Homebuying in 2024 and 2025 November 1, 2024

Tips I Give My Buyers if They Visit Open Houses

Top Tips for my Clients Visiting Open Houses

As your trusted real estate advisor, I want to ensure you make the most of your open house visits. Here are some personalized tips to guide you through the process:

1. Do Your Homework

Before you head out, take a peek at the property online. Check out the listing details, photos, and any virtual tours. This will give you a good idea of what to expect and help you pinpoint areas you want to focus on during your visit.

2. Create a Checklist

Jot down your must-haves and deal-breakers. This list will keep you on track and ensure you don’t miss any important features. Think about things like the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, the kitchen’s condition, and overall layout.

3. Take Notes and Photos

Bring along a notebook and your smartphone to document your visit. Note the property’s condition, any repairs or updates needed, and your overall impressions. Photos can help you remember details and compare homes later.

4. Ask Questions

Don’t hesitate to ask the listing agent questions. Find out about the age of the roof, HVAC system, and appliances. Ask about the neighborhood, schools, and any upcoming developments. The more information you gather, the better your decision will be.

5. Observe the Neighborhood

Take a stroll or drive around the neighborhood. Look for signs of a well-maintained community, like clean streets, well-kept lawns, and friendly neighbors. Consider how close you are to amenities like grocery stores, parks, and public transportation.

6. Check for Red Flags

Keep an eye out for potential issues such as water damage, foundation cracks, or signs of pests. These could mean costly repairs in the future. If you spot anything concerning, it might be worth bringing in a professional inspector for a closer look.

7. Trust Your Instincts

Lastly, trust your gut. If a house feels right and ticks all your boxes, it might be worth pursuing further. On the flip side, if something feels off, don’t ignore that feeling. There are plenty of homes out there, and it’s important to find one that feels just right for you.


Happy house hunting! 🏡✨

 

Newsletter October 17, 2023

Check Your Property Tax Exemptions!

Check your Property Tax Exemption by Your Address.

Homeowner and Senior Exemptions can save you hundreds of dollars a year. 

Prepare Your Home To Sell March 10, 2023

Is Now the Time to Sell Your Property?

https://www.roomvu.com/agent/robin-saichek-1 

While I do have access to up-to-date information on the current real estate market conditions in Chicagoland, I can also provide you with some general guidance on what factors to consider when making a decision to sell your property.

  1. First, my data will help you assess the local real estate market conditions in your immediate area. Factors that can impact the real estate market near you include the economy, the cost of financing (interest rates) and the local housing inventory in your neighborhood or in your condo building.
  2. Second, you’ll need to evaluate your personal circumstances and objectives. Are you looking to sell quickly or are you willing to wait for the right offer? Are you relocating, downsizing or upgrading? Answering these questions can help determine if now is the right time to sell.
  3. And last, as your local real estate, I will provide you with up-to-date market insights and help you make an informed decision based on your specific circumstances.

Overall, the decision to sell your property should be based on a combination of market conditions and your personal circumstances, and it is important to weigh all the factors before making a decision.

Prepare Your Home To Sell February 3, 2023

Improvements That Sell Your Home for More $

Improvements That Sell Your Home for More $

  1. Hardwood floors are a timeless classic. Refinishing them before you sell is a no-brainer. Adding new wood floors if you have none will always bring a great return.
  2. A new garage door or front door will provide a big boost for your curb appeal at a relatively modest cost 
  3. A fresh coat of paint, the same light neutral in every room, improves flow and makes everything seem bigger and more upscale
  4. Service your HVAC. Air quality is top of mind these days, so servicing or replacing your system is timely and cuts utility costs. This will make a home inspection go more smoothly
  5. Declutter declutter declutter. Minimalism is key. If you have vacant rooms, virtual staging helps too.

Find me for all of your real estate needs at coldwellbankerhomes.com/il/chicago/age

@RobinSellsHome

Prepare Your Home To Sell January 12, 2023

Staging Your Home To Sell

10 staging tips in 2023

  1. Clean is more important than staged. Staged homes that are less than immaculate may show well online, in person, lack of cleanliness an instant turnoff. Money spent on staging dirty home will be wasted.
  2. Go big or go home. A few staged rooms or new pieces here and there won’t have the desired impact. Need a consistent design
  3. Start at the curb. For houses and townhomes, don’t forget the front yard, plantings, the walkway to the front door and the front porch area including, house numbers, door décor and mailbox.
  4. Make sure storage areas are not a turnoff. The basement, attic or garage are fair game for storage, just make sure it’s neat and organized. Get rid of clutter in the closets. It will make buyers feel they will outgrow this home shortly.
  5. Use what you have. Consult with myself or a stager on how to use existing items, what to keep and what to remove is invaluable, if you need to get on market quickly as possible.
  6. Use Virtual Staging (attached photos.) If the cost of staging is out of line with your budget or a property is vacant, virtual staging is the best way to help buyers looking online to visualize your property furnished and enticing.
  7. Don’t be afraid to mix styles. A rustic-style home doesn’t require rustic furnishings. Mixing styles attracts a wider audience.
  8. Distinctive elements. Highlight standout features of a home or condo, an unusual kitchen backsplash can make an impression.
  9. Think aspirational. Staging is used to create a buyer’s dream home.
  10. Spend a little money. I have a staging consultation incorporated in my home selling process. I believe so strongly in the value of staging that I guarantee the cost will be recouped. A home is where we live and a stage for the life we will lead there. When it comes to tapping into buyer emotions, staging is a huge marketing advantage.

 

BEFORE VIRTUAL STAGING

AFTER VIRTUAL STAGING

BEFORE VIRTUAL STAGING

AFTER VIRTUAL STAGING