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Buying a Home
Learn everything you need to know about buying a home.
Learn the process home buyers need to follow, beginning with getting pre-approved for a loan, followed by taking the steps to choosing the right realtor® for your needs, and ending with what goes into putting a contract on a home and making the actual move.
You can find tips on packing belongings and moving pets. Also, you can find vital information on who to talk to about schools, healthcare, insurance and cost of living.
Home Buyer Guides
Check Your Curb Appeal
First impressions are everything.
Consequently, a home that's visually appealing and in good condition will attract potential buyers driving down the street, since the outside is the first impression a buyer gets of your entire home.
Use this checklist to view your property through an outsider's eyes.
- Are the lawn and shrubs well maintained?
- Are there cracks in the foundation or walkways?
- Does the driveway need resurfacing?
- Are the gutters, chimney and walls in good condition?
- Do the window casings, shutters, siding or doors need painting?
- Are garbage and debris stored out of sight?
- Are lawn mowers and hoses properly stored?
- Is the garage door closed?
On the Inside
Strong curb appeal will lure potential buyers inside your home, where you must prove that the beauty outside the home only reflects more beauty on the inside of the home. Fortunately, there are plenty of easy improvements you can make to your home's interior without spending a lot of money.
Cleaning is No. 1. Your windows, floors and bathroom tiles should sparkle.
Make sure you have clean heating and air conditioning filters.
Shampoo dirty carpets, clean tubs and showers, repair dripping faucets and oil squeaky doors. Keep your home neat, clean and picked-up at all times. It may not seem fair, but a peek in the oven may be the hallmark by which a buyer judges how well you have maintained your home.
Additionally, remove unnecessary clutter from the garage, basement, attic, and closets. Arrange the stored items in a neat and tidy fashion.
Also remove any items that might make a statement that would be offensive to others who may not share your same views, beliefs or sense of humor. If your home is crowded with too much furniture, consider putting some pieces into storage. Furthermore, if a room needs a fresh coat of paint, use a neutral off-white.
Always be certain to remove valuables such as jewelry and other items from view. It might be wise to put these items in a safe deposit box before showing your home.
Think, too, about how your home smells. Pet odors, the smell of cigarettes, and musty smells such as mold and mildew may not affect you, but these scents can be a strong turn-off to others.
Finally, set the mood for the buyer. Make your house homey and comfortable with fresh flowers and clean guest towels in the bathroom. Place scented potpourri or candles around the house. For a welcoming aroma, pop a batch of frozen cinnamon rolls or a roll of cookies into the oven a few minutes before the potential buyer comes to see the home.
Remember, cosmetic changes do not have to be expensive.
In fact, costly home improvements do not necessarily offer a good return on your investment when you sell. Attention to the basics will give you and the potential buyer the most satisfaction. Anything that says this home has been carefully maintained will help you get the price you want.
Contact advantage for selling advice.
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Meeting the Needs of Clients for
30
Years
Founded by Richard Ellis Sr. in 1980, Advantage Realty was based upon the belief that real estate decisions need to be developed with the client’s total needs in mind.
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Have you met...
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| Darren McAusland |
 Eleven years as a professional athlete taught Darren the true meaning of hard work, determination and a commitment to excellence. Darren has been a full time member of the Advantage Realty Group since 2003. Darren is a member of the National Association of Realtors, Alabama Association of Realtors, ... |
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The Advantage Realty Group is an equal opportunity housing provider
© 2001-2010 The Advantage Realty Group, Inc.
All Rights Reserved.
Information provided is thought to be reliable but is not guaranteed to be accurate.
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