10 Things To Take Care of Before Listing Your Home

Getting ready to list your home for sale is less stressful when you’re well prepared. Follow our list of 10 things to take care of before listing your home and feel confident as your home goes on the market.

Declutter Surfaces

It’s difficult to move on to the other items on the list if the house is covered in clutter. Start with all of the surfaces of the house, such as counters, coffee tables, and nightstands. Next, delve into the corners of the house where you’ve stashed things under beds and tables.

Clean and Dust

Give your home a thorough cleaning from top to bottom. Pay special attention to flooring, bathrooms, and kitchens.

Get your broom and vacuum ready because it’s time for the dust bunnies to make an exit. Dust everything from ceiling fans to under furniture.

Unclog the Drains

Buyers who are interested in a home will run the water and flush toilets. The last thing you need is a clogged or backed-up drain. Watch for signs that you’ve got a backup in your drainage system and get it fixed before listing your home.

Get Organized

Make the house look so organized that you start to reconsider selling. The most important areas for organization are kitchen cabinets, pantries, and closets. Spend a Saturday organizing, and it’ll make quite an impact during showings.

Paint Doors and Trim

Freshen up the house with touch-up paint on the doors and trim if your trim is outdated or painted and needs refreshing. White is popular and makes rooms look brighter.

Replace Lightbulbs

Walk through the house and replace any dull or burnt-out lightbulbs. This is a simple way to brighten up rooms and make them look clean and bigger.

Shine Glass and Appliances

Grab your favorite window and appliance cleaners and a roll of paper towels and shine all the shiny glass surfaces in your house. Here are some places to consider cleaning:

• Stove

• Dishwasher

• Refrigerator

• Stone counters

• Windows

• Doors

• Mirrors

Open Up Window Treatments

Let the sunshine in and make rooms look bigger by opening all your window treatments. Remove heavy drapes and open blinds and shades. Make sure any window treatments still hanging are freshly cleaned.

Keep the House Cool

When buyers walk through a stuffy home, it gives them a negative feeling. Keep the house set at a cool temperature so buyers feel alert and the house isn’t humid or sticky. Run ceiling fans if the air conditioning isn’t enough.

Make the Garage Attractive

Finally, clean out the garage. Try these steps for a clean and organized garage:

1. Remove everything.

2. Sweep it out and hose down the floor.

3. Remove cobwebs from corners.

4. Wash windows.

5. Go through items removed and donate or throw away what you don’t need.

6. Add shelving if you don’t have any.

7. Place what’s left neatly on the shelves.

8. Pull cars back in.

We hope our list of 10 things to take care of before listing your home helps as you prepare for an exciting move. Remember, every step is worth it for a stress-free, quick home sale.

6 Best Ways to Fund Your Home Improvement Project

Homes need a little love every now and then. Maybe it’s finally time to make it a little more livable by finishing your basement or your attic or giving your bathroom tiles a serious refurbishing. You could also be planning on selling your house, and you want to raise its value, or maybe there are some small issues here and there that could potentially become full-fledged problems sooner rather than later. 

Whatever your reason for a home improvement project, you’re probably second-guessing due to the money often required to pull it off. Sure, small projects may only require grabbing equipment already available to you and a few hours out of your day, but big changes like bathroom renovations can amount to around $8,000. Remodeling your kitchen can get even pricier as it can cost upwards of $12,000.

While saving up for a specific project is the ideal way to pay for your home upgrade, it isn’t always possible. It will depend on the size of your project, your current financial situation, home equity, credit, and the goals you wish to achieve with this improvement. 

Once you’ve decided to push through with your project, you have several options when it comes to financing it. 

1. Cash-Out Refinance 

Cash-Out refinance lets you change the terms of your mortgage and cash out a portion of the equity you have in your home. You can then pocket the difference between your old mortgage and this new loan to make home improvements. 

However, there are a few drawbacks to this financing option, so consider it carefully. You should only opt to refinance if you can secure a lower interest rate than what you pay right now. With this method, keep in mind that you will need to pay for an appraisal, taxes, origination fees, and other closing-related costs. 

2. Home Remodel or Repair Loans

If you’re only planning a small or midsize project like a window replacement or a simple bathroom makeover, this is the financing option for you. 

Banks, credit unions, and a host of online lenders offer home improvement loans. These are typically unsecured personal loans, which means you won’t need to use your house as collateral to qualify. Your qualification, as well as your interest rate, will be based largely on your credit score. 

For this type of loan, funding comes quickly once you agree to the terms and conditions. Lenders will deposit the money straight into your account in as little as 24 hours. Compared to HELOCs, home remodel or repair loans have shorter repayment timelines, fewer fees, and lower loan amounts.

Be wary of this option, though, especially if you have fair or poor credit. Since this type of loan is unsecured, they typically have higher rates than HELOCs. Before getting a loan, make sure to do thorough research on the loan lenders you come in contact with, as some may charge exorbitant fees for application processing and late payments. Compare and contrast so that you can choose loan lenders that offer friendly repayment terms, quick payouts, and lower interest rates. 

3. Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC)

When it comes to home improvement financing, HELOCs are a common choice. HELOCs are secured loans wherein you can qualify for lower rates compared to unsecured personal loans. 

However, with HELOCs, you will have to put up your home as collateral, so there is a possibility of it being foreclosed should you not make your payments on time. HELOCs also have variable interests, which means the increase of your payments will directly depend on market conditions. 

A HELOC is a revolving credit, meaning you can take what you need when you need it up until you reach your borrowing limit. This financing option is perfect for ongoing or lengthy renovation projects. 

Remember that, since you’re borrowing against your house, you will need sufficient home equity. Make sure to have at least 15 to 20% equity in your home. 

4. Home Equity Loan 

If you know just how much you’re going to spend on your home improvement project, why not get a home equity loan? Also known as a second mortgage, this type of loan is a lump sum that you can repay over a number of years, typically in regular fixed monthly payments. 

Unlike HELOCs, you wouldn’t need to worry about market fluctuations as once you lock in your fixed interest rate, you will be paying the same amount monthly over the life of your loan. 

However, this loan offers less payment flexibility than with a HELOC. Missing payments can also significantly damage you, as home equity loans use your home as collateral. 

5. Government Loans 

One way to save on the cost of insurance and interest is by applying for a government loan. 

One type of loan that the government provides is the HUD Title I Property Improvement Loan that lets you borrow up to $25,000 without having any equity in your home. However, some home upgrades may not qualify for this loan. You have to make sure that the money from this loan will go towards renovations that improve the livability of your home.

6. Credit Card

Keep in mind that there are huge risks associated with making large home adjustments on a credit card, such as high fees and interest rates. Using your card is best saved for making minor updates to your home. This can include installing a new closet system or adding small pieces of furniture here and there. Take advantage of cards that are interest-free for the first few months.

Aside from all the financing options stated above, remember to plan well. Do your research and create a budget you’re sure you can stick to. Keep track of all your expenses and be smart when buying furniture, materials for construction, and other paraphernalia.

How to Save Money on Home Repairs and Regular Maintenance

Buying a home is one of the best investments one can ever make during his/her lifetime. After you’ve purchased one, you’ll enjoy the control, comfort, and security that comes with owning a home. While buying a home is an expensive investment, you will always carry out routine maintenance to ensure it’s in good working condition. Regular maintenance will give you a peaceful mind as you continue living in your dream home. But how can you save money for home repairs and regular maintenance? The following are a few helpful tips to help maximize your savings.

Do The Repairs/Maintenance Yourself

Not every home repair will require outsourcing for a professional fixer. There are some repairs you can comfortably handle by yourself to save on the general maintenance cost. For instance, you can have regular inspections of your gutters and downspouts to ensure they aren’t clogged. Also, if your residential garage door openers are broken, you can always find a perfect replacement match. However, if you notice an issue beyond your repair, you should contact an expert. Remember to prioritize quality when purchasing a replacement. Garage doors are heavy and could cause serious damages if they aren’t handled properly.

Practice Preventive Maintenance

While this doesn’t come as a surprise, prevention is always better than cure. As a homeowner, you are advised to practice basic maintenance practices that cost little. This prevents major problems from manifesting. For example, regular cleaning of roofs and gutter is simple, yet it can protect your roof from getting damaged faster. Also, you can keep your home clean to keep away rodents and critters from damaging your home valuables.

Use Alternative/Clean Sources of Energy

Using alternative sources of energy can significantly reduce the cost of home maintenance. Unlike conventional energy sources, alternative energy is cheap hence saves you utility bills. Additionally, alternative energy sources are clean energies. This means that they won’t produce soot in your roofing or ceiling. This, therefore, saves you the cost of ceiling/roof repair.

Hire Qualified Professionals

Whether you need gutter repairs, roof maintenance, or window repair, then having a qualified expert helps you save money in the long run. Since many homeowners don’t believe this, they often hire cheap and nonqualified fixers to do the job. Unqualified persons are more likely to do shoddy jobs that won’t last long before you need them again. On the other side, qualified professionals will charge you a reasonable price to do the repairs and maintenance with professionality. Plus, they have the right tools and experience to ensure every maintenance is done perfectly for longer service.

It feels good to own a home. However, as a homeowner, it’s your responsibility to ensure your home remains in its tiptop condition. While the cost of maintaining a home can be high, the above-mentioned tips will help you save significantly on home repairs and maintenance.

Fitting your hobby into a small home

Hobbies bring us joy and peace of mind. They provide us with a way to let out our creativity and pursue our passions. However, they also require time and space. And while we usually manage to find time for what matters to us, finding space can be way more difficult, especially if you live in a small home. Some hobbies such as reading or gaming don't require a lot of space. However, creating an art studio can be quite challenging when living small. But, with some determination and flexibility, nothing is impossible. Here are some excellent ideas on fitting your hobby into a small home!

Assess your needs and possibilities

While some hobbies don't require much space, others demand a bit of planning and consideration.

Although that spacious, dream-like studio has to remain a dream, there are many ways to utilize the space you have. First things first, you should consider what you need the most and the options you have at your disposal. Having a good plan will help you set up everything with ease and stress-free.

For starters, make a detailed list of all the essentials for your hobby. What furniture pieces are necessary - a desk with a large work surface, a chair? Then, make a list of all supplies you need. What materials and tools do you use at all times? How much space will they occupy?

Last but not least, assess the rooms that could function as your hobby space. Depending on what your hobby requires, don't forget to consider these factors:

• proper lighting

• temperature (heating and cooling systems)

• humidity

• ventilation.

Once you put everything down on paper, the perfect solution may become obvious. Here are some of the most popular options for fitting your hobby into a small home!

Repurpose a room

With a bit of remodeling, you will have no trouble with fitting your hobby into a small home

If you're lucky enough to have an extra room in your home, that's perfect! A small room that you rarely use can be just what you need. For example, a little dining room you only use for special occasions can be easily repurposed as an ideal hobbyist's space.

Additionally, there are two rooms that people often overlook - the attic and the basement. With a little bit of effort and a few improvements, you can utilize your attic with ease. The same applies to the basement - after you finish it (if you haven't already), it can become your favorite part of the house!

Use the outdoor space

If you live in a house, there is a whole new world of possibilities for you. For example, you can use a garage or a shed you already have. After all, most people use them more often as storage space. Instead, clear the clutter and remodel your garage. That way, you'll create a cozy room where you can pursue your hobby with pleasure.

Create a separate area in your small apartment

On the other hand, if you live in a studio apartment, utilizing the outdoor space is not possible. However, if you're truly determined and passionate about your hobby, you can find a way to carve a cozy nook for it.

The key to creating the perfect space is making it separate and distinct from the rest of the room. What's best, there are many items you can use to divide the available space into clear areas. Here are some of the best ideas:

• room dividers and partitions - they come in a variety of designs and materials and will add a stylish flair to your home

• colorful throw rugs are perfect for creating distinct yet functional areas

• drapes or curtains - if you don't want anyone to see your work in progress before it's finished, light, pretty curtains around your hobby space are the way to go

• furniture pieces - rearrange your sofa or bookshelves so that they separate your pastime space from other parts of the room.

Store your supplies and requisites effectively

Once you decide on the right space for your hobby, there's still one question remaining. What to do with all the supplies, tools, and other equipment? Depending on your hobby, all of these can take up a lot of space. Not to mention, you need some room to work in!

Luckily, there are several things you can do. First, you can choose a cabinet or use a closet in your home and keep all your supplies there. However, one size doesn't fit all, and some people don't like this solution. Out of sight, out of mind - some hobbyists prefer their supplies to be close at hand.

Be creative with storage solutions

So, if your hobby requires a lot of setting up or you just love to see everything in one place, it's time to consider storage options. Of course, what will work best for you depends on the type, size, and amount of supplies you need. Here are some ideas:

• multipurpose furniture - a desk with a lot of drawers or a chair with built-in storage are a great way to make the most of your furniture pieces

• vertical racks and hooks won't take up floor space

• additional shelving might be just what you need

• bins, baskets, and various containers can be perfect for sorting your supplies

If you have difficulties fitting your hobby into a small home, move to a larger one!

Unfortunately, if nothing from above is an option for you, it might be the right time to relocate to a larger home. Pursuing hobbies has an important role in our life. Not only does it bring us joy and pleasure, but studies also show it's beneficial to our mental health and well-being. So, if your home feels too limited and cramped, moving to a larger home can be an all-around excellent idea.

For example, while living in NYC has many advantages, it also takes its toll on the quality of life. Especially if you live in Brooklyn, the constant hustle and bustle can be very stressful and overwhelming. So, it might be the right time to hire long-distance movers to help you leave Brooklyn for some quiet town where you can relax and enjoy everything life has to offer. Including your hobbies, of course.

Final thoughts

So, as you may see, even living small is not an obstacle to following your heart and passions. It's true that fitting your hobby into a small home can be pretty challenging. However, with a bit of effort and imagination, you can carve a perfect space for it. Having a dedicated space where you can spend hours enjoying your hobby will give you a new level of motivation and inspiration!

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