chicago real estate Archives - Skyline Newspaper

By Skyline Newspaper December 18, 2017 5 years 560 words

Tips For Hosting an Open House in the Winter

While selling a home in the winter requires more work than selling in the spring or summer, it’s not impossible. However, brokers say that even though the number of homebuyers drops …

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While selling a home in the winter requires more work than selling in the spring or summer, it’s not impossible. However, brokers say that even though the number of homebuyers drops in the winter, those still looking are generally more serious about making a purchase. So luckily for those who want to sell in the winter, competition usually drops as people wait until spring.

If you’re selling and ready to host some winter open houses, here are a few tips to help sellers to ensure you wow your guests, even if the weather isn’t cooperating.

Cold houses don’t sell, so make sure the heat is cranked up to a comfortable temperature. If potential buyers are shivering in your house, they’re most likely not going to feel comfortable and be able to think of it as their potential new home. Now is not the time to cut spending on electricity.

Additionally, if there’s snow, make sure your driveway and sidewalks are shoveled and salted. First of all, you don’t want to inconvenience your guests by making them trek through the snow or slip and slide their way into your house. And secondly, you don’t want anyone slipping and getting hurt. Not only can this cause legal issues but it will most likely deter them from further considering putting an offer on your house.

Another great way to catch the interest of potential buyers is by building a snowman! Seeing as how 32% of buyers are looking for their first home, it’s important to show them what it would be like living in the house themselves. And who doesn’t want to be greeted by a friendly snowman?

While cookies are a popular open house snack, you may want to offer some more winter-related foods. By serving chili, stew, or soup, you’re not only offering your guests a yummy treat, but you’re also giving them a reason to stay longer. And when they stay longer, they might notice additional details or ask more questions. Additionally, hot apple cider or hot chocolate both make excellent beverage choices.

One negative thing about selling in the winter is not being able to show off your yard if it’s covered in snow. Not only does landscaping increase the aesthetics of your property, but you could get an ROI of 150% if you spend as little as 5% of your home’s value on landscaping projects. If your yard is covered in snow, make sure you clearly mark your property lines so visitors can get a sense of the land. And if you get lucky and the climate allows for it, leave outdoor furniture out so potential buyers can get a feel for the outdoor space.

And last but not least, make sure your home has plenty of light throughout. Opening shades and curtains will allow daylight to flood in during the day but will also give off a warm and cozy mood at night. Make sure you find the most flattering hues for your living space and ensure there are no bulbs out.

When planning an open house for the winter, it’s important to remember that you can’t control the weather. So while you may get lucky and have great weather, it’s important to be prepared for whatever mother nature may throw at you.

By Skyline Newspaper December 8, 2017 5 years 588 words

Selling Your Home? How To Add Energy Efficiency Before You Post A Listing

To get the most out of your home sale, you need to make your house worth the price. And in today’s market, that means making it as energy efficient as possible. …

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To get the most out of your home sale, you need to make your house worth the price. And in today’s market, that means making it as energy efficient as possible. When looking at various homes, potential buyers will analyze which options give them the best value. An investment in lower energy bills and a greener future might just be what they are looking for.

“With today’s emphasis on environmental consciousness, energy efficient homes are fetching higher prices on the housing market, and for good reason,” according to energysage. “Green homes are priced at a premium because their energy efficient upgrades offer both reduced utility bills and avoided maintenance expenses.”

So, to hike the price on your home, you will need to put in some initial effort and capital. When making a plan to boost your house’s efficiency, consider these seven steps.

Step 1: Schedule an energy audit.

Before you make any updates to your home, you need to know your starting point. By scheduling a professional energy audit, you can learn where your home is losing energy and where it might be more efficient than you think.

Step 2: Invest in efficient appliances.

While installing entirely new appliances may be an investment up front, it can be worth it once you make your home sale. This is especially true if your refrigerator, washer and dryer, and other systems are out of date. Look into any appliances with Energy Star certification, but your realtor may have more specific suggestions.

Step 3: Replace the windows and doors.

According to the Department of Energy, 45% of the average energy bill goes toward heating. When you upgrade your windows and doors, you can better seal any openings and keep warm air inside. This can also be attractive to buyers, as it requires less maintenance and remodeling on their end.

Step 4: Install new insulation.

Many homeowners forget to update the insulation in their attic, and this can cause air to escape. Hire a professional to assess this potential energy loss and advise a new type of insulation.

Step 5: Upgrade the HVAC systems.

Old heating and air conditioning systems are energy hogs. Since they need to work harder to produce an adequate output, this can spike energy bills significantly. By replacing them, you can ensure that your home is being cooled and heated in a cost-effective manner.

Step 6: Consider solar panels.

Did you know that solar energy is the most abundant resource on the planet? About 173,000 terawatts of solar energy strike the Earth every day. It can also benefit a homeowner’s wallet in a big way. U.S.
federal subsidies credit up to 30% of the unit cost, with each state offing its own perks as well. This makes installation beneficial in the short term for you and in the long term for the future homeowner.

Step 7: Learn how to promote these features.

Once you update your home in whatever way you see fit, be sure to put these features at the center of your listing. Today’s buyers are conscious of energy efficiency, so they may be more likely to visit your home if they see its efficiency.

“When it comes time to sell, your real estate agent can help you market your home as energy efficient,” according to Chicago Tribune . Provide your agent with utility bills or your energy rating, if you received one with your audit, to include when describing the house on a multiple listing service, or MLS.”

Once you do this, you may see an influx of green-minded buyers.