As we age wouldn't you say that maintenance becomes more of an issue especially if we try to look younger than we are or at the very least our age.
It is highly likely that our homes and the homes of our clients are in the same boat.
Anytime a house has a few years on it, it begins to show some signs of wear and tear. If the owners are not vigilant these can easily become eyesores. However, it is not always apparent to the owners. Unfortunately, just as we may not want to notice a loved ones flaws, sometimes we are not willing to acknowledge the less then perfect aspects of our homes.
Then comes the day of reckoning. The house is to be sold.
All of a sudden there are so many things that must be addressed. There are times the owners will realize the need to do repairs and sprucing up.
Other homeowners tend to ignore the reality of these flaws. They insist that they are minor. They have lived with them and why can't the new owners. Meanwhile we, as agents, are thinking we are going to have a hard time enticing anyone to become the new owners. Often, even when buyers claim to be looking for a "fixer upper" they shy away when confronted with one.
It is one of the most important responsibilities that an agent has, to tell the sellers what needs to be addressed in order to ready a house for sale. It is often important to enlist the services of a home inspector to discover the items that need repair or replacement. A stager may be helpful in improving the appearance of the home.
It is sometimes difficult for owners to admit that there are imperfections, sometimes even the things that have annoyed them about their home for years. It takes patience and understanding mixed with firmness to deliver the news that sellers often know but do not want to admit.
Right now, with large inventories and few buyers, it is especially important for REALTORS to stress the importance of showing a home to its best advantage.
Preparing a home to hit the market looking the best it possibly can may well shorten the days it remains active. First impressions still count.
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If you or someone you know is thinking of buying or selling property at or near Lake Anna, Virginia please contact Kathleen "Kate" Elim, REALTOR®.
Kate lives at Lake Anna, knows Lake Anna, loves Lake Anna, and specializes in Lake Anna area real estate.
Call Kate at 540-226-1964 or by e-mail at lakeanna.kate@gmail.com. Be sure to check Kate's Web site http://lakeannacountry.com/.
Copyright © 2008 By Kathleen "Kate" Elim, All Rights Reserved. *Assessing Our Homes Honestly*.
©Copyright Kate Elim 2011
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