Spring is yet to come but the Median Price for Single Family Homes for February 2015 is much higher compared to the previous months of February 2013 and February 2014. As always, there is wait-and-see attitude among Sellers who prefer to wait between Spring and Summer to sell their houses. However, as to the buyers, there is the feeling of excitement in shopping for houses, but also anxiety because of the expected influx of buyers with whom to compete.
May these figures from BayEast Association of Realtors be of help to those considering to sell or buy in the following areas:
1. City of Castro Valley, the Median Sales Price for February 2015 is $630,000 compared to $522,500 in February 2013.
2. City of Dublin, the Median Sales Price for February 2015 is $817,500 compared to $615,000 in February 2013.
3. Union City, the Median Sales Price for February 2015 is $645,000 compared to $495,000 in February 2013.
The inventory is low at this time and for Sellers wanting to prep their houses, some tips are enumerated in this link - http://gocb.me/norcal/realitycheck/15march/15March-rc-article.html -
- Maximize Curb Appeal: The old saying is true: you only get once chance to make a good first impression. Make sure that the outside of your home looks as appealing as possible. Water and mow the lawn, trim the trees, cut back overgrowth and plant colorful flowers in the front and back.
- Clear the Clutter: When it comes to staging, less is more. Having fewer things filling the rooms makes your home look both neater and roomier. It allows buyers to more easily visualize their own furnishings there. Be sure to store bicycles, gardening equipment, and children's and pet’s toys. Also move any cars from the driveway and along the curb in front of your home.
- Focus on the Living Areas First. A living room is an area in which potential buyers should be able to envision themselves entertaining friends or gathering with their family. With that in mind, consider making the area appear as large and functional as possible by removing any unnecessary furniture and decorations.
- Make Your Home Anonymous: Of course you’re proud of your family, but now is not the time to show their pictures and mementos. Stow away family photos, trophies, collectibles and any other personal items. You want buyers to imagine their families in the house, and that’s hard to do with constant reminders of your family. This process can also help you declutter.
- Make Necessary Repairs: Look at your house with a critical eye. The last thing you want potential buyers to see are chipped tiles in the bathroom, a faucet that doesn’t work, or burned out bulbs in light fixtures. All systems and appliances should be in good working condition.
- Consider Cosmetic Improvements: Simple, cosmetic touch-ups like painting, wallpapering, adding new light fixtures, and minor landscaping, can really help a home show better. If you paint, make sure it’s in a neutral color. You don't need to spend a lot of money on these projects to help make your home look its best but remember that if there are any problems these must be disclosed to potential buyers whether or not the problems have been remediated.
- Give Your Home a Good Cleaning: This can be the most cost-effective thing you do in prepping your home for sale. Potential buyers will want to inspect every part of your home, from the kitchen to the bathrooms to the garage. After removing any clutter, clean the inside of the house from top to bottom. Clean carpets, spotless kitchens and bathrooms, and tidy bedrooms can help make a positive impression.
- Add a Few Final Touches: When stagers are through decluttering a home they finish by adding a few carefully selected items for beauty - a painting in the living room, fresh flowers in the kitchen, an accent pillow for the sofa, or maybe an area rug for the bedroom.
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