Category Archives: Tips & Advice

Must-fix items when looking to sell your home

Building on the theme from last month, let’s consider this the time to do some prep before a Spring listing. This is the most popular time to sell a home and you want yours to stand out. Take a look at some nuggets from this article about some of those “must fix” items.

  1. The mystery switches — Don’t know what that switch goes to? Time to find out. Hope you don’t find a big problem. But, if you do, now is the time to fix it.
  2. Water stains — Don’t try to hide water issues. Use these as signs to fix something before an inspector finds it.
  3. Weird toilets — At least make sure it stops running.
  4. Fireplace faults — Make sure it’s clean and functional.
  5. Slow drains — A BIG turnoff. Likely an easy fix with some cleaning products or a cheap clog remover.
  6. Smelly basements — What’s the first thing you’d think? Wet basement. You don’t want that for your house or potential buyers. Address with a dehumidifier and check if the walls need sealing. Likely a place you’ll need to call in a professional.
  7. Shakes and wiggles. Pretend that you’re the buyer. Go through and find handrails or doorknobs that need securing.
  8. Stuck windows or doors — Beyond being annoying, they’re unsafe
  9. Trip zones — Fix the loose carpet or uneven floors. You don’t want that buyer falling down.
  10. Water pressure — Not out of the question for the potential buyer to flip on the sink or shower. Be ready.

All else fails? Remember buyers don’t like surprises. A little prep can go a long way to a sale and quick closing.

Every month should be cyber security awareness month

Did you know October is Cyber Security Awareness Month? Are you protected?

I, for one, like to think of every month (well, every day) as a chance to make sure my online persona and data is secure. It seems like each day you hear about another data breach or attack on personal information. In the real estate industry, the focus is on cyber security in terms of wire fraud.

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Keep your home safe during your travels

Believe it or not, Spring Break is just around the corner. I’m hearing clients and friends talking about those trips to Disney World, the beach or visits to family. But, like any time with large sections of the community out of school, homes are left vacant and targeted for theft.

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Home inventory shrinks in December

Passing the info on to you! Here’s a quick look at some of the key metrics compiled by Georgia REALTORS from December…

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Don’t forget your 2017 Homestead Exemption

Homeowners may need to provide their Warranty Deed book and page, proof of residence, social security numbers, driver’s license and car tag information.  In most counties, to be eligible for the current year, you must have owned and occupied the property as of January 1. If the property is located within city limits, the homeowner may be required to file with the city as well. 

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