Special Real Estate Section HOME Sweet HOME
• Home inspections are crucial. Especially for older homes, a thorough inspection can save you from unexpected major repair costs.
TIPS FOR BUYING & SELLING IN THE FALL
Buying and selling a home in the fall has some unique advantages, but it also requires smart strategy. Here’ s a breakdown of the best tips for both buyers and sellers in the autumn real estate market.
Tips for Home Sellers in the Fall
1. Stage for the Season
• Use warm, neutral decor like cozy throws, pumpkins, and fall foliage to create an inviting atmosphere.
2. Maintain Great Curb Appeal
• Keep leaves raked, gutters clean, and lawns tidy. Add a fall wreath or potted mums to the front porch.
3. Make Your Home Cozy
• Use warm lighting, bake something aromatic for showings( like cinnamonor apple-scented treats), and highlight features like a fireplace.
4. Price it Right
• Buyers in the fall are serious and expect fair value. A home priced too high might sit until winter.
5. Make the Home Feel Inviting Against the Weather
• Showcase new windows, insulation, furnace, or other upgrades— buyers are thinking about heating bills.
Tips for Homebuyers in the Fall
1. Take Advantage of Less Competition
• Fall typically sees fewer buyers than spring and summer, so you’ re less likely to face bidding wars. Sellers may be more motivated to close before the holidays or the year’ s end.
2. Get Pre-Approved
• With fewer listings, being financially ready helps you act quickly when you find the right home.
3. Inspect Carefully
• Check HVAC systems, insulation, gutters and roofs— fall weather can reveal issues like poor drainage or drafty windows.
• Pay attention to how much natural light the home gets, since days are shorter in the fall and winter.
4. Look for Year-End Tax Breaks
• Buying before the end of the year may help you take advantage of mortgage interest, property taxes, and other deductions.
5. Check Cold-Weather Readiness
• Inspect the heating system, insulation, windows, and roof— these are key in colder months and can signal longterm energy costs.
THE APPEAL OF PATIO HOMES
Patio homes, also known as carriage homes or garden homes, have been gaining popularity among both first-time homebuyers and empty nesters for the growing appeal of single-story, lowmaintenance living.
There are major differences between owning a single-family home and a patio home, but those differences could be exactly what you’ re looking for. Whether seeking to downsize or to purchase your first home, it’ s helpful to know what makes patio homes so attractive to buyers. Single-family homes provide owners with a sense of privacy— no shared walls, floors, or yards. Patio homes have some similarities to condos and townhomes, including a shared wall and lawn, but differ slightly. Townhomes are typically two to three stories, condos may be one to two, but patio homes aim for all amenities to be on one floor, although some may include a loft.
This appeals to those looking for a home with a smaller footprint and without stairs. Patio homes also offer the sense of a close-knit community of people through shared lawns, amenities, and close living quarters.
But the biggest difference isn’ t what’ s on the inside, but what’ s on the outside. Townhome and condo owners typically only own the interior of the housing unit, while patio home ownership also includes the lot that the property sits on. Although residents own their land, many communities have a homeowner association, or HOA, that they contribute to for lawn care, maintenance and other services.
If you’ re looking for low-maintenance living but a strong sense of community, a patio home might be for you.
MAKE YOUR HOME SPARKLE!
If you’ re ready to sell your home, be sure the items below are checked off your list before you list!
• Clean up the front of your home and add plants or flowers for curb appeal. You only get one first impression!
• Wash down the exterior of your home( everything from siding to sidewalks) with a power washer or a hose attachment sprayer.
• Clear out gutters and wash windows, allowing the sunlight to brighten your home.
• Update or add house numbers to your home and make sure they are visible from the curb.
• A fresh, neutral coat of paint and a new welcome mat can dress up a front door for buyers.
• Rooms should have fresh paint in neutral colors to appeal to a wide range of buyers.
• Allow as much natural light in as possible.
• Reposition furniture to allow for the best use of space, making rooms feel open.
• Remove photographs of family, personal sayings, and artwork to allow potential buyers to imagine themselves living in each room.
• Re-caulk tubs, showers, and sinks.
• Declutter cabinets, refrigerator, and pantry to allow for a roomy look.
• Remove off-season clothing from your closets to show more space.
• Clear out garage space to leave extra room for cars.
• Professionally clean carpets and flooring( and try to touch up before each showing).
• Wipe down mirrors, shelves and sinks, and close your toilet lid.
• Wipe down countertops and put away all small appliances to show adequate counter space.
• Hide garbage cans and be sure to empty them before a showing.
• Add natural scents with fresh flowers throughout the house, or bake a batch of cookies for a sweet aroma. n
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