READY FOR A SUMMER MOVE-UP?
Getting Ahead of Spring Moving Season
For a lot of people, this time of year is when the move-up conversations get real. If you want to be in a different house by the time school gets out or early summer, you can’t wait until May to get serious. March is when you start putting in the work. That might mean switching gears from just scrolling Zillow at night to actually reaching out and starting a real plan. Traditionally, households prefer to list in late spring/early summer when school is or is almost out of session making their schedules more flexible and moving conditions more favorable. This is means more homes to choose from but also more buyers to potentially compete with as well. Inventory can move more quickly, situations can become competitive, decisions will need to be made.
got out in front of it. The first real step is typically talking to a lender. Even if you aren’t planning to move until June, it helps to know where you stand, what payment range feels comfortable, and if anything needs to be cleaned up ahead of time. If you’re worried about double payments (rent & mortgage or mortgage & mortgage) negotiating seller paid closing costs, lease-back agreements, appliances/ furniture, and closing/possession dates can help compensate. After that, it pays to start looking earlier than you think. I recently showed homes to buyers who couldn’t move until summer, and we found out a builder was putting up another house that would be finished right when they were ready. Another family almost ruled out a specific neighborhood, but changed their minds once they drove through it. Early scouting like that helps you
sort out neighborhoods, commutes, and other factors before you are under pressure. The last piece is looping your agent in early. Unfortunately, I’ve heard folks tell me out in the field that they don’t want to “bother” their agent. I say, please bother me! I consider it an honor to be the one who gets to talk and support you through your real estate endeavors. Even though I do this day in and day out, I fully realize that these decisions are significant, literally life- altering, which in turn contributes to my tank remaining full, ready to go for you.
The clients who seem the least stressed in that season are usually the ones who
Easy Ways to Make a Small Entryway Shine GREET GUESTS IN STYLE
The entryway to a home can pose challenges for a design-conscious homeowner, from constant clutter to heavy, multipurpose traffic. These transitional spaces in many homes are often cramped and lacking in natural light. Your entryway helps form guests’ first impression of your home, so putting some thought into making the most of the space is worth the effort. Start by adding at least one piece of functional furniture, such as a slim console table or a cushioned bench with baskets or closed cabinets beneath. Try to
avoid stacking shoes and boots by the door if possible. Instead, stow them in baskets or a closed cabinet. Building in upper wall cabinetry can be helpful if space permits. Decorative hooks send a welcoming message to guests looking for a place to hang their coats and bags, and with so many styles, these can look good even when not in use. Floating wall shelves also add storage and free up floor space. Some designers cover an entire wall with hooks and shelves, providing guests a hassle-free space to park their belongings. Select wall art that makes a design statement without overwhelming the space. Hanging a mirror near the door can make your entryway feel more spacious. Adding statement lighting can be an opportunity to express your sense of style. Consider replacing outdated or dim lights with a brighter, more modern fixture. If your
ceilings are high, find a chandelier that suits your preferred style and space. A prominent light fixture can actually make a small space feel larger and taller. And don’t forget the floor! Many homeowners leave their entryway floors bare. But going beyond the customary doormat and adding a rug can better define the space. Choose a rug that’s tightly woven or washable, and extend it to within a few inches of the perimeter of the area. Avoid the assumption that entryway walls should be white. It’s fine to choose a soft, warm wall color, which can add depth to the area. And what entryway space is complete without a colorful door? While colors that pop are popular for door exteriors, extending the color to the interior side is also a trend. Any of these changes can transform a dark, utilitarian entryway into a welcoming, highly functional enhancement of your home.
2 WINDERMEREGROUPONE.COM | 509.420.3999
Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator