Special Real Estate Section HOME Sweet HOME
buyers. Work with a local agent to determine a competitive price based on recent comparable sales.
• Highlight key suburban draws. In your marketing, emphasize features like good schools, spaciousness, community amenities, and recent updates.
• 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 cinnamon-
or 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 roof— 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 long-term 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.
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