Boring to Brilliant ~ Garden Transformation

There is always a project or two going on at our home. The latest was a drab looking garden space in our backyard.

Beginning stages of garden transformation

My husband took care of the brick work and retaining wall. I handled the garden design and planting. I knew that I wanted a simple, English style garden. After scouring our yard for plants I could divide or move, a trip to Miller Nursery, and the relocation of the focal point, the garden started to come together.

Almost done

Done!

The finished garden consist of boxwood, fountain grass, day lilies, and hosta.

For more gardening inspiration, visit my Pinterest gardening board.


For all of your real estate needs ~ call, text, or email Lori Adrianse @ 515-556-0515, Lori.Adrianse@CBDSM.com.

3 instant turn offs to buyers when selling your home

Over the years of selling real estate, I have learned there are clear turn offs to buyers that sellers should address before your home goes on the market.  Taking the time to make these changes could make the difference between selling your home, or lingering on the market.

Curb Appeal

First impressions are critical, and that starts from the time the buyer pulls in the driveway. As in the photo, a dead tree and over grown landscaping are not appealing. A home's interior condition is usually consistent with the home's exterior condition. I have had buyers in my car, and based on the look of the exterior will make a determination as to whether they want to go inside or move on to the next.

Odor

An offensive odor can kill a deal in a matter of seconds. Walking into a home that reeks of smoke, pet odor, or over powering cooking odor is not an invitation to stay and look around. Many of these odors are difficult to remedy and may require professional assistance.

Make Your Home Sparkle

Many times a buyer will overlook the fact that a home needs updating if it is clear that the home has been maintained over the years. One of those indicators is cleanliness. Clean your home from top to bottom (base boards to ceiling fans). The kitchen and baths should sparkle. While you are at it ~ declutter as well!

Here are more issues that turn off buyers.

So, pull up your sleeves, get out your garden rake and cleaning supplies, and get ready to work. In the end it will all be worth the effort. I promise!

For all of your real estate needs ~ call, text, or email Lori Adrianse @ 515-556-0515, Lori.Adrianse@CBDSM.com.





For all of your real estate needs ~ call, text, or email Lori Adrianse @ 515-556-0515, Lori.Adrianse@CBDSM.com.

Light It Up

When we bought our house 7 years ago, one of the first improvements we made was the addition of exterior lighting. I was absolutely amazed at the impact it made on night time curb appeal. The company we used was All American Turf Beauty Nite Time Décor, and the investment was around $2000. As you can see from the photo, it lights up from the ground and on the dormers of this home.

Buyers typically like to drive by a home before taking a look, or if they have already seen it and have some interest they will likely drive by often. So curb appeal is not only important during the day, but at night time as well. This is especially important during the winter months, when it gets dark much earlier. So, light it up, and see your curb appeal soar!

For all of your real estate needs ~ call, text, or email Lori Adrianse @ 515-556-0515, Lori.Adrianse@CBDSM.com. For all of your real estate needs ~ call, text, or email Lori Adrianse @ 515-556-0515, Lori.Adrianse@CBDSM.com.

Real Estate bidding wars in 2013?

Hello pre-2007 real estate market, I’ve missed you! Yes that’s right, looks like we are off to a great start this year. Yesterday I listed a home, after 4 showings we had multiple offers by the evening. Last week another listing produced an accepted offer within 24 hours. So even though very different homes, what did they both have in common (other than an awesome list agent!)? Both homes had been meticulously maintained, clean, and staged well. Most importantly, they were priced at what current market conditions indicated. If you have made recent improvements to your home, it might mean you will not recoup the amount invested. Also, your home may not be worth what you paid. Remember, in the end a home is worth what a buyer is willing to pay, not what you owe or your perceived value.

In the event you are a buyer and interested in a home with multiple offers, if you can afford to, don’t be afraid to offer over list price. For every $1000 on a mortgage, at today’s interest rates it would equate to about $5 additional on your monthly payment. So maybe you skip that latte, or bring your lunch to work once a week. Wouldn’t it be worth it for your dream home?

This home sold this week after only 4 showings.

Perfectly staged living room.

This home sold last week in 24 hours.

For all of your real estate needs ~ call, text, or email Lori Adrianse @ 515-556-0515, Lori.Adrianse@CBDSM.com.


For all of your real estate needs ~ call, text, or email Lori Adrianse @ 515-556-0515, Lori.Adrianse@CBDSM.com.

Ask Your Realtor

 

Don't Sell Your House with a Dead Tree in the Yard!

So, your house is on the market and you have a dead tree (or two!) in the yard, what do you do?

Very simply, have it removed! The exterior of your home is the buyer's first impression, make it a great one.

I recommend Bennett Tree Service Inc., Des Moines, 515-276-5528. I have found their prices to be competitive and work done in a professional manner.

Do you have a real estate question I can answer? Leave a comment! For all of your real estate needs ~ call, text, or email Lori Adrianse @ 515-556-0515, Lori.Adrianse@CBDSM.com.