Let's put the question to rest once and for all. "Yes! Yes!Yes! This is the greatest time to buy a house in the USA.".The best reason for most people is the historically low interest rates on residential property. The next best reason is the $8000 tax credit for first time home buyers or those who have not owned a home in the past three years. When you read that last sentence read GIFT in all caps. Rates will rise, the feds will take their gift away and the really good deals will be purchased by someone else. Home ownership in America, unlike life,liberty and the pursuit of happiness, is not a right. Believe me, I have met people who should not own a home. Home ownership is a privilege. And properly managed home ownership helps build wealth for the individual and stability for our neighborhoods and towns. According to the National Home Builders Association each home purchase represents, on average, $35,000 to the local economy through monies involved in the sale of the property, taxes generated, furnishings and home goods purchased, fences erected, lawns landscaped and...the family minivan in the garage. Home owners invest in their property. Most renters do not. If you already own your home and want or need to sell, what should your next move be?So for those of you in a position to buy...get moving. I think most men do well with a list so here goes...
Spring Punch List (Exterior)
1. Power wash the house, driveway and deck. Pay special attention to the north side of the house...remember the tree and the moss.
2. Put down fresh pine straw and make sure it is fluffy.
3. Plant flowers and shrubs...do not skimp on the size.
4. Trim existing shrubs.
5. Clean the windows inside and out, as well as the screens and window sills.
6. Purchase new front and side door mats.
7. Clean and polish door hardware.
8. Declutter the garage and storage rooms. Get everything off the floor by using pegboards and shelving. You will be thrilled with how special this makes you feel!
Spring Punch List (Interior)
1. Clean the carpet and upholstery.
2. Declutter the closets and cupboards (see#8 above).
3. Throw away old magazines, dead plants, etc.
4. Open the windows. Let the fresh air inside the house.
5. Flip your mattress (side to side/top to bottom)
6. Purchase new bed pillows.
7. Change all the filters.
8. Organize your clothes and throw out all wire hangars.
9. Clean your refrigerator, throwing away all items outdated or of unknown origin.
10. Clean your oven and dishwasher.
11. Dust the blades on all ceiling fans.
Keep in mind that when buyers visit your home they are looking for a reason to mark it off their list. We like short lists. So make certain your home looks and smells wonderful. Buyers will not be fooled by candles and artificial scents plugged into the wall. The sale of your house will be based on four basic facts: the price, the location, the condition and the terms. You control all of these except the location. So remember this is a price war and a beauty contest. In other words, go for cheap and pretty.
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