Miami Herald (Sunday)

10 tips for home selling season

- BY CATHY HOBBS Tribune News Service (TNS) BY CATHY HOBBS Tribune News Service (TNS)

It has become the new “go to” wine, yet despite rose being nothing new, the resurgence of its popularity is helping to keep home decor also in a “rosy” state of mind.

The color rose or what was often referred to in the ’80s as “mauve” is hotter than ever especially as it relates to finishes, accessorie­s and accents.

From rose-colored gold finishes to artwork, accents and accessorie­s, rose is a popular and versatile color that can help to elevate, add interest and soothe spaces from living

rooms to bedrooms.

Whether the desire is to upsize, downsize or relocate to a different state or town, what are the best ways to prepare a property for sale? Depending on where you live, competitio­n may also be fierce. Sellers need to prepare and present their property in the best possible light to help ensure the highest equity of return.

Here are some of our top tips for those looking to sell their properties in the current season.

1. Use a profession­al real

Looking for ways to incorporat­e Rose into your color pal

ette? estate agent. The right real estate agent — one who knows your market — can go a long way to make sure your property is properly priced and presented.

2. Invest in repairs. Most buyers want properties that are move-in ready. Unfortunat­ely even minor repairs may be viewed as worry, work and money.

3. Find a real estate agent who invests in marketing and technology.

The agent will need to be able to present and showcase your property in multiple ways, including virtually and via social media platforms.

4. Hire a profession­al stager. Staging is a powerful marketing tool in which a property is prepared and styled to appeal to the largest number of potential buyers.

5. Ensure curb appeal. Your property should be just as appealing on the outside as it is on the inside. This is especially important as it will impact

Rose gold is still photograph­y as well as potential buyers who may drive by your property prior to scheduling a viewing.

6. Be realistic when it comes to price. A property that undergoes multiple price reductions may be viewed as less desirable. very much a specialty finish that you won’t necessaril­y find as easily as traditiona­l yellow gold.

Rose gold, however, can add a unique sense of elegance and interest. As a finish, rose gold will convey as a soft pink, which may or may not be desirable depending on the space.

Table bases, table legs as well as specialty light fixtures such as wall sconces are good places to start.

Cathy Hobbs, based in New York City, is an Emmy Award-winning television host and a nationally known interior design and home staging expert with offices in New York City, Boston and Washington, D.C.

Contact her at info@ cathyhobbs.com or visit her website at www. cathyhobbs.com.

7. Invest in upgrades. Kitchens and bathrooms still sell homes. Investing in items such as a new oven or refrigerat­or can add value.

8. Add lighting. A light and bright home will have more attractive­ness and appeal than a dark and gloomy one. From adding recessed lighting to integratin­g floor lamps and table lamps, adding as much as light as possible is key.

9. Paint. This is one of the least expensive cosmetic changes a homeowner can do. It can go a long way to helping a property appear clean and fresh.

10. Don’t delay. While your need to sell may or may not impact your timeline, with interest rates still low, real estate remains an attractive investment.

Cathy Hobbs, based in New York City, is an Emmy Award-winning television host and a nationally known interior design and home staging expert with offices in New York City, Boston and Washington, D.C. Contact her at info@cathyhobbs.com or visit her website at www.cathyhobbs.com.

 ?? Design Recipes/TNS ?? Rose accents such as a vase and toss pillow compliment rose-dominated artwork.
Design Recipes/TNS Rose accents such as a vase and toss pillow compliment rose-dominated artwork.
 ?? Getty Images/iStockphot­o/FollowTheF­low ?? Staging is a powerful marketing tool in which a property is prepared and styled to appeal to the largest number of potential buyers.
Getty Images/iStockphot­o/FollowTheF­low Staging is a powerful marketing tool in which a property is prepared and styled to appeal to the largest number of potential buyers.
 ?? Getty Images/iStockphot­o/ucpage ?? Your property should be just as appealing on the outside as it is on the inside.
Getty Images/iStockphot­o/ucpage Your property should be just as appealing on the outside as it is on the inside.
 ?? Getty Images/Phillip Spears ?? The right real estate agent can go a long way toward making sure your home is properly priced and presented.
Getty Images/Phillip Spears The right real estate agent can go a long way toward making sure your home is properly priced and presented.

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