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Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring a Contractor
Hiring a contractor for a home improvement project may seem straightforward, but it actually involves several important considerations. Whether you find someone online, go with a referral, or work with a friend who has expertise, it’s essential to avoid the costly mistakes listed below.
1. Not doing your research
Just because you found a general contractor who seems nice and knowledgeable doesn’t mean they’re the best fit. While it can be tempting to go with the first one you like, conducting thorough research can make a significant difference. Check out the Better Business Bureau Profiles, which include contractor reviews, star ratings, complaints, photos, and videos. Additionally, you’ll be able to see how many years the business has been in operation.
We suggest comparing the services, quotes, qualifications, skills, reputations, and communication styles of your top contractors. If you’re planning to do a major home renovation, it’s a good idea to consult with at least five general contractors in person. While each meeting takes time, it gives you a chance to learn about each one, ask questions, and realize what you want and don’t want in a contractor. Next, get bids from at least three of those five in order to get a sense of what the project will cost.
2. Making assumptions
Sometimes people assume that all contractors are licensed and insured. That’s actually not the case. There are many who aren’t. Before you sign a thing, make sure your general contractor is licensed and insured. Although hiring someone who isn’t may save you money, if something goes wrong, any damage or misstep becomes your responsibility as the homeowner. You could be held liable or sued for an accident on the job site. As the Better Business Bureau explains, across different states and regions, “general contractors are required to maintain certain licenses, permits and certifications. For some specialized trades, this can extend to certifications to handle hazardous materials like mold, asbestos or waste products. Anyone you work with should be up to date on their insurance and certifications and secure the necessary work permits before hammers fly.”
You also don’t want to assume that your home improvement project is the only one that your contractor will be working on. Ask how many projects they will be working on at the same time as yours. If they have many simultaneous projects, their team needs to be big enough to handle it. Otherwise, your project may get delayed or put on the back burner.
3. Not asking the right questions
It’s important to ask what the contractor’s role will specifically be during this project. This will give you more insight into how you’ll work with them. Perhaps they will be focused on budgeting or scheduling. Or, they may be overseeing day-to-day tasks. Oftentimes, when someone manages the sub-contractors who are on the job, the project timeline tends to stay on schedule. Asking about their role helps you get a sense of whether or not it will be well organized with clear points of contact. You should be able to ask questions at any point, and you’ll want to know that they’re doing everything possible to ensure everything runs smoothly.
If any subcontractors are needed, ask how much work with be subcontracted. Also, ask for information about the subcontractors.
Asking about the payment schedule is also a good idea. Typically, labor and material costs are fixed. However, there’s usually room to negotiate the payment schedule. If you want to incentivize on-time, quality work, you could propose paying specific percentages of the project at certain completion points.
4. Being unclear about your budget or timeline
If a contractor is telling you they will be done in half the time or for half the cost compared to others, it’s probably too good to be true. And, if you’re unclear about your budget or timeline then that can cause major issues for both parties. If your contractor has worked on a home that’s similar to yours and has done this type of project many times, they should have an accurate timeline and budget. Of course, the timeline and budget can vary with different options and specifications, or if supply issues arise. But it’s important to establish clear estimates and expectations upfront.
5. Not getting referrals or skipping client reviews
Even if you have a good feeling about a contractor and have made sure they are licensed and insured, do your due diligence by asking for client referrals. This will give you a good sense of how they have worked on past projects and what it’s like to work with them. In addition, reading reviews online can also be beneficial. You may see an average number of review stars and stop there. But reading client reviews can give you a better sense of different people’s experiences. The last thing you want is to go into it blindly and then regret your decision.
6. Not thoroughly reviewing your agreement
Even if you’re working with a friend who happens to be a contractor, always have a written agreement. It’s essential on any home remodel. This contract can be referred back to if any questions or misunderstandings come up along the way. Deadlines, scope of work, cost of materials, warranties, payment terms. and more are always listed. When the home improvement project is completed, hold onto your contract. You’ll also want to save any relevant receipts, plans, or paperwork. That way, you can reference them in case there are any disputes or questions down the road.
Be sure to read everything before you sign it and make sure you fully understand it. The contract should state who will obtain any required building permits and who is responsible for the clean up. If your contractor has made any verbal promises, you’ll also want them included in the contract. If it is incomplete, don’t sign it. Also, you’ll want to make sure the contract includes a target completion date. Sure, there’s a good chance the project may be extended, but it’s still helpful to set a goal and put it in writing.
7. Paying without a paper trail
A big red flag that you’ll definitely want to avoid is a contractor who says they only accept cash and they don’t give receipts. Just like having a contract to refer back to is crucial, so is an official transaction history. Paying in cash means there’s no paper trail. Checks or credit cards should be used to track project expenses. This can be used for your taxes, any contract disputes, and even fraud investigations. You should always get a receipt for your payment. Lastly, if a contractor says they need to be paid in full up front, that leaves you with no guarantee the work will be completed. We suggest a payment plan that enables you to review the work while it’s being done, and when the job is completed.
We hope this information has helped you frame your approach. If you’re working with a Windermere agent, they will have a great list of recommended, local contractors. We’re always happy to help clients in any way we can, and we wish you the best of luck on your home improvement projects.
Home Improvement Tips & Hacks That Work
Being a homeowner comes with many projects, maintenance tasks, and chores. Luckily, we’ve compiled some helpful home improvement hacks and tips. Discover which projects make the most financial sense and learn some cleaning hacks to accomplish more in less time.
Consider your return on investment
Some home improvement projects are worth the expense because they’ll result in a higher return on investment. Check out these home improvement projects that add value to your home instantly. Consider converting your HVAC system from gas to electric (with the expertise of a professional). Or, here in the Pacific Northwest, siding replacement can be beneficial to protect your home against the wet weather we face much of the year.
Two types of doors in your home also have a high return on investment: your entry door and garage door. Check out this article for more detailed information about deciding if a new garage door is right for you. In addition, a new front door can add tremendously to a home’s curb appeal. In particular, replacing a wood door with a steel door can quickly add value to your home. Steel doors offer a sleek, modern style as well as long-term value for their durability.
Monitor for issues and make needed repairs ASAP
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. In homeownership, this underscores the greatest tip of all: monitor the house. These are home repairs you should not put off. Watch out for signs of water damage, electrical issues, pests, or a gas leak. Check your roof for leaks or missing shingles, and keep all gutters clear. If you find your lights flickering or outlets feeling warm (especially if it’s an older home) call a professional electrician to examine it. Similarly, any signs of rodents or pests should be handled immediately and, if required, professionally. If your home runs appliances on natural gas and the tell-tale rotten-egg smell begins, exit the home immediately and contact your gas company. The smell could mean there is a gas leak. Additionally, this maintenance checklist is also handy to consult. Get in the habit of inspecting and repairing home features in the fall and spring to prevent large, expensive repairs down the road.
Buy gently-used home décor
If you’re looking to decorate your home with statement pieces or to add accents, consider purchasing them secondhand. Often, thrift stores, garage sales, and online marketplaces offer home items at a discounted rate. This might make sense for seasonal décor for the holidays or furniture for children that they will quickly outgrow. There is also a growing movement to upcycle furniture. It’s amazing what a coat of paint, elbow grease, and new hardware can do, giving a desk or dresser a whole new look.
Use tech to visualize a space
Thanks to augmented reality, there are many ways to visualize a space before you make any home improvements. You scan a room with your phone’s camera. Then, you digitally move items around to play with the space (and save your back!). Many apps let you change wall colors and shop for furniture. Here are some popular home furniture layout apps. If you want to compare interior design apps, here’s a comprehensive guide that compares the pros and cons of over 25 interior design apps.
Now that we’ve reviewed some of the biggest home improvement tips, let’s examine some easy cleaning hacks to make your home sparkle.
Employ the power of decluttering
Often overlooked in the home-cleaning process, decluttering can naturally make a room appear cleaner. There are also other benefits to decluttering. First and foremost, you will have fewer items to clean, and then it will be easier to find items when you need them. Also, some people find it helps them focus and reduces anxiety caused by visual clutter.
While it can feel overwhelming before you begin, starting with just one room can simplify the process. Or, get one small box for donations and another for keepsakes to store, and simply stop when you’ve filled those two boxes. It’s amazing what you can accomplish when you have a focused approach. If you have many special mementos that fill tabletops and shelves, consider picking a handful of them to display and then rotating through them every few months. You’ll appreciate that select group even more when they aren’t overcrowded. The same concept applies to kids’ artwork if that’s something you have a lot of in your home. Also, check out these kid art displays and storage ideas.
Speed-clean with the best of them
A decluttered space will also allow you to benefit from speed cleaning. Do you have guests coming over but don’t have the bandwidth to clean the entire house? Check out some of the best ways to clean high-traffic areas in an hour or less. By deliberately focusing on areas where people congregate, such as the kitchen, living room, and guest bathroom, you will be ready for your guests in no time. This speed cleaning video also showcases how to quickly get your home ready for visitors. Set a timer for yourself, put on some fun music, and get moving.
Discover new uses for baking soda and vinegar
Baking soda and vinegar are two highly used, natural cleaning products that work great for many surfaces. Place baking soda on a sponge and gently scrub away dirt and grime around the kitchen. It can even be used to help absorb oil stains on a carpet. For mineral buildup, take a bag of vinegar, wrap it around your showerhead, and secure it in place overnight. In the morning, all that buildup will be gone. Baking soda and/or vinegar can also be used to clean tough grime or burnt food on pots and pans.
Want even more ideas? Try these additional cleaning hacks.
Deodorize your pet-filled home
One of the first things guests notice in a home is the smell. If you have furry loved ones, you can take steps to ensure their scent isn’t the first thing they encounter.
- Keep your pet(s) groomed to prevent excess shedding.
- Invest in a good hand-held vacuum and/or robot vacuum to make upkeep a breeze.
- Rub dryer sheets against your baseboards to pick up dirt and pet hair, and to prevent future build-up.
- Keep pet food and litter boxes out of the main living spaces.
- Open windows to air out your home.
- Light one of your favorite scented candles.
We hope these home improvement projects and cleaning hacks help you maintain and enhance your home so you can spend more time enjoying it today, and for years to come.
Home Improvement Projects That Add Value
As summer approaches and the days are sunnier, you may be looking at your home in a new light. What appeared to be great in winter now seems tired and in need of refurbishing. If you are contemplating starting home improvement projects that add value, it might be helpful to know what renovations return the most at resale. Before spending thousands of dollars, consider the West Coast’s average recoup values. Below are the top four renovations that yield a high return on your investment for 2023.
Electric HVAC System Conversion: 104.8% Cost Recouped
While not the most exciting project, converting your HVAC system from gas to electric adds value to your home. Appliances powered by natural gas have been banned or restricted in new buildings by several major cities, including Seattle, to reduce pollution and climate change. So if you decide to make the change, you will be ahead of the curve.
Regardless, before making a decision, take time to consider all the pros and cons. Overall, moving away from natural gas is safer. Without gas, there isn’t a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. And electric HVAC systems tend to be cheaper than gas to install and run more quietly. Yet, keeping an electric heater running in winter tends to cost more. If you do decide to make the change, know that it’s a complicated process and not a DIY project. It’s best to hire a professional for this home improvement project because it impacts the wiring and connectivity of your whole home.
Siding Replacement: 98.3% Cost Recouped
Siding replacement is a home improvement project that can make your life easier in the long run. Vinyl siding is very low maintenance, doesn’t need painting, and is low cost compared to other types of siding. Thanks to the durability of vinyl siding, you don’t have to worry about chipped paint, and dirt easily washes off. It also tends to last decades, with time frames varying depending on the weather.
To further consider this specific project, check out the pros and cons of vinyl siding. In general, it’s popular and will give your home a great new look. It’s even been proven to better insulate homes and decrease energy costs. If you plan on selling your home in the near future, pick a vinyl siding color that boosts your home’s curb appeal.
Garage Door Replacement: 96.8% Cost Recouped
Garage doors are constantly being used multiple times a day and are destined to experience wear and tear. Additionally, the outside of the garage door is continuously being exposed to the elements. Whether you want something that works better or are interested in a technology upgrade, or need to replace rotting wood, replacing your garage door is a worthwhile investment. That said, it’s not necessarily as simple as you might think. So, to get started, consider these top questions to ask yourself regarding material, whether or not to hire a professional and more.
Entry Door Replacement: 88.7% Cost Recouped
Coming in fourth on the list is replacing your front door with steel. While wood doors are lovely and offer a classic style and quality, they aren’t truly timeless. Installing a new steel entry door delivers long-lasting beauty with increased durability. A steel door is also more energy efficient and provides greater security. A brand-new steel door is a solid investment, especially if your front door is old and tired, and there are many steel door options to consider.
Hopefully, this list sparks some ideas. As you evaluate the best home improvement projects that add value and are right for you, take time to also consider if you need to address any urgent home repairs as well. And, if you’re looking for some great gadgets to increase your home’s cool factor, this list has fun ideas.
8 Tips When Preparing to Sell
Preparing to sell your home can feel overwhelming, so we’ve compiled some useful bits of advice to make sure you’re on your way to a job well done. From pricing to staging, there are many factors to keep in mind. We’re here to make the selling process smoother and more successful. Read on to gain helpful tips you can use today.
1. Determine your moving timeline
Begin the home selling process by examining your personal timeline. Are the dates flexible or are you on a set schedule? Knowing the answer to these questions will help you make the right decisions regarding the repairs and home projects you should complete. Additionally, it’s important to establish clear expectations with everyone involved, including your local listing agent.
2. Consult with a listing agent when preparing to sell
A knowledgeable listing agent will guide you through the process of selling your home. They will provide you with up-to-date information including local market trends so you can make well-informed decisions. In addition to listing the home, the agent will show the property and coordinate all aspects of the real estate transaction. It’s important to take your time and find someone you work well with and trust.
3. Get a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA)
A real estate agent will be able to conduct a Comparative Market Analysis or CMA. A CMA is a detailed report that compares your property to similar listings in the area. It allows the agent to examine market trends and determine an appropriate list price base on other nearby homes. It will also help you determine if any potential upgrades or remodels will be worthwhile.
4. Complete upgrades with a high return on investment (if it makes financial sense)
After consulting with a listing agent and looking at a Comparative Market Analysis, you’ll want to consider completing home upgrades with a high return on investment. Take into account your moving timeline and the risk/reward of doing certain upgrades. Your local real estate guide will be able to discuss all options with you to see if the projects are worthwhile.
5. Conduct a pre-inspection when preparing to sell
Did you know a seller can conduct a pre-inspection before listing the home? This inspection will identify any repairs or problems that may need to be addressed before selling. Also, providing a buyer with a pre-inspection can create a sense of trust. Being upfront about the condition of the home demonstrates transparency.
6. Identify and make necessary repairs
After consulting with a listing agent, and examining the CMA and pre-inspection, it is time to get to work. Ensure the home has all major repairs completed before listing and showing it. Repair all roof leaks or missing shingles, and ensure there are no plumbing or gas leaks. Check that the home’s foundation is solid and repair any electrical issues. Finally, make sure all pest control measures have been completed prior to listing. If there are any potential red flags regarding your property, this is the time to address those issues.
7. Consider the Windermere Ready Loan Program
If making repairs and preparing the property for selling seems daunting due to the upfront expenses, consider the Windermere Ready Loan program. This program offers up to $50,000 in expenses incurred. It is a six-month loan with no payments due during that time. It is then paid off in one lump sum once the property is sold. Many home sellers and their agents have reported success, saying that the program helped them sell their homes for more and in less time.
8. Stage your home when preparing to sell
According to Forbes, staged homes sell 87% faster than non-staged homes. Staging allows prospective buyers to easily imagine themselves in your home. It presents homes in an enticing way. And, the majority of buyers look at homes online first, so excellent photos of well-staged spaces can make a huge difference in the number and types of offers you receive.
Listing and selling a home is a labor-intensive process that requires a team effort. Our local Windermere experts are here to help you sell your home efficiently and successfully.
Our Fall Home Maintenance Checklist
Vibrant colors and gourds galore – autumn in the Pacific Northwest is a beautiful season, and it’s also an important time to prepare your home for colder weather. From cleaning gutters to weatherproofing, fall home maintenance is a must in our region. Otherwise, you could be facing some costly consequences down the road. Here’s our handy checklist to ensure your home is ready.
Clean gutters and chimneys
Without regular maintenance, your home’s gutters can get so clogged they can cause damage and leaks. So, it’s important to stay on top of this seasonal task. In fact, clogged gutters are one of the top home repairs you should never put off. Clear out all debris including leaves and pine needles, and then test them by flushing them out with the hose. Additionally, make sure the downspouts drain away from the house or into your street. You never want any water to pool back towards your home’s foundation.
When it’s time to cozy up to your fireplace, you definitely don’t want to be dealing with cracks and soot. They can become fire hazards. So take time to check and clean your chimney.
Do some HVAC fall maintenance
In addition to your regular annual HVAC maintenance, do your own little inspection to ensure it is ready for colder weather. Power it off, wait for the blower to stop, and then vacuum out all of the vents. Next, replace the air filters, which should be changed every three to six months (timing depends on their thickness). Finally, turn it back on and make sure the intake vent is sucking in the air as it should be, and that you feel the warm air. If anything seems off, call a local HVAC professional.
Make sure your house is well sealed
A well-sealed home will prevent drafts and high utility bills. Weatherproof entry points to the outdoors including your garage, doors, windows, and exterior siding. If you see a gap, install new or larger seals. If the gap is large, use backer rod, a foam tubing. Then you’ll need to apply the caulking over that. A weather strip works well if you notice a gap with your garage door. When it comes to your windows, caulking, flashing, and additional sealing may be needed.
Your home’s siding should be weatherproofed too. Repair any cracked paint and look for any cracked caulking. If needed, remove cracked caulking with a razor blade and replace it with a new bead of exterior-specific caulk. The last thing you want is for the elements or pests to get in and damage your home.
Prevent pests
Rodents love finding warm places when it gets cold, and they can really damage your property. So, do all you can to prevent them from moving into your attic, crawl space, or basement. Prune back any branches that may hang onto your roof. Don’t store anything in your crawl space since that serves as an invitation for critters to burrow there. Check your attic regularly and keep it as clean and tidy as possible. If you hear scuttling overhead or find droppings anywhere, take immediate action.
Prepare your yard
You may have already thought about how the time is nearing to put away your lawn furniture, but have you also thought about storing your lawn tools, hoses, and your grill? And, are the tools you will need ready to go?
Fall is also the time to prune, clear out garden beds, fertilize, and reseed. And, if you have a green thumb, here’s a helpful fall gardening checklist for Zone 8b, complete with maintenance tips through fall into winter.
8 Home Repairs You Should Not Put Off
As a homeowner, knowing what repairs deserve immediate attention isn’t always easy. Determining whether a crack in the wall is a simple paint job or an indication of something bigger requires both time and effort. But addressing certain repairs promptly can save you money and reduce your stress in the long term. To help you know when it’s time to contact an expert, we’ve put together a list of eight home repairs that should not be put off.
1. Missing Shingles
Keeping the roof in great condition is key to a happy and healthy home. Consequently, your roof deserves extra care and attention. After intense stormy weather, check for missing shingles. (But only if you can do so safely with a ladder!) While having one or two missing shingles doesn’t sound serious, these small openings can lead to much more costly problems in the future such as water damage and roof sagging.
2. Roof Leaks
If you see water leaks in your ceiling or attic, this is a clear sign that your roof needs repairs. While a good roof can last a long time, there are still areas in a roof that are more susceptible to rain including skylights and chimneys. In general, addressing roof leaks promptly is essential. Delays can lead to more complex and expensive issues such as water damage, mold, and structural problems.
3. Plumbing Leaks
Pipes run throughout your home carrying water to your kitchen, laundry nook, and bathrooms. But these high-use areas are also places where water can drip and cause trouble. Check under your sinks at least once a year to monitor for leaks. Also, keep watch for peeling paint, water stains, and damaged flooring. If you see any of these signs, call a plumber at once to avoid more serious issues such as black mold or extensive structural repairs.
4. Clogged Gutters
While gutters aren’t necessarily chic or cool, they are still an essential part of your home. By drawing rain away from your house, they play a key role in keeping your home dry and happy. Clogged gutters allow water to pool and can cause wood rot and substantial damage to the foundation. Make sure your gutters are clear with routine cleaning.
5. Foundation Cracks
A solid foundation defines the health and longevity of your home. As your home ages, small cracks can develop over time. It’s best to address these cracks right away before they become larger and spread. Ignoring foundation fissures can lead to exponentially more costly repairs in the long term. When it comes to the foundation, do your home and your pocketbook a favor by taking action.
6. Gas Leaks
When you have appliances powered by natural gas, it’s vital to be vigilant about potential leaks. If you detect an unmistakable rotten egg smell, most likely it’s the odorant added to natural gas to help identify leaks. As soon as you smell something, contact your gas company and leave your home. If not dealt with, a gas leak can lead to a fire or even an explosion. Only re-enter your house when the gas company says it’s safe.
7. Electrical Issues
Using devices that require electricity is a big part of modern life. In many homes, this can lead to overtaxing the electric system. This is especially the case in older homes with antiquated wiring that can’t handle multiple devices and overburdened power strips. If you notice flickering lights, strange sizzling sounds, warm or hot outlets, or circuit breakers that trip, call an electrician to prevent a fire. According to Electrical Safety Foundation International, more than 51,000 electrical fires happen each year in the U.S.
8. Pest Control
If you find any uninvited critters living in your home, don’t let them get too comfortable. In Kitsap County, two of the most common pests are the Norway rat and the house mouse. Both have a reputation for chewing wiring, damaging structures, eating food, and carrying diseases. The Washington State Department of Health has tips for how to deal with rodents, but it may be easier to call a professional pest control company.
In addition, if you’re thinking of selling your home in the near future, some repairs can also increase your home’s value such as having a new roof. This is something else to keep in mind as you consider the above list of eight home repairs.
Want to Sell Your Home? Here Are 5 Things to Consider
Selling your home is a big decision and it involves a lot of moving parts. Luckily, we have compiled a list of things to consider, whether you want to sell in three months or three years.
1. Timeline
Create a desired timeline involving the selling of your current home and the purchasing of your next home. While properties can’t always close in record time or produce the exact results you’re hoping for, it helps to at least begin with a general idea with extra time built in for adjustments to be made (when possible). Whether you’re ready for more space or to downsize, you’ll save time and manage expectations if you’re able to plan out what you think needs to be done in advance. Check out this helpful guide to selling your home.
2. Renovation and Curb Appeal
What’s that old saying that our parents told us? Always leave the place better than you found it. Selling a house is no exception. Get ahead of the game by considering areas of your home that could use renovations, upgrades, or a deep clean. These changes can increase your home’s value, allowing you to sell your home for top dollar. Don’t forget the exterior either! The outside of your house will be a home buyer’s first impression, so you want to do whatever you can to increase its curb appeal.
3. Costs
Yes, even selling your house comes with fees. Start putting together an estimate of how much it will potentially cost so that you’re prepared and know what to expect. For more information, here are 10 costs associated with selling your home.
4. Your Advocate
Selling your home can often feel overwhelming, which is why you want an attentive agent who understands your needs and will act as your advocate, local expert, and guide. This person will be working closely with you, so finding the right fit will make the process much easier. Treat this almost like an interview. Ask them about their sales history, how up to date they are on the local real estate market, and if they have a list of preferred local vendors. Another key aspect to consider: their communication style. You want to sell your home with someone who fits with your personality and is responsive, dependable, and helpful.
5. Staging
Taking the time to strategically showcase each area of your home will help buyers imagine themselves living there. And, staged homes sell 87% faster and for 17% more on average than non-staged homes. Additionally, the Windermere Ready program is a great option to consider. You’ll have the knowledge and guidance of one of our local agents, and the option of up to $50,000 in assistance for expenses incurred in preparing to list your home.
Looking for more information or want to discuss your specific needs? Contact one of our agents. They’re happy to assist and can provide a free market analysis so you can see what your home is worth.
Selling Your Home is Now Easier: Windermere Invests to Impress
When it comes to selling your home, first impressions are everything. We believe this so strongly that we created the Windermere Ready program. With concierge-level service, our program prepares your home for the market with guidance from a local expert as well as financial assistance, if needed.
Sell For More in Less Time
On average, sellers who make necessary repairs and upgrades before selling generally sell their home for more and in less time. Of course, every home is unique, but preparation is often the key to success.
Our Windermere Ready program provides:
- One-on-one consultation
- A personalized plan
- High impact updates
- Professional staging
We all know that buyers prefer stylish, turnkey homes. But it can be challenging to know which repairs and upgrades will get the biggest return. That’s why we offer an individualized approach. One of our local real estate experts will work with you to determine what needs to be done with your timeline and needs in mind.
After they identify your top home improvement priorities, they will develop a plan of action. They will connect you with preferred local service providers, assist with a work schedule, and make any necessary arrangements. Working with a highly skilled professional also means your home will be correctly priced so you’ll avoid the dangers of an overpriced home.
Update Your Home to Make an Impact
Sometimes the smallest updates can make the biggest impact on a buyer. A home with real curb appeal, a fresh coat of paint, and a sparkling clean interior can exude warmth and charm. Even something small yet noticeable like a stylish light fixture or updated kitchen cabinet hardware can really enhance a house and make it feel like a home.
Here are some of the items that we focus on:
- Interior and Exterior Painting
- Window Washing
- Landscaping
- Carpet Cleaning/Replacement
- Floor Repair/Refinishing
- Fixture Repair or Replacement
- Cosmetic Updates
- Decluttering
- Professional Deep Cleaning
Stage Your Home to Create the Best Experience
In addition to making needed repairs and updates, we highly recommend staging your home. With the help of professional stagers, you can boost your bottom line. A staged home allows buyers to easily see themselves living there. Our expert stagers know how to use light, color, texture, and space to effectively highlight the best features of each room. According to Forbes, staged homes sell 87% faster and for 17% more than non-staged homes.
We’re Invested in Your Success, Literally
If needed, we can offer up to $50,000 to assist with expenses incurred, and there’s no upfront cost to you. The loan term is six months and no monthly payments are due during that time. The loan is paid off in one lump sum when the collateral property is sold. If you’d like more information about our Windermere Ready Loan, please contact us today.
