Some important tips to selling your home
Spring is a popular time for listing homes.. Use these tips from the Real Estate Council of Ontario to get started.
1. Research potential agents. You’ll want to find a registered real estate salesperson who is right for you. Shop around before you make a decision. You could ask friends, family or coworkers for recommendations. Once you’ve made a shortlist of salespeople, talk to at least three of them. Sit down with them and ask about their real estate experience, references, services they provide, and how much they charge.
2. Decide on a selling approach. Many sellers are happy when their salesperson lists the home on the MLS, places a sign on the front lawn and shows it to interested buyers. Other sellers want more bells and whistles such as open houses, home staging, digital marketing or even advertising in high-end magazines. It’s important that you and your salesperson are on the same page when it comes to marketing and selling your home. Keep in mind that the fees may vary, depending on services provided. Be sure to confirm if extra services like home staging are included in your agreement or if there will be additional charges.
3. Keep your home safe during open houses. An open house is an invitation for visitors to enter your home. Protect yourself by removing valuables and personal information, ensuring that guests are asked to show ID and making sure they’re accompanied at all times. If you don’t think holding an open house is right for you, tell your salesperson.
Find more information about your rights and responsibilities when buying or selling a home at www.reco.on.ca
----ADD VALUE AND STYLE
Updating your home can make the space more livable and beautiful. But giving your home a refresh can also boost your property value. Here are some ideas to consider for your next improvement project, big or small.
Layer the lighting. The secret to making a room look like it came straight out of a magazine is layered lighting. Set the tone with ambient lighting at every height. Try experimenting with wall-mounted sconces, pendants, chandeliers or foot lamps for a brighter space and increased functionality.
Customize your window treatments. Made-to-order window coverings are like a well-tailored blazer — they instantly add timeless luxury and professional sophistication. Opt for a classic look with clean lines that’s always in style, like Vignette modern roman shades from Hunter Douglas. Unlike other roman shades, they can open from the top, from the bottom, or somewhere in-between for the perfect balance of privacy and light. Choose from an array of luxurious textures and colours to transform your windows.
Stage like a pro. Even if you’re the only one who will be seeing your home this weekend, style the place like a designer would for an open house. Start with your coffee table — combine one large statement piece like a vase or bowl and stack art books or candles for fashionable flair. Other meaningful touches are fresh orchids, plumping the pillows and draping a throw across the couch.
Modernize your kitchen. Few renovation projects offer a better return on your investment than a kitchen upgrade. This key room is the heart of the home and is often the first place guests look. Even small updates can make a big difference. Try swapping out a dated sink or an ancient microwave for a new energy-efficient model, or painting the cabinets and replacing knobs and handles with a stylish metal like brass.