in our market, we deliver client-focused service in an authentic, collaborative, and transparent manner and with the unmatched knowledge and expertise that comes from decades of experience.
This article originally appeared on the Windermere blog on 5/29/24 & Inman News on 5/21/24.
Moving Day: Checklists & Tips to Stress Less
Ah, moving day…that magical mix of excitement, chaos, and occasional panic. Whether it is across town or cross-country, the reality of packing, moving, and setting up a new home can become overwhelming. No list can make a move “stress free,” BUT planning ahead and staying organized can help make your move a little smoother. Here is a printable checklist along with our tips for the big day:
Getting Started
Once you know your prospective move date, set up a quick timeline to make sure you can get all the important tasks done and ready in time for your move.
Consider how much stuff you have by doing a home inventory. This can help you decide whether you need to hire movers to help you or if you will be managing your move on your own. Many moving companies supply inventory lists to help you assess the size of truck you will need. You can use your list as double duty for insurance purposes later (try using this helpful home inventory app from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners).
As soon as you decide how you will be moving, make your reservations. In general, moving companies and truck rental services are over-booked at the beginning and very end of the month. If you are planning on hiring a moving company, contact a few in your area for a price quote. To find companies ask your real estate agent, family, or friends, and consult online reviews. It is also a good idea to request a quote and compare companies.
Preparing for Your Move
- Moving is a great opportunity to get rid of clutter, junk, or outdated items. Set aside some time to sort through your closets, storage spaces, files, drawers, and more. Go through cluttered areas and organize items by “keepers”, “give-aways” and “garbage”. You will have less to pack and an opportunity to update after you move. Contact a local nonprofit organization for your donations; some will arrange to pick up larger donations like furniture. If you have items of value, eBay or craigslist are good options.
- Changing your address is one of the more tedious tasks in the moving process. You will need to change your address with the United States Post Office. You can find the online form here: Movers Guide.
You will also need to change your address with each account you have. Here is a list to get your started:
- Employers
- Bank(s)
- Utilities (Electric, Water/Sewage, Oil/Gas)
- Cable/ Telephone
- Cell phone service
- Credit Cards
- Magazine subscriptions
- Insurance companies (auto, home/renters, health, dental, vision, etc.)
- Pharmacy
- Other personal services
Let the Packing Begin
Before you start packing, it may help to visualize where everything you have will go. Perhaps furniture will fit better in a different room? Consider the floor plan of your new home and figure out what will go where. This will aid in packing and labeling as you box everything up.
Use a tool like floorplanner.com to plan where furniture and items will go.
When it comes to packing you have some options. You can work with a service that provides reusable boxes for moving or you can reuse or purchase cardboard boxes. Make sure you have enough boxes, packing tape, dark markers, and packing paper.
Pack rooms according to your floor plan. Label boxes with contents and room. This will make it easier to unpack your home, knowing where everything is going.
Real Simple magazine has some great tips on packing for your move.
If you have to disassemble any of your furniture, make sure you keep all the parts and directions together. Make sure you set aside your necessities for the day you move. Being tired and unable to take a shower or make your bed can be hard at the end of a long moving day. Here are some ideas of what you may like to pack in your “day-of-move” boxes:
- Clean linens for the beds, pillows and blankets
- Clean towels
- Shower curtain, liner and hooks
- Toiletries, hand soap, tooth brush, etc.
- Disposable utensils, cups, napkins, etc.
- Rolls of toilet paper
- Snacks and water
- Change of clothes
- Tools for reassembling furniture, installing hardware, and hanging photos
Making Your Move
- Come up with a game plan with your family, so everyone has a role and a part to play
- Once the house is empty, do a once over on your old place to make sure it is clean for the next owners/occupants. Here is a useful checklist for cleaning.
Warming Your New Home
Once you have settled into your new home, warm it up by inviting friends and family over to celebrate. Here is a great infographic about housewarming traditions and symbolism. Announce your move to far-away friends and family through moving announcements to make sure you stay on the holiday card mailing list.
Ready to make your move? Reach out to get started.
We earn the trust and loyalty of our brokers and clients by doing real estate exceptionally well. The leader in our market, we deliver client-focused service in an authentic, collaborative, and transparent manner and with the unmatched knowledge and expertise that comes from decades of experience.
© Copyright 2024, Windermere Real Estate/Mercer Island.
Remodeling Projects to Avoid When Selling Your Home
It’s common for homeowners to feel compelled to remodel their homes before they sell. Renovating the spaces in your home can increase its value and help you compete with comparable listings in your area. However, some remodeling projects are more beneficial than others as you get ready to hit the market. Always talk to myself or another local agent to determine which projects are most appealing to buyers in your area.
When preparing to sell your home, you want to strike the right balance of upgrades. Making repairs and executing renovations will attract buyer interest, but you don’t want to dump so much cash into remodeling that you won’t be able to recoup those expenses when your home sells.
So, how do you know where to focus your efforts? Your agent is a vital resource in understanding your specific situation—I typically offer guidance to my clients on remodeling efforts that will help sell their home for the best price. Here are a few projects sellers will want to keep off their to-do lists for the best return on investment…
Major, Pricey Upgrades with Long Timelines
For any remodeling project, an analysis of your home’s value will be key to helping you determine its risk/reward potential (reach out if you’d like one for your home). This dynamic is especially important for big remodels and home upgrades, due to their higher costs. The latest Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report (www.costvsvalue.com)1 data for the Seattle area shows a generally negative return on investment for major, upscale remodeling projects—they only recouped about 25%-30% of their cost…
These projects come with hefty price tags and longer timelines than minor repairs and upgrades, which can complicate factors as you prepare to sell, especially if you have a deadline to get into your new home. They have the potential to temporarily displace you from the property, meaning you and your household may have to find somewhere else to stay until the project is complete.
The Bottom Line: To go through with a major home upgrade before you sell, its schedule must fit with your moving timeline. It should also align with buyer interest in your local market. If the project doesn’t meet these criteria, it should be avoided.
Non-Permitted Projects & Building Code Violations
Before you decide to finish out the basement or make changes to your home’s wiring/structure/mechanical systems, it is important to make sure you obtain the proper city, county and/or state permits + inspections. Non-permitted square footage does not reflect on the county tax record and can lead to low appraisals when the buyer tries to get a loan. Obtaining permits also helps ensure your alterations meet the current building code—otherwise, you may face legal exposure should they create a safety hazard. Furthermore, any non-permitted remodels must be disclosed to the buyer on your Form 17 if you live in Washington State. The buyer’s mortgage lender may also have stipulations saying that the loan may not be used to purchase a home with certain features that aren’t up to code, which could lead to them backing out of the deal.
If you’re selling an older home, you’re not obligated to update every feature that may be out of code to fit modern standards. These projects are often structural and require a significant investment. If the violation in question was built to code according to the regulations at the time, then a grandfather clause typically applies. However, you’ll need to disclose these features to the buyer.
Trendy Makeovers and Upgrades
Lastly, it’s best to avoid remodeling projects that target a specific trend in home design. Trends come and go. Timeless design is a hallmark of marketable homes because it appeals to the widest possible pool of buyers. Keep this in mind when staging your home as well. Creating an environment that’s universally appealing and depersonalized allows buyers to more easily imagine the home as their own.
Wondering which remodeling projects might help your home sell? Reach out any time…I’m never too busy to discuss your options and offer advice based on the current market.
We earn the trust and loyalty of our brokers and clients by doing real estate exceptionally well. The leader in our market, we deliver client-focused service in an authentic, collaborative, and transparent manner and with the unmatched knowledge and expertise that comes from decades of experience.
© Copyright 2024, Windermere Real Estate/Mercer Island.
1©2023 Zonda Media, a Delaware corporation. Complete data from the 2023 Cost vs. Value Report can be downloaded free at www.costvsvalue.com.
Adapted from an article that originally appeared on the Windermere Blog, written by: Sandy Dodge.
Tax Benefits Every Homeowner Should Know About
It’s tax season again, but being a homeowner might just make it rain at refund time. Check out the tax-deductible expenses, exemptions, and credits below. Whether you own a house, condo, or mobile home, they can save you big money when you file. Just be sure to compare your total itemized deductions against the standard deduction and see which is higher (you’ll have to choose between standard OR itemized on your return). It’s also good to know what you can’t deduct before you land in hot water with the IRS…
Mortgage Interest
A house payment is comprised of two parts: principal and interest. The principal goes toward reducing the amount you owe on your loan and is not deductible. However, the interest you pay is deductible as an itemized expense on your tax return. You can generally deduct interest on the first $750,000 of your mortgage (or $375,000 each if you’re married filing separately) if you purchased your home after December 15th 2017. Those who purchased earlier (10/14/1987 – 12/15/2017) can deduct interest paid on up to a $1m mortgage.
Property Taxes
You can deduct up to $10,000 of property taxes you paid (or $5,000 if you’re married filing separately). If you have a mortgage, the amount you paid in taxes will be included on the same annual lender statement that shows your loan interest information. If you paid the property taxes yourself but don’t have receipts, you should be able to locate the total tax amount on your county assessor’s website.
Home Improvements
Making improvements on a home can help you reduce your taxes in a few possible ways:
- If using a home equity loan or other loan secured by a home to finance home improvements, these loans will qualify for the same mortgage interest deductions as the main mortgage. Only the interest associated with the first $100,000 is deductible (and if you’ve already maxed out the interest deduction on your main mortgage, you won’t be eligible for any additional deduction for this loan).
- Tracking home improvements can help when the time comes to sell. If a home sells for more than it was purchased for, that extra money is considered taxable income. However, you are allowed to add capital improvements to the cost/tax basis of your home thereby reducing the amount of taxable income from the sale. Keep in mind that most taxpayers are exempted from paying taxes on the first $250,000 (for single filers) and $500,000 (for joint filers) of gains.
- Home improvements made to accommodate a person with a disability (yourself, your spouse, or your dependents who live with you) may be deductible as medical expenses. Examples include adding ramps, widening doorways/hallways, installing handrails or grab bars, lowering kitchen cabinets, or other modifications to provide wheelchair access.
- If you live in Washington State and apply with your county prior to construction, you may be able to get a 3-year property tax exemption for major home improvements (including an ADU or DADU) that add up to 30% of the original home’s value.
Home Office Deduction
If you run a business out of your home, you can take a deduction for the room or space used exclusively for work as your principal place of business. This includes working from a garage, as well as a typical office space. Unlike most of the other deductible expenses, you can deduct home office expenses even if you opt to take the standard deduction.
This deduction can include expenses like mortgage interest, insurance, utilities, and repairs, and is calculated based on “the percentage of your home devoted to business use,” according to the IRS.
Home Energy Tax Credits
For homeowners looking to make their primary home a little greener, either the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit or the Residential Energy Clean Property Credit can help offset the cost of energy efficiency improvements. Even better, these are credits, which means they directly lower your tax bill.
- Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit: 30% of the cost for qualified high-efficiency doors, window, insulation, air conditioners, water heaters, furnaces, heat pumps, etc. Maximum credit of $1,200 (heat pumps, biomass stoves and boilers have separate max of $2,000).
- Residential Clean Energy Credit: 30% of the cost for adding qualified solar/wind/geothermal power generation, solar water heaters, fuel cells, and battery storage.
What You Can’t Deduct:
- Mortgage Insurance (this is a change as of 2022)
- Title Insurance
- Closing Costs
- Loan Origination Points
- Down Payment
- Lost Earnest Money
- Homeowner’s Dues*
- Homeowner’s/Fire Insurance*
- Utilities*
- Depreciation*
- Domestic staff or services*
*Unless it’s related to your home-office deduction—contact your tax pro to see if it’s a qualified deduction for you.
Do you have a low-income, disabled or senior homeowner in your life? Check out this article on King County property tax relief.
Psst…every homeowner’s financial situation is different, so please consult with a tax professional regarding your individual tax liability.
We earn the trust and loyalty of our brokers and clients by doing real estate exceptionally well. The leader in our market, we deliver client-focused service in an authentic, collaborative, and transparent manner and with the unmatched knowledge and expertise that comes from decades of experience.
© Copyright 2024, Windermere Real Estate/Mercer Island.
Adapted from an article that originally appeared on the Windermere Blog, written by: Chad Basinger.
When is the Best Time to Buy or Sell a Home?
Market peaks, holidays, school, oh my! Once you’ve decided that you want to sell or buy a home, the when can be tricky to tackle. Many factors contribute to optimal timing. Scroll down for the pros and cons of selling or buying in each season.
While each season has its perks and challenges, your personal circumstances will be the most important consideration. Relocation, marriage, divorce, or other life changes may mean that it makes the most sense for you to move now regardless of market factors. If you have kids in school, it may be best to wait until after the school year to make your move.
If your timing is flexible, on the other hand, you’ll also want to consider things like the condition of your property—homes that need work or have challenges with location/layout may require a hot market (or serious lack of competing inventory) in order to sell. You’ll also want to analyze the micro-market in your neighborhood, including how many other listings are currently for sale. Check out our article on timing the market for some great tips on that.
Seasonal cycles are definitely worth considering. For sellers looking to get the maximum number of eyes on your home, it’s important to avoid listing during holiday weeks or inclement weather events like snow. Buyers might find it more difficult to purchase a home at the peak of the market when homes are selling like hotcakes. Below is a chart showing typical market activity based on a five-year average of pending sales.
When my clients ask for my advice on when to sell or buy, I typically analyze all of these factors along with seasonal pricing trends. Below are some of the pros and cons I tend to see for buyers and sellers in each season…
SELLING
BUYING
Pssst…I know decisions like this can feel overwhelming. Reach out any time for expert advice. I’m always happy to discuss your options and help you choose the best timing for your unique property, circumstances, and micro-market…
We earn the trust and loyalty of our brokers and clients by doing real estate exceptionally well. The leader in our market, we deliver client-focused service in an authentic, collaborative, and transparent manner and with the unmatched knowledge and expertise that comes from decades of experience.
© Copyright 2023, Windermere Real Estate/Mercer Island.
To Sell or to Rent? The Perks and Pitfalls of Being a Landlord
Analyzing whether to sell or rent your home is a BIG deal…and it deserves careful consideration. Ultimately, the right choice for you depends on your financial situation, goals, and personal preferences. Here is a quick run-down to help you decide:
Renting Out Your Home Might Make Sense If…
- You don’t need the funds from your current home to purchase another home
- You’re moving temporarily and planning to return to the area
- You think your home’s value will drastically increase within the next few years
- The rental market is especially hot in your area
- You have the time and know-how to screen tenants, manage rent/collections, and make home repairs (or would have enough cash flow to pay for third-party management)
- Rental income is part of your long-term investment strategy
Selling Your Home Might Make Sense If…
- You need to use the equity from your current home to purchase another home
- Rent wouldn’t generate enough cash flow to cover things like vacancies, maintenance, repairs, and landlord insurance in addition to the existing mortgage, taxes, and HOA dues
- You don’t want to take on the risks, time commitment, and challenges of being a landlord
- You’re uncomfortable with the landlord-tenant laws in your area
- A home sale would generate a large profit (and has been your primary residence for at least 2 out of the last 5 years so that you’re eligible for capital gains tax exemptions)
- You’re concerned a future recession might negatively impact your finances
Before reaching a conclusion, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the landlord-tenant-law specific to your state (and in some cases, separate relevant ordinances in the city and/or county that your property lies within). You should also do some market research to get a feel for price/condition of similar homes for rent and for sale in your neighborhood.
It probably makes sense to talk with a property management professional to clearly understand what you can expect to net as a landlord. You can also reach out to me any time for an accurate estimate of your home’s value should you decide to sell.
We earn the trust and loyalty of our brokers and clients by doing real estate exceptionally well. The leader in our market, we deliver client-focused service in an authentic, collaborative, and transparent manner and with the unmatched knowledge and expertise that comes from decades of experience.
© Copyright 2023, Windermere Real Estate / Mercer Island.
5 Home Improvements That Will Boost Your Property Value
A home is the largest investment most people will make in their lifetime, so when it comes time to sell, homeowners often wonder what they can do to get the most return on their investment. Many have the misconception that remodeling is the way to go, but that isn’t always the case. Rather than going all-in on upgrading your home, you should know which home improvements are worth it, and which ones aren’t.
We’ve sifted through the research and come up with a quick list of five home improvements that’ll help buyers fall in love with your home when it comes time to sell.
1. Add a little curb appeal
Curb appeal is critical. As the name suggests, it’s the first thing buyers see when pulling up to the front of any home so it needs to be in nearly pristine condition.
Landscaping can go a long way for a minimal upfront investment. Six rounds of fertilizer and weed control will set you back about $415, but when it comes time to sell, you’ll see a return on investment (ROI) of about $900 according to a 2023 survey by the National Association of Realtors.
Other improvements you can easily make to your curb appeal include:
- Pressure wash the exterior
- Liven up your front door with a fresh coat of paint
- Replace hardware such as doorknobs and knockers
- Install updated house numbers
- Make your walkways pop with new greenery or flowers
- Plant a succulent garden
- Update your porch lights
- Add a little charm with window flower boxes
- Stage your porch
2. Convert your HVAC to an electric heat pump
According to the 2023 Cost vs. Value Remodeling Report, replacing an oil or gas furnace with an electric heat pump is one of the hottest trends (and offers an unusually high ROI of 104%). Their earth-friendly efficiency is especially appealing to younger buyers and those concerned about climate change. Additionally, they offer summertime cooling, which is a big bonus in the PNW given our recent hot and smoky summers!
3. Refresh your kitchen
While major kitchen renovations are costly and typically have low ROI, a little elbow grease and modest budget can give you big bang for your buck (see our article on simple kitchen makeover ideas).
Here are some smaller updates to boost your home’s value:
- Clean
- Organize your pantry
- Use a little Murphy Oil Soap and hot water on all of your cabinets
- Polish cabinets with Howard Feed-In-Wax
- Tighten all hinges
- Clean grout and tiles
- Shine your sinks and hardware until you can see your face in it
- Deep clean your stove
- Give your kitchen a fresh coat of neutral paint
- Update lighting fixtures, and replace light bulbs
- Add new and trendy door hardware to your cabinets
- Consider replacing your countertops with a hard surface like quartz or quartzite
- Upgrade your appliances
4. Go green
Today’s younger generations are embracing eco-friendly living, and millennials are leading the pack. According to the National Association of Realtors’ 2022 Home Buyer and Seller Generational Trends Report, millennials make up the largest segment of buyers, holding strong at 43 percent of all buyers.
When it comes to attracting buyers who are willing to pay top dollar, going green makes sense. A Nielson study found that, of more than 30,000 millennials surveyed, 66 percent are willing to shell out more cash for conservation-conscious, sustainable products. Depending on where you live, consider installing solar panels, wind turbines, and eco-friendly water systems.
No matter where you live, attic insulation replacement and weather stripping are safe bets. Attic replacement costs can vary but typically have a good ROI. Weather stripping costs about $350 if you hire a professional, but you can easily DIY for a fraction of that cost.
5. Install hardwood floors
Installing or upgrading hardwood floors is pretty failsafe as most buyers love it. Ninety-nine percent of real estate agents agree that homes with hardwood floors are easier to sell, and 90 percent of agents say that they sell for a higher sale price, according to the National Wood Flooring Association. Similarly, a survey by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) found that wood flooring was among the top 10 home features most desired by home buyers.
When it comes time to sell, I will help you get the highest possible ROI for your home. I can connect you with tried-and-true contractors, suggest strategic upgrades, and help you develop the right pricing plan based on up-to-the-minute market analysis. Reach out for a complimentary home value consultation.
© Copyright 2023, Windermere Real Estate/Mercer Island.
Adapted from an article that originally appeared on the Windermere blog November 12, 2018. Written by: Sarah Stilo with HomeLight.
Cost vs. Value data ©2023 Zonda Media, a Delaware corporation. Complete data from the 2023 Cost vs. Value Report can be downloaded free at www.costvsvalue.com.
We earn the trust and loyalty of our brokers and clients by doing real estate exceptionally well. The leader in our market, we deliver client-focused service in an authentic, collaborative, and transparent manner and with the unmatched knowledge and expertise that comes from decades of experience.
7 Simple Ways to Boost Your Curb Appeal
When it comes time to sell your home, first impressions are crucial. Improving your curb appeal will catch buyers’ attention and go a long way toward selling quickly and for the best price. Here are seven affordable changes you can make that have a big impact…
1. Lush Up Your Lawn
A healthy, well-tended lawn will make your home look even more impressive when you start hosting open houses. Clean up all weeds, leaves, and debris, and consistently water to give it that fresh green look. Mow regularly, but not too short or you’ll damage the grass and invite weeds (experts recommend a minimum 3″ height for the Pacific NW). Consider a nitrate-rich fertilizer to keep the grass extra lush and green.
2. Refresh Your Door
Your front door is an opportunity to make a tasteful statement. Look at bold color choices that are within or slightly stretch your home’s exterior color palette. Take time to prepare the surface for a fresh coat of paint to make the color pop as much as possible and try stylish doorknob options that accentuate the aesthetic to give your door some added flair.
3. Update Your House Numbers
New and stylish house numbers are an easy, eye-catching addition to how your home is perceived by buyers. Look for styles that match with your exterior color palette and any exterior lighting fixtures.
4. Plant Colorfully
Adding colorful variety to your front yard will grab buyers’ attention. Align smaller plants like ground cover and flowers neatly within your flower beds, aiming for symmetry when possible. Use larger plants and trees to frame in your entryway or walkup. If your front yard doesn’t have flower beds, try adding hanging planters or window boxes. Because you’ll be competing against nearby listings, it’s landscaping projects like these that can make all the difference in your listing photos.
5. Upgrade Your Lighting
Adding landscape lighting will boost your curb appeal during nighttime, accentuate your shrubbery, and add a welcoming touch for potential buyers, lighting the way to your door.
While we’re on the subject, make sure your house lights are functional. Consider replacing dated fixtures with stylish new versions. Features like automatic dawn-to-dusk sensors will also come in handy if the home will be vacant while it’s listed.
6. Power Wash
Pressure washing your walkways and driveways can instantly improve your curb appeal. If buying a pressure washer is outside your budget, explore rental options from hardware stores in your area.
7. Add an Inviting Touch
Incorporating classic front porch elements like a porch swing, sitting bench, and other outdoor furniture gives a welcoming aura to your home’s entry and creates a sense of comfort for prospective buyers.
Adapted from an article that originally appeared on the Windermere blog April 19th, 2023. Written by: Sandy Dodge.
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© Copyright 2023, Windermere Real Estate/Mercer Island.
Buying a Home: A Start-to-Finish Guide
You want to buy a home.
Where do you begin?
When you’re ready to buy—or maybe just ready to start seriously thinking about it—there’s a lot you can do to prepare. Here is a checklist to help you get started…
1. Determine a Price Range
Step one is finding out your budget for your new home. The best way to do that is to meet with a mortgage professional who will review your income, assets, and credit history in order to pre-approve you for a loan. Not only does getting pre-approved allow you to narrow your home search, but it also makes your offer stronger when it comes time buy. If you don’t currently have a mortgage professional, I would be happy to recommend one.
You can also use my Home Monthly Payment Calculator to experiment with different principal amounts, interest rates, down payments, taxes, and insurance to get an idea of what you can afford. Keep in mind that these calculations are meant to be estimates—interest rates change weekly and will be determined by your credit score.
2. Make a Wish List
Imagine your ideal home. How many beds/baths does it have? How big is the backyard? How close is it to the local park? Use our Wish List to guide you in your search online and with me.
3. Start Your Searching
Once you know how much you can afford and what you’re looking for in a home, it’s time to start your search. My online search tool makes it easy to search for homes, keep track of your favorites and subscribe to property alerts when a fitting listing hits the market in your area. I can also send you potential homes and take you to tour them in person once you’re ready to get serious.
4. Know What to Avoid
As you prepare to buy, knowing what not to do can often be just as helpful as knowing what to do. By understanding the pitfalls buyers can fall into, you can identify the signs of these common buying mistakes ahead of time. Check out this article on buying homes that have been flipped, too.
You’ve found the home.
What now?
Once you’ve found the home you can see yourself living in, what’s next? There are many steps to go through before you can officially call yourself a homeowner. I will guide you through this process, but in the meantime, here’s a preview of what you can expect.
1. Negotiation
When making an offer on a home, I will negotiate on your behalf in order to attain the best terms for you. This can include negotiating the price, repair costs, timelines, and contingencies.
2. Purchase & Sale Agreement (Contract)
This is the legal contract you and the seller will enter into once your offer has been accepted by the seller. It outlines the terms and conditions of the sale and is signed by both parties.
3. Inspection
Once the Purchase and Sale Agreement is signed, a home inspector is hired to examine the home’s health, safety, and major mechanical systems. If any issues arise from an inspection, you may be able to renegotiate.
In a competitive offer situation where you wish to waive your inspection contingency in order to make your offer more appealing, I may advise you to conduct a “pre-inspection”—that is, an inspection that is conducted before you put an offer in on the house.
4. Financing
After your offer is accepted, the next step is to get final loan approval. During this process the lender will decide if they’re willing to approve your mortgage based on things like your creditworthiness and the title history and appraisal of the home you want to buy.
5. Title Report
This is a report for you and your lender detailing the history of the home you’re buying to ensure there are no legal barriers to purchasing it.
6. Escrow
Escrow is an impartial third-party process in which documents and funds are deposited by buyers, sellers, and lenders to facilitate the closing of a transaction. To learn more, read this short guide to understanding escrow.
7. Closing
During this final step of the home buying process, ownership is transferred from the seller to the buyer, closing costs are paid, and several legal documents are prepared and signed, all leading to the closing date. After closing is finalized and recorded and the funds are disbursed, the home is yours!
8. Moving Day!
Check out my printable Moving Checklist as you get ready for the big day.
© Copyright 2023, Windermere Real Estate/Mercer Island.
