REAL ESTATE SPECIAL SECTION
take to give buyers the “wow” factor. Here
are tips to get the most out of your home
sale:
1. The first impression is the only
impression.
You’ve heard the saying “You’ll never get a
second chance at a first impression.” This
is not only true on your first date, but also
with your home’s first viewing! Check
out your home’s curb appeal. Do dead
bushes need to be removed? Old holiday
decorations need to be put away? Try to
view your house as if you were seeing it
for the first time. Maybe an exterior power
wash or fresh coat of paint on your front
door would make buyers want to come
inside.
2. Make your interior inviting.
S
pring is in the air, which means buyers and sellers of all
kinds are getting ready to find the home of their dreams.
Buying or selling a home isn’t as simple as it seems on
television and can be quite an arduous process. With the
right tools and tips, however, you can take on the housing market
like a pro.
According to Zillow, more than half of the largest housing
markets across the country have regained the value lost from the
market collapse over a decade ago. Unfortunately, it also reports
that Pittsburgh is one market that has gained the least value since
2011, rising only 56 percent. But don’t let that discourage you.
The city has gained several accolades the past few years including
“#6 Best City for First-Time Home Buyers” by Business Insider,
“#7 Cities Where Millennials Are Moving” by Time and “#11
Most Affordable City” by Forbes.
Along with several large companies already headquartered in
Pittsburgh, there is no sign of the corporate real estate market
slowing. The technology industry continues to build within
the city, and plans for specialty medical facilities and a growing
number of community hospitals are already in the works.
With the promise of new jobs in these industries, we’ve seen
millennials sticking around the city or moving back home after
graduation in the hopes of settling here. In the past five years,
the number of millennial residents has increased 18 percent,
according to a CBRE report. With the growing number of
millennials moving into rentals, we also see families in search
of their first home or their forever home, and baby boomers
downsizing—making the Pittsburgh housing market ready for
buyers and sellers of all kinds! So, take advantage of the warmer
air approaching and get ready for those eager to explore the
market for their next home.
PREPARING TO SELL IN 2018?
Selling your home can be an emotional process. Many sellers
want their home to go to buyers who can create new memories
in their beloved home, but often overlook the steps they need to
26
724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
❘
icmags.com
Although you may adore bold or bright
colors adorning your walls, your buyers
may not. Choose freshly painted, neutral
colors and remove clutter from the walls. While you are
decluttering, start packing away items that aren’t used every
day such as trinkets, photos and personalized art. This will
allow buyers to imagine their own touches added to the
room.
3. Create more space, or at least the illusion of it.
Short on space? No problem! Create the illusion of space
by storing away (off-site, if possible) unnecessary items,
giving cabinets, closets and storage spaces a spacious look.
Or, make moving easier by donating or selling these items!
4. Update only to increase value.
Work with your real estate agent on recommendations for
simple changes that can add value to or create appeal for
your home. This can be as simple as adding a backsplash in
the kitchen, or refreshing landscaping to add curb appeal. A
small upgrade may be just what you need to close a sale.
5. Make sure the price is right.
You won’t need to call on Drew Carey, but you should work
with your real estate agent to figure out comparable home
prices in your area, pricing trends and inventory available,
and price your home accordingly. A fair market price will
attract buyers interested in making your home their dream
home.
PREPARING TO BUY IN 2018?
Whether it’s saving for your first home, searching for your
dream home, or downsizing to your forever home, buying a
house is an exciting and exhausting experience. Putting in the
extra effort could be the difference you need to nail the home you
want.
Continued on page 28 >