Jessica Hosfeld’s Blog

One of the most important things you can do when selling your home is to prepare your home to sell or “Stage” it. These few tips can help you be successful without having to spend a fortune.

1. Clean the clutter! LESS = MORE
   Remove as many personal items as possible. This provides the buyer with a blank canvas in which they can better imagine how it would look with their belongings.
2. Deep clean: Make your home sparkle and shine!
3. Make rooms seem as large as possible: Remove furniture and accessories that are not needed/used. If necessary, rent a small storage unit.
4. Touch up paint: Paint any areas with noticeable wear and tear. A little fresh paint goes a long way and can earn back its cost ten-fold.
5. What’s that smell? Make sure your home smells fresh. You might not notice it, but other’s will. A few dollars spent on some plug-ins and air freshners will go a long way!
6. Make repairs: Make any significant repairs necessary.
7. Curb appeal! Make sure your yard is mowed and clear of debris. Plant a few vibrant colored flowers to showcase the curb appeal of your home.

Here are a few tips to help you get started on your way to purchasing a new home!

1. Lender pre-approval:  Begin by getting pre-approved by a reputable lender. 
   • Your agent should recommend three lenders to you.
   • Find out what lender can offer you the best “package” to fit your needs.
   • Be aware of lender fees, closing costs, down payment, interest rate, discount points, etc.
2. Do independent research:  Know and understand your market and what you can afford, don’t over-extend yourself. Your agent and lender can help to guide you in the right direction.
3. Work with a reputable real estate agent:  Find that reputable Realtor who will guide and help you in the buying process from start to finish. Look for someone who:
   • Understands your wants and needs
   • Makes time for you, remember YOU are the customer!
   • Is technically savvy
   • Is willing to get the job done
4. Know your top 3 “must have’s”: Make sure your agent is aware of you must have’s (this is a helpful time saving tip). Be flexible and remember there is no perfect house.
5. MLS Prospecting System:  Make sure your agent sets you up on the MLS Prospecting System if you have internet access. This database will open you up to all the homes for sale within your specified search criteria. You will recieve automated email updates as new homes come onto the market. This will make things easier for both you and your realtor.
6. Major Repairs:  Be aware of major repairs or updates that are needed when looking at homes. These items will have a major impact on the purchase price.  Some examples:
   • Furnace/Air
   • Electrical issues
   • Pest infestations
   • Mold
   • Water damage
   • Roof
   • Plumbing
   • Structural issues and more

   Your agent can help to guide you on these issues and help find a local contractor to give estimates and/or treat the issues. 

7. Making an offer:When making an offer, your agent should run a market analysis of the area, street and similar home sales to help you set an offer price. The agent can also find out what repairs the sellers have done so that you understand what they have spent on the home.
8. Be open to negotiations!

Yes, many people do purchase homes in November and December even during the hustle and bustle of the holidays!  Friends outside of the real estate market say to me “I bet December is a slow month for you” and I say “NO”!  It seems that during the 4th quarter rates drop, sales prices drop and sellers start to negotiate more.  Buyers can also take advantage of issues that sellers might be dealing with.  People that list list their homes during the holiday months MUST sell, either they are losing their homes through foreclosure, they’ve been transferred or maybe testing the waters……which is not a good idea during this time of year.  Therefore, it’s a fabulous time to buy and usually you get a pretty good deal all around!  2007 has been a great year for buyers, but the 4th quarter seems to be even better!

Welcome to Jessica Hosfeld’s Blog! This blog will provide you with valuable information, tips, and general insight into the real estate market in Akron.