Small Outdoor Spaces -7 Staging Tips

November 9, 2015 by

 Small Outdoor Spaces -7 Staging Tips

Small Outdoor Spaces -7 Staging Tips

An attractive outdoor space, even if it’s just big enough to sit and enjoy a cup of coffee or evening cocktail, can be a major selling point for potential buyers. Here are a few suggestions for maximizing your outdoor living space.

1. Floor it.
If you have a small outdoor area, it won’t break the bank to invest in higher quality tiles or stones. Snap-in deck tiles are another option for adding a touch of class.

2. Envision clarity.
When it comes to tables, go for glass-topped: It will help create the illusion of a larger space.

3. Watch your back.
Chairs and benches with more open backs don’t interrupt sight lines as much. They’ll keep your space feeling open, and looking larger.

4. Focus.
Creating a focal point in a small space adds visual interest. A simple piece of garden art, a small flowering tree or a tiny water feature in a corner can add style and distract buyers from focusing on square footage.

5. Scale down.
The world’s largest outdoor chaise lounge may be a napper’s dream, but it won’t do much to help your patio or deck. Choose outdoor furniture scaled to set off your space, not smother it. You can even find fire pits in smaller sizes.

6. Get vertical.
Wall gardens help add green without sacrificing space. Wall art made from succulent plants is another low-maintenance option for adding foliage, and drawing attention to the edges of your space, which helps visually enlarge it.

7. Don’t hide the grill.
A clean barbecue can help buyers imagine their own outdoor meals. Unless you have a grill or smoker large enough to hold the entire pig, or if your grill is in disrepair, keep it out.

Ready to show off your newly decorated deck or patio? Start by Contacting Nick & Cindy Davis with RE/MAX Premier Group here: Nick & Cindy Davis

Filed Under: Advice, Apollo Beach, Ask a Realtor, Brandon, Economy, Family, Fit to Sell, Florida, Home Ownership, Home Selling, Land O Lakes, Lutz, Macdiill, Moving, New Tampa, Nick & Cindy Davis, nick and cindy davis, RE/MAX, realtors, Tampa, Wesley Chapel Tagged With: , , , , ,

4 Resources for First-Time Homebuyers

November 2, 2015 by

4 Resources for First-Time Homebuyers

4 Resources for First-Time Homebuyers

Surveys show that first-time buyers aren’t aware of how much they need to save for a down payment. Many people believe that buying a home requires they put down at least 20 percent of the purchase price, but down payments aren’t as big of an obstacle as people think. For example, a loan through the Federal Housing Administration could require a down payment as low as 3.5 percent; Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have similarly low requirements.

If you qualify for a loan with a low down payment but still have trouble coming up with the cash, here are a few of the many programs out there that can help. Do some research to find out what’s available in your area.

  1. Help getting down
    The federal Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) gives community development block grants to states and local governments across the country to help revitalize certain areas. HUD’s HOME Investment Partnerships Program(HOME) is one such program. States often have their own programs for down payment assistance, too.
  2. Opening up options for closing
    The Federal National Mortgage Association, a.k.a. Fannie Mae, designed the HomePath Ready Buyer program to attract new homebuyers to the market. Through the program, qualifying first-time homebuyers can get assistance of up to 3 percent of closing costs after they pass an online homeownership course.
  3. Making ownership less taxing
    Some state governments provide first-time buyers with a tax credit to boost homeownership.
  4. Helping heroes
    The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Home Loan Guaranty Servicehelps veterans or surviving spouses obtain better terms for their mortgage by guaranteeing a portion of the loan. Some VA mortgages require no down payment.

Check the National Council of State Housing Agencies for more opportunities available in your state.

A buyer’s agent will be able to help you find the programs that operate in your area and are appropriate to your financial situation. Nick & Cindy Davis are here to assist you with your home purchase.

Filed Under: Advice, Apollo Beach, Ask a Realtor, Brandon, Buying a Home, Dade City, Florida, Home Buying, Homes for Sale, Land O Lakes, Lutz, Macdiill, Moving, New Construction, New Tampa, Nick & Cindy Davis, nick and cindy davis, RE/MAX, realtors, Tampa, Uncategorized, Wesley Chapel Tagged With: , , ,

7 Ways to Meet Your New Neighbors

October 12, 2015 by

7 Ways to Meet Your New Neighbors

Now that you’ve settled into your new home, it’s time to the meet the neighbors. Here are a few tips to break the ice. Go ahead, don’t be shy!

1. Throw an informal happy hour
After all that unpacking (or staring exhaustedly at those boxes that need to be unpacked) hosting a party may be the last thing you want to do. But a casual gathering involves little effort. A couple bottles of wine, a few snacks and you’re set to meet new friends. Plus this is the one time you can get away with a disorganized house and still have people over — take advantage.

2. Get some fresh air
Hang out in your front yard or on your porch. Neighbors are much more likely to stop by to say hello if they see you sitting outside with a cup of coffee than if you’re inside and they have to knock on your door.

3. Go exploring
Jog through your new neighborhood instead of hitting the gym. Neighbors will at least wave, if not stop you for a quick chat.

4. Puppy pride
Walking your dog, or playing with him or her in your yard or local dog park, is an excellent way to meet people, especially other dog lovers.

5. Cruise garage sales
You might not want to actually buy anything since you just gave away a lot of accumulated junk before your move, but perusing garage sales is a great way to meet your neighbors. Check out the local paper or Craigslist to find out where to go.

6. Hang out with your kids
Volunteering at school or chatting with other parents at the playground can result in new friends for you and your kids.

7. Dust off those oven mitts
Bringing homemade cookies to the neighbors makes a great first impression. If you haven’t unpacked your kitchen, bakery or store-bought goodies will also be appreciated. Don’t forget to stop by with dog treats to make new canine friends as well!

Filed Under: Advice, Apollo Beach, Ask a Realtor, Brandon, Buying a Home, Dade City, Family, Florida, Home Buying, Home Ownership, Land O Lakes, Lutz, Macdiill, Moving, New Construction, New Tampa, Nick & Cindy Davis, nick and cindy davis, RE/MAX, realtors, Tampa, Wesley Chapel Tagged With: , , ,

7 Ways to Reduce Stress When Buying or Selling a Home

October 5, 2015 by

7 Ways to Reduce Stress When Buying or Selling a Home


7 Ways to Reduce Stress When Buying or Selling a Home

Research has shown that buying or selling a home can be one of life’s most stressful events — right up there with filing for bankruptcy or getting a divorce. Preparation is the key to reducing anxiety. Here are a few tips:

1. Choose your agent carefully
An experienced pro will be prepared for every twist in the road, minimizing stress for you.

2. Home buyers: List before looking
Create and prioritize a list of “wants” and “needs” of home features before you begin touring properties. Waiting to think about what you’re truly looking for in a home until the showing will put you on the spot, creating anxiety.

3. Home buyers: Get mortgage preapproval
Having your finances ready eliminates white-knuckled waiting periods, or unpleasant surprises from lenders after you’ve found your dream home.

4. Don’t take things personally
It’s not you, it’s them. Or the market. Or the lender. Try not to take it personally if buyers value your home for less than what you’re asking, or if a seller rejects what you believe is a perfectly reasonable offer.

5. Keep things in perspective
Consider the worst-case scenario. Will you have to forage for food? Will you need to sell a kidney? Probably not. Other buyers will eventually materialize. Or you’ll find another home you love just as much as the one that got away.

6. Focus on something else
Give yourself a break and indulge in an activity that requires the undivided attention of your body and mind. Yoga lessons, anyone?

7. Find a four-legged friend
Petting and playing with animals is clinically proven to lower your blood pressure. And they won’t interrupt if you need to vent.

Talking things through with Nick & Cindy Davis is another way to de-stress. You can contact us here: www.TampaHomesSold.com

Filed Under: Advice, Apollo Beach, Ask a Realtor, Brandon, Buying a Home, Channelside, Dade City, Family, Fit to Sell, Florida, Home Buying, Home Selling, Homes for Sale, Land O Lakes, Lutz, Macdiill, Moving, New Construction, New Tampa, Nick & Cindy Davis, RE/MAX, realtors, Short sale, Tampa, Wesley Chapel Tagged With: , , ,

Landscaping 8 Money-Saving Tips

September 21, 2015 by

Landscaping 8 Money-Saving Tips

Landscaping 8 Money-Saving Tips

 

A yard with a beautiful landscape is one of the few home investments with a value that increases over the years. Buyers love mature plants and trees, so giving your yard some love even if you’re not planning on selling for a few years is a smart way to go. What’s even smarter? Employing these money-saving tips:

  1. Free mulch.
    Many municipalities recycle the yard waste they pick up curbside throughout the year into mulch, which is then made available to residents for free or a very low price. Surrounding your shrubs and trees with a layer of the stuff not only makes them stand out visually, it also helps conserve moisture and stave off bugs.
  2. Look to the list.
    Craigslist’s “farm and garden” section can be a treasure trove of outdoor planters, border stones and even “used” trees and shrubs. Check here first before heading to the nursery.
  3. Go big with your neighbors.
    Bedding plants are often less expensive when you buy them in bulk.
  4. Compost.
    Instead of buying bags of fertilizer, generate your own black gold for gardens by composting your kitchen waste. It’s not as hard – or smelly – as you’d think.
  5. Chat with a master.
    Master gardeners often hold free Q&A sessions at garden centers or local libraries. Before investing in new plants, seeds or shrubs, check with an expert to find which options will thrive without expensive maintenance.
  6. Rein it in.
    Trim back any trees, shrubs or vines that hide or overwhelm your windows, porch or patio. Sometimes the most effective landscaping upgrade can come from removing greenery, not adding it.
  7. Pull your weeds.
    It’s the outdoor equivalent of de-cluttering your home, an inexpensive way to boost your yard’s visual appeal.
  8. Powerwash fences and patios.
    It can take years off your fence and patio in just minutes. You’ll be amazed at how much brighter they’ll look with just a bit of effort that requires little more skill than running a vacuum. Rent a machine at your local home improvement box store for about $30.

Your Realtor can help you find ways even more ways to easily improve the landscape. You can contact Nick & Cindy Davis here: email Nick & Cindy Davis or visit www.TampaHomesSold.com

Filed Under: Advice, Apollo Beach, Ask a Realtor, Brandon, Curb Appeal, Economy, Family, Fit to Sell, Florida, Home Ownership, Home Selling, Land O Lakes, Lutz, Moving, New Tampa, Nick & Cindy Davis, nick and cindy davis, RE/MAX, realtors, Tampa, Wesley Chapel Tagged With: , ,

“Does it Come With The House?”

September 7, 2015 by

“Does it Come With The House?”

“Does it Come With The House?”

Heavy, bulky items can be awkward to pack up and difficult to move. They also can be seen as big perks to potential buyers. If you’re willing to part with the items below, have your agent pitch them as unique features of your house.

1. Basketball hoop – This can be great for families with young children. A game of basketball is the perfect icebreaker between neighborhood kids.

2. Trampoline – Another family-friendly item. That is, as long it’s not rusted or in otherwise poor condition.

3. Washer/Dryer – One less thing for buyers transitioning from apartment life to worry about.

4. Garage storage – Once you really dive into packing, you’ll be glad you don’t have to disassemble your shelving and storage racks, let alone find a box they fit in.

5. Light fixtures – Know your audience on this one. People can either think Tiffany lamps add character to a room or subtract from it.

6. Child proofing – The chances all those tiny socket plugs and safety latches make it to your new home are slim anyway.

7. Backyard shed – Gardeners and lawn care enthusiasts will rejoice.

Be prepared that a potential buyer may say “No.” Make sure you only leave behind items the buyer is interested in!

Does throwing in your washer and dryer merit a higher asking price? What about your garage shelves? Work with experienced RE/MAX agents Nick & Cindy Davis to reach a price that is fair for both parties.

Filed Under: Advice, Apollo Beach, Brandon, Buying a Home, Channelside, Dade City, Economy, Family, Fit to Sell, Florida, Home Selling, Land O Lakes, Lutz, Macdiill, Moving, Nick & Cindy Davis, nick and cindy davis, RE/MAX, realtors, Tampa, Uncategorized, Wesley Chapel Tagged With: , , ,

Moving Day 7 Things to Keep in Mind!

August 31, 2015 by

Moving Day 7 Things to Keep in Mind!

After months of touring homes, playing phone tag with your mortgage lender and researching school districts, you’ve finally closed on a house. Congratulations!

Now the hard part begins.

Moving is always a pain in the neck (and back), but if you plan ahead and stay organized you can certainly reduce your stress level. Here are some tips and reminders:

  1. Book furniture donations weeks in advance…
    Although many donation companies will happily pick up furniture, many require you to schedule an appointment, and they can be backed up for weeks at a time.

      2.  As well as your friends. Your friends are there for you for the good times and moving day, but no one is                going  to cancel their plans last minute for the opportunity to haul furniture, even if you promise beer
          and pizza.

  1. Avoid mystery boxes.
    Label everything – and be specific! In the first few days of unpacking, you won’t want to sort through boxes of heirloom china when all you need is a spoon.
     
  2. Rethink categorization.
    Box things up according to what, not where, they are. For example, you’ll likely rearrange furniture before putting away any décor. Keep artwork together so you aren’t stumbling over a box of decorative vases while reassembling your bookcase.
     
  3. Have the essentials ready.
    Pack these basics together so you can be somewhat civilized while putting everything away at your new place: Trashcan, dishtowels, toilet paper, hand soap, shower curtain and bathroom rug.
  4. Be conscious about weight.

     

     

     

    Don’t pile everything into one box that will be impossible to lift. It’s much easier to make several trips with light boxes than to carry a bulkier item between two people.
     

  5. Yes, you need a dolly!
    If you have the option to rent a dolly, do it! It will make your life 100 percent easier.

Moving is difficult enough – finding your dream home shouldn’t be! Nick & Cindy Davis are ready to help: http://www.tampahomessold.com/

 
Filed Under: Advice, Apollo Beach, Brandon, Buying a Home, Economy, Family, Florida, Home Selling, Land O Lakes, Lutz, Macdiill, Moving, New Construction, New Tampa, nick and cindy davis, RE/MAX, realtors, Tampa, Uncategorized, Wesley Chapel Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Selling Your Home? 3 Ways to Help Kids Cope

August 24, 2015 by

Selling Your Home? 3 Ways to Help Kids Cope

Selling Your Home? 3 Ways to Help Kids Cope

When preparing children for a move, it’s important to find ways to get them excited about the new house, school and even city they’ll be in after a few months. But don’t overlook the more immediate changes to their lives that begin as soon as you put your home on the market.

Here is what they might be thinking as you begin the home-selling process, and strategies to alleviate your child’s concerns.

  1. “Who is this stranger invading our lives?”
    Your listing agent will become a frequent presence in your home, and your child may see him or her as the catalyst of all the changes to come. Help form a positive relationship between your kids and your agent by getting everyone together over coffee (hot chocolate for the little ones) or dinner.
     
  2. “Where did my stuff go?”
    Staging a home often means prepacking some of a child’s favorite things. Involve kids in packing as much as possible. This gives them an idea of where their toys and clothes have gone rather than fearing they’ve disappeared forever. The personal favorites – a blanket, stuffed animal or even family photos – should be the last to go. It’s easy to store them under the bed during a showing. You can even have your child put them away so he or she will know exactly where they will be when you return from an outing.
     
  3. “Why can’t we go home?”
    Vacating a house for a showing can be disruptive to kids’ schedules. Take them somewhere special so they see it as a treat. A movie, the local bookstore or a special restaurant are all good options.

If possible, it may be a good idea to let your child accompany you on a showing so they understand what visitors are doing when you have to leave your house for a couple of hours. You can also ask your agent to set up a “mock” showing of your current home for your children.

Nick and Cindy Davis are well known for their years of experience. They will have even more ideas on how to make the process of selling your home a positive experience for your child. To contact Nick and Cindy Davis click here. or you can visit www.TampaHomesSold.com to find out more about Nick and Cindy Davis.

 
Filed Under: Advice, Apollo Beach, Ask a Realtor, Brandon, Family, Fit to Sell, Florida, Home Ownership, Home Selling, Land O Lakes, Lutz, Macdiill, Moving, New Tampa, Nick & Cindy Davis, nick and cindy davis, RE/MAX, realtors, Tampa, Uncategorized, Veterans, Wesley Chapel Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

7 ways a buyer’s agent makes life easier!

August 17, 2015 by

7 ways a buyer’s agent makes life easier!

As a potential home-buyer, it’s important that you understand the two different types of real estate agents. A seller’s agent looks out for the interests of the person selling the property while a buyer’s agent can serve as your advocate during your home search. Here are just a few reasons to enlist a buyer’s agent’s help.
 

1. They save time
These days, you can glean tons of information (not all of it accurate) on your own from the Internet. An agent can use their experience and expertise to streamline your search, guiding you to the properties that are truly appropriate and eliminating legwork on your end.
 

2. They have the inside scoop
Thanks to their professional network, agents often know of properties before they hit online listing sites.
 

3. They keep you in check
Shopping for your next home can be an emotionally charged, overwhelming experience. A buyer’s agent can help you keep your main objectives – and financial limitations – in mind as you sift through properties with alluring features.
 

4. They a have team of experts on speed dial
An agent can save you time, heartache and dollars by connecting you with trusted service providers such as painters, inspectors and insurance brokers.
 

5. They play hardball
Buyer’s agents are professional negotiators, with the skills and experience needed to get a fair price for you.
 

6. They don’t get paper cuts
They’ll help you complete all the time-consuming paperwork accurately and on time.
 

7. They’ll be the first to congratulate you when you close
A buyer’s agent will be your advocate at closing, making sure all your interests are protected as you sign that pile of forms at the settlement table.


Interested to learn more about how we can assist with your unique buying needs? Get in touch with us: Nick & Cindy Davis

Filed Under: Advice, Apollo Beach, Brandon, Buying a Home, Dade City, Family, Florida, Home Buying, Homes for Sale, Land O Lakes, Lutz, Macdiill, Moving, New Tampa, Nick & Cindy Davis, nick and cindy davis, RE/MAX, realtors, Tampa, Uncategorized, Veterans, Wesley Chapel Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

6 Questions to Ask a Potential Listing Agent

August 10, 2015 by

Selling your home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make. It’s important to have a qualified professional by your side to help you navigate the twists and turns. Here are some questions to help determine which listing agent is right for you.

  1. “Where’s the best coffee around here?”
    Although a perfect caramel macchiato isn’t critical to the sales process (though it certainly can’t hurt), your listing agent should have experience in your neighborhood. He or she should have bought and sold enough homes to know the area’s history, pros, cons and quirks, not to mention where the locals head for a good cup of joe.
     
  2. “How will you market my property?”
    Two balloons on a yard sign no longer cut it. Find out exactly how each prospective listing agent plans to reach buyers. A strategy should go beyond holding an open house. If an agent looks baffled when you mention “virtual tour,” it may be time to find someone more experienced in digital outreach.
     
  3. “How many clients do you have right now?”
    Go for the Goldilocks agent, the one with the slate of clients that’s “just right” and can give you the attention and energy you deserve. Even with an assistant, an agent with double-digit clients may not be able to provide the personal focus you require. On the other hand, if you’re an agent’s only client, there’s probably a reason why.
     
  4. “Can I talk to a previous client – or three?”
    Ask for references from clients an agent has worked with in the past six months. Some things to ask: How responsive was the agent during the process? Did the client get their asking price? What could the agent have done better?
     
  5. “How much would you list my property for?”
    Make sure prospective agents can explain their pricing rationale, including showing you comparable sales listings in the area.
     
  6. “What’s your sign?”
    No, not their horoscope. Ask about professional affiliations. When agents are part of the RE/MAX network, they bring with them the power of the company whose agents sell more real estate than any other.

When you’re ready to find an agent, start your search www.TampaHomesSold.com

 
Filed Under: Advice, Apollo Beach, Ask a Realtor, Brandon, Business, Dade City, Family, Fit to Sell, Florida, Home Ownership, Home Selling, Homes for Sale, Land O Lakes, Lutz, Macdiill, Moving, New Tampa, Nick & Cindy Davis, nick and cindy davis, RE/MAX, realtors, Short sale, Tampa, Uncategorized, Wesley Chapel Tagged With: , , , , ,
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