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4 Projects to Finish Before You Sell
Are you ready to make the transition to a new home? Or at least take a few steps to get there?
If so, you’ll need to think about selling your current property, and you’re probably hoping to get the best price possible.
Renovations can be a great value booster. The right changes appeal to buyers and help you make a great return on your investment.
Here are four ways you might want to renovate before selling.
- Fresh Paint Job: A new coat of paint is one of the most affordable renovations — and you can even do it yourself. Uplifting colors, like taupe or soft teal, can make a room look brighter. Remember that the more neutral the area, the easier it is for buyers to picture themselves living there.
- Countertops and Light Fixtures: If you want to make your home look new without undergoing a full remodel, updating the countertops and light fixtures can work wonders. Similar to paint colors, it’s best to stick with simple styles.
- Break-Even Remodel: Did you know the kitchen and bathrooms are the most important parts of the house? To interest buyers, consider a break-even remodel in these lived-in spaces. If the cabinets and floors are outdated, try low-cost upgrades (like new hardware) so the rooms look more modern.
- Market Trends: Before deciding which renovations to make, check out the latest trends in home design. Choosing improvements based on what’s popular can help your house stand out to buyers — both online and in person.
Preparing your home to sell is easier with an experienced professional in your corner. To learn more about value-adding renovations, or to start looking for a new property, get in touch today.
How Paint Color Can Enhance Your Mood
Your paint choices have a significant impact on your home. Not only can color determine your living space’s overall aesthetic, but it can also influence your mood and set the right tone for your guests. Do you want your space to feel comfy and serene or trendy and dramatic? Or maybe your family’s style is somewhere in between.
Here are five color inspirations that can enhance your mood and your home.
- Inspired by Nature: Are you spending a lot of time indoors? Consider adding more natural elements. Shades of sunny yellow, soft brown and deep green can open up your space and make it feel more calming.
- Uplifting Hues: Trendy tones — like Pantone’s Ultimate Gray and Illuminating — make a statement. Or you could use Benjamin Moore’s Aegean Teal as an accent color or to add light and vibrancy to an entire room.
- Rich Jewel Tones: Do you want an elegant and luxurious aesthetic? Bold magenta, deep blue and royal purple can help you create more dramatic spaces.
- Classic Neutrals: Use deep gray or soft taupe to create a clean, minimalistic palette. And the best part? These colors are timeless and pair well with nearly any home decor.
- Warm and Cozy: Encourage feelings of warmth and positivity with desert-inspired hues such as rust and soft pink. A soothing color, like apricot, could be perfect in a bedroom or nursery.
The right color palette can evoke the feelings you want in your home. Need more help choosing your tone and style? Reach out today for a recommendation or to look for a new space to make your own.
5 Ways to Build More Equity in Your Home
Equity — or the share of your property you actually own — is a benefit to any homeowner. For one, it means more profits when it’s time to sell. On top of that, it can also give you cash when you need it — either through a refinance or home equity loan.
Fortunately, building equity can be easy. Every month you increase your home equity by making your mortgage payment.
If you want to build your equity even further, there are several ways to do it, including:
- Buying in an up-and-coming market. If home values in your neighborhood start to rise, so will your property value. That can mean more equity, too.
- Increasing your down payment. The more you put down, the less your lender will need to loan you, and the larger your equity stake will be.
- Paying more on your mortgage. Putting extra toward your mortgage loan — either each month or a few times a year — can help you pay down your balance and increase your share. Consider putting your annual tax refund toward your loan to really make a dent.
- Renovating your home. Anything that improves your home’s value also increases your equity. Choose your projects wisely, and reach out if you need some help getting started.
- Refinancing your loan. With a short-term loan, like a 15-year, you can pay down your balance faster (and sometimes get a lower rate as well). This can help you build equity more quickly.
Do you have questions about home equity? Or are you planning to buy or sell property this year? Reach out today.
Must-Have Amenities for a Healthier Home
If your New Year’s resolution is to improve your health and wellness, your home can inspire you to do it. In fact, your living space plays a significant role in your overall well-being.
A room dedicated to workouts can motivate you to reach your goals. And healthy, clean air and elements inspired by nature can make your home feel more open and calming.
Are you hoping to make some improvements in 2021? Check out these five home amenities.
- Air Filtration System: This can improve your air quality by reducing allergens and bacteria. Regular HVAC maintenance can also ensure cleaner air in your home.
- Indoor Garden: Are you planning to focus on your mental health? Adding a calming indoor garden, a Zen garden or even just a few plants can help. Some plants can improve air quality, too, including English ivy and spider plants.
- Home Gym: It could be as simple as adding a treadmill to an empty corner or as elaborate as converting an entire room into a workout area. If you’re tight on space, consider compact fitness equipment, like a yoga mat, resistance bands or free weights.
- Touchless Upgrades: Faucets, light switches, trash cans and door locks are high-contact surfaces. Replacing them with touchless alternatives can help you minimize contact with germs in your home.
- Nonporous Countertops: Certain materials are more porous than others, allowing germs and mildew to be absorbed into the surface. Sealing them or replacing them with a nonporous option, such as quartz, may help you reduce the spread of bacteria in areas like your kitchen and bathrooms.
If your current property doesn’t inspire wellness, get in touch today. Together, we’ll find a home that better fits your goals.
Have you filed for your Property Tax Exemptions?
Have you filed for your Property Tax Exemptions?
If you purchased a house, changed the deed, or refinanced on your mortgage this year, you should make sure the correct exemptions are filed on your home! The Deadline to file exemptions is December 31st. Below is a summary of the rules for Marion and the surrounding counties along with contact information for each county below. Please find your county below and file your homestead and mortgage exemptions. **BE SURE TO GET A RECEIPT OR PROOF IN WRITING THAT ALL EXEMPTIONS HAVE BEEN FILED**
Homestead Deduction – *YOU MUST BE AN OWNER OCCUPANT TO BE ELIGIBLE FOR THIS EXEMPTION* If you own a home or are buying on a recorded contract, and use it as your primary place of residence, your home and up to one acre of land could qualify for a homeowner’s deduction. A taxpayer cannot receive the Homestead Deduction in multiple states as the homestead is considered the “principle place of residence”. The deduction is either 60% of your assessed valuation or a maximum of $45,000.
Mortgage Deduction – If you are buying property on a recorded mortgage or a recorded contract, and you are a resident of the State of Indiana, you could qualify for a mortgage deduction. The value of the deduction may not exceed the amount of the indebtedness. The deduction is either one half of your assessed valuation or $3,000, whichever is less. A person owning more than one property may not receive mortgage deductions totaling more than $3,000.
Marion County
200 E. Washington Street, Suite 801, Indianapolis IN 46204
Phone 317-327-4646 . Fax 317-327-8078
Homestead: https://www.indy.gov/activity/apply-for-a-homestead-deduction
Mortgage: https://www.indy.gov/activity/apply-for-a-mortgage-deduction
Check Status: https://www.indy.gov/activity/search-current-deductions-on-your-property
Johnson County
86 W. Court Street, Franklin IN 46131
Phone 317-346-4310 . Fax 317-736-7021
http://co.johnson.in.us – Click the GIS MAPS picture, find your parcel report, and click appropriate links to file exemptions
Hancock County
111 South American Legion Place, Suite 217, Greenfield IN 46140
Phone 317-477-1105 . Fax 317-477-1712
Email: rlowder@hancockcoingov.org
https://hancockcoingov.org
Hendricks County
355 S Washington Street #202, Danville IN 46122
Phone 317-745-9300
https://www.co.hendricks.in.us
Boone County
201 Courthouse Square, Lebanon IN 46052
Phone 765-482-2940 . Fax 765-483-4434
Email: hmyers@co.boone.in.us
https://boonecounty.in.gov
Home Maintenance to Prep for Winter
Winter is fast approaching, and if you’re a homeowner, that usually means now’s the time to tackle key maintenance tasks — at least if you want to ensure a warm and comfortable season.
There are appliances to check, inspections to complete and exterior tasks to do.
Are you ready for the incoming colder months? Want to make sure your home is too? Here are five steps to take ahead of the winter months.
- Weatherproof your doors and windows. Cracks and gaps can let in cold air. Reseal old caulking and fill in any holes, splits or openings you find.
- Get a roof inspection. Replace any damaged or missing shingles. Also make sure your roof is protected from leaks that could result in moisture- or mold-related problems.
- Tend to your yard. Heavy storms can weigh down branches, causing them to fall on your roof or car. Check that all trees and foliage are cared for and well-trimmed.
- Insulate your attic, pipes and walls. Better insulation can mean lower energy bills and a more comfortable home. Take some time to evaluate yours, and consider adding extra if needed.
- Check the water heater. Make sure your water heater is operating effectively and efficiently. You might also want to flush the system to remove any sediment that may be at the bottom of the tank.
Completing this essential winter maintenance can set your family up for a cozy, relaxing season at home. It’ll also help you identify any potential issues before they have a chance to turn into costly repairs. To learn more home upkeep tips, reach out today.
5 Myths About Selling a Home Right Now
Are you curious about the state of the housing market? Like many homeowners, especially potential sellers, you may be hesitant to make a move because there’s a lot of uncertainty and speculation these days.
But you don’t want to let false assumptions keep you from reaching your goals, now or in the future.
Let’s clear up some common myths about what’s happening in real estate right now and what we’re likely to expect going forward.
- Myth: Buyers are waiting to enter the market.
Record-low mortgage rates mean it’s a great time to purchase a home, and buyers are actively engaging in the market.
- Myth: Fall is the wrong season to sell.
You’ve probably heard that it’s better to list in the spring or summer. But this fall is a seller’s market — and a highly active one at that.
- Myth: Home prices are decreasing.
Nearly every metro region saw price growth this year, with trends outpacing expectations. In fact, historically low mortgage rates could allow people to afford higher-priced homes, encouraging them to buy now.
- Myth: You won’t be able to show your home.
You can show your home safely by following the recommended precautions. Virtual home tours and private showings are also options.
- Myth: The real estate market is going to crash.
It’s a common concern, but what’s happening today is different from the financial crisis of 2008. Experts are optimistic, as the economy remains fundamentally strong. The housing market looks solid for the foreseeable future, and there is no reason to abandon your plans.
It’s easy for the truth about selling to get lost in the shuffle. If you’re curious about what else is happening in real estate, especially our local market, reach out today.
5 Countertops That Are Worth the Upgrade
Updating your kitchen can be a smart way to increase your home’s worth. In fact, Remodeling Magazine named a minor kitchen renovation one of the best projects to take on this year — and upgrading your countertops is a good place to start.
The right countertop can add aesthetic and resale value to your home and improve your space’s functionality.
Which of these five materials do you like best?
Quartz: These countertops are low maintenance and nonporous, meaning they won’t soak up moisture or hold bacteria. Quartz is also quite popular and may attract more buyers to your home when it comes time to sell.
Soapstone: This rare material is trending among home designers. Its unique aesthetic can add effortless style to your space, but it’ll come with a hefty price tag.
Granite: A classic style, granite offers a great look, as well as a scratch- and heat-resistant surface. It’s one of the more expensive countertops, and it needs regular resealing to stay in top condition.
Solid Surface: These countertops are a mixture of manmade materials and resins, making them easy to keep clean. Solid surface comes in all sorts of colors and tends to resemble granite — minus the high cost.
Eco-Friendly: Upcycled wood and recycled glass are two options in this category. The cost will depend on where you source your materials, but you’ll be minimizing your environmental footprint and getting a one-of-a-kind countertop in the process.
Simple cosmetic changes to your kitchen can make a big difference. Get in touch today for more tips on upping the resale value of your home.
Essentials to Keep in Your Emergency Kit
Let’s face it: You can’t predict the future. That’s why having a fully stocked emergency kit is so important. No matter the time of year, it’s always better to play it safe.
Would you and your family be prepared, just in case? Putting essential supplies together doesn’t have to be a chore and can even be done fairly quickly. You just need a list and a plan.
Need ideas? See below for useful items in any situation.
- Communication: Stay connected even if you lose power. Try a hand-crank or battery-powered radio — preferably one with charging ability to keep your devices running.
- Lighting: A flashlight and batteries are a must. Get a few different types, like lanterns, floodlights and keychains. You never know how much light you’ll need or where you’ll need to take it. You can also stash a few candles and some matches.
- Food and Water: Pack at least three days’ worth of water, nonperishable foods and canned goods — and don’t forget the can opener. Think beans, nuts and seeds, protein bars and dried fruit.
- First-Aid Supplies: You’ll want a first-aid kit, complete with bandages, gauze, burn cream, antiseptic, sterile gloves, safety pins and more. Pain relievers and an extra supply of prescription medications are important, too.
- Clothing and Bedding: Every family member will need a few changes of clothes and portable bedding like sleeping bags, blankets and pillows.
- Miscellaneous Items: Cash, personal documents and paper maps might not seem essential now, but they could come in handy. Other nice-to-have items include duct tape, cleaning products and a multitool.
There’s no telling what the future may bring, so it’s important to be prepared for anything. Get in touch today for more home safety tips.
Tips for Choosing the Right Neighborhood
Finding a home that suits you is only part of the journey. Another big part? Choosing the right neighborhood.
The number of bedrooms and square footage are certainly important when buying a home — but the community might be even more vital.
After all, it’s where you’ll likely exercise and socialize, where your kids will grow up and go to school and, ultimately, where you’ll put down roots and build a life.
Are you ready to look for a new home? Here’s how you can find the right neighborhood:
- Know your needs. If walkability is high on your list, make sure the neighborhood offers plenty of paths to explore. Is your commute to work a big factor? How long will it be? What are your thoughts on homeowners associations?
- Do some research. Take some time to look into the community. Check out school district ratings and look at nearby listings to see home values. Reach out to learn what else the community offers.
- Check out online groups. Pull up any neighborhood groups you can find on social media. Does the online community seem friendly? You can also search for a neighborhood newsletter or local events.
- Take a self-guided tour. Drive around the neighborhood at different times of day to get a feel for its character. Can you see yourself living there? If you’re buying from out of town, you can hop on Google Maps and take a virtual walk.
And if you’re ready to take an online tour or see a home in person, get in touch today. Together we’ll find the right home and neighborhood for you.
