My New Best Friend ~ The Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pump!

Heat Controller, Inc. Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pump

I now believe in love at first sight. This tiny miracle unit has made our attic one of the most popular spots in our home. Where before it was necessary to use a portable heater in the winter and window air conditioning unit in the summer to make the area somewhat tolerable, the wall mounted heat pump automatically heats or cools to the desired temperature. While this is not an inexpensive solution, it has given us that second living space that we will need moving forward.

As our daughter is fast approaching the teen years, and sleepovers are a regular event, we decided the 3rd floor attic space was a perfect hangout for them. To make it an extra cozy place, we also had super comfy carpet installed.

So, the big event is tonight ~ her first sleep over in the new and improved attic. So we'll hope a movie, popcorn, and a cozy spot get the thumbs up!

Punelli Heating & Air Conditioning installed the unit. Call Tony at 515-284-1426, and tell him Lori sent you.

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.

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.

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.

Love It or List It --- Get A Dumpster!

Whether you are getting your home ready to sell or not planning a move at all, you would certainly benefit by de-cluttering/de-junking your home.

We recently went through the de-junking exercise, having a 10 yard dumpster delivered to our home. Atomic Roll-Off delivered it and the cost was $180. We were able to keep the dumpster for a week, but chose to really motivate ourselves and only have it for 2 days. After the first day we had filled the dumpster maybe 1/4 full and I thought we would be lucky to make it to the halfway mark. Knowing we only had one more day we went into overdrive. Should I or shouldn't I --- if I had to think about it more than a couple of seconds, it went into the dumpster. As you can see from the photo, we made it way past halfway, in fact it was full! 

Three trips to donate items to the thrift store benefiting Animal Lifeline of Iowa occurred during the two days as well.

So, go through that attic, crawl space, closets, basement, and donate or pitch those things you just don't need or use. It will be like a load has been lifted off your shoulders --- I promise!

Great idea --- if you can't fill a dumpster on your own, or think the cost is a bit steep, share with your neighbor.

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

For Your Pinterest Only

Are you addicted to Pinterest? Me too! I am amazed at the information available. Most of my “boards” are home related. For instance: home improvement, decorating, DIY projects, cooking, gardening, local attractions. Some of my favorite recently prepared meals are recipes from Pinterest. I’ve also attempted several DIY projects and posted several of mine own as well.

I would love for you to Follow me on Pinterest. I"ll check your boards as well, and we can share ideas. For all of your real estate needs ~ call, text, or email Lori Adrianse @ 515-556-0515, Lori.Adrianse@CBDSM.com.

Ask Your Realtor; How Important Is Home Maintenance?

Recently I met with a couple who bought their first home 5 years ago. Now that their family has grown it is time for a larger home. In the time they have owned the home improvements have been limited to interior painting. Mechanicals, appliances, roof, are now in the 15+ age range. In addition, the many minor items identified in the home inspection when they purchased the home have not been addressed. The problem; a potential buyer will see nothing but dollar signs as they consider this home with potential upgrades necessary in the near future.

Dining room wainscoting adds "wow factor".

My advice - when you purchase a home, plan on making one improvement a year and certainly correct any required repairs when necessary. The inspection report you receive when purchasing a home could be used as a checklist of repairs over time.

My husband and I have been in our current home for about 6 years. Over that time we have made maintenance and cosmetic improvements. For instance, although our furnace and a/c were only 17 years old and working fine, we took advantage of the incredible tax credits available last year and replaced with high efficient units. My husband has recently taken on some home DIY projects like brick patio with built-in grill, bar, and fire pit. His most recent project was installing wainscoting in our dining room.

So, enjoy your home, but also show a level of care that the next buyer will appreciate and value. For all of your real estate needs ~ call, text, or email Lori Adrianse @ 515-556-0515, Lori.Adrianse@CBDSM.com.