Merlino & Gonzalez - April 2021

From Pricing to Photos, We Break Down a Frustrating Dilemma Is the paint on your FOR SALE sign beginning to flake, while others move their property in a week? If you haven’t had a serious offer in 3–4 weeks, it’s wise to assume there’s something you’ve overlooked ... You’re Asking Too Much Why Isn’t My Home Selling?

Your House Isn’t Presenting Well For your home to sell, it must be eye-catching outside and attractive inside. Make sure the outside of your home looks well maintained. Inside, remember that less furniture makes your home look larger. And get photos taken by an expert photographer who understands real estate to show the house off. Multiple studies have shown that first-rate photos accelerate home sales. You’ve Got the Wrong Pros It’s easy to get taken in by a lackluster realtor. Start by consulting with a firm like ours — we can refer you to many highly professional and effective realtors. Don’t let your house sit for one more day without selling. Call Merlino & Gonzalez at 718- 698-2200 to learn why your house hasn’t sold and what you can do to fix it.

Because your home is meaningful to you — and usually your most valuable asset — it’s easy to think the value is higher than it actually is. Remember, at least 40% of sellers have to lower their price at least once. That’s usually better than to let it sit unsold, which often drives the final price down. Pricing low and letting buyers outbid one another is more effective than pricing too high. Your House Is … Unusual While certain features may add appeal, most buyers are looking for conventionally laid-out homes. That bathroom off the kitchen, tiny attic bedroom, or small pond in the yard may be unappealing to others. But don’t be discouraged — there are options. You might be able to alter an unusual feature to make your home more conventional. On the flip side, it may be a good idea to highlight the atypical aspect of your home to attract some yet discourage others who might be uninterested.

SPRING VEGETABLE AND CHICKEN PASTA BAKE MICHELE’S RECIPE CORNER

Inspired by TheSeasonedMom.com

INGREDIENTS

• 1/2 cup fresh chives, chopped and divided • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped and divided • 2 tsp minced garlic • 1/4 tsp salt • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided 3. Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 35 minutes. 4. Uncover and stir. At this point, check the pasta to make sure it is al dente. If it’s undercooked,

• 1 cup cooked chicken, diced • 1 14-oz can artichokes, drained and quartered • 1 cup fresh asparagus pieces • 1/2 cup carrots, grated • 1 1/2 cups uncooked penne pasta • 1 3/4 cups chicken broth

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 425 F and

grease an 8-inch square baking dish with cooking spray.

Take a Break

2. In the prepared dish, stir together cooked chicken,

cover the dish and return to the oven until pasta is tender.

artichokes, asparagus, carrots, uncooked pasta, chicken broth, half the chives, half the parsley, garlic, salt, and 2 tbsp Parmesan.

5. Remove from oven and garnish with remaining

Parmesan, chives, and parsley.

3

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