Jeff Cook Real Estate BlogRecently posted or modified blog posts by tag - Home Interior https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/Copyright JeffCookRealEstate.com2023-03-30T13:20:02-07:00tag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:140536 Ways to Care for Your HouseplantsHappy houseplants add an atmosphere of life and vigor to your home. But how many times have you fallen in love with a plant at the store, only to watch it die a slow and painful death in your home? When bringing a bit of nature into your home, it pays to remember that most every plant has several basic needs.
Jeff Cook Real Estate routinely offers real estate tips for buying and selling a home, but we also like to help improve your life wherever you live. Here’s six ways to care for your houseplants that will help your plants live their best life — and contribute materially to yours.
Provide the Best Light
Everyone knows that plants need sunlight to perform vital functions. But <a href="https://www.npr.org/2020/06/02/867887979/why-does-my-plant-look-sad-6-tips-for-raising-happy-houseplants">the right kind of light</a>, and the right amount, are essential. Common real estate tips will recommend placing plants near sources of natural light and turning them every few days so each part of the plant receives adequate sunlight.
South-facing windows tend to get the most natural sunlight. Be careful not to place plants in direct sunlight. Most houseplants will thrive with medium indirect natural light or even low light. For specialty plants, you may wish to consult with an experienced gardener.
Provide Adequate Care for Roots
Keep an eye on the roots of your houseplants. Keeping them moist but not soaking wet will prevent root rot. Pull out your plant periodically when the soil is dry and examine the roots. If they seem bunched together, growing around the pot or pushing out the pot’s drain holes, it’s time to move the plant to a larger pot with more room.
You may also want to prune the plant at this time, ridding it of any dead leaves or growth. Large plants can often be separated at the roots to make additional plants for repotting. Some plants adjust to this better at certain times of the year. Consult with a local gardener or plant specialist for your particular houseplants.
Provide Just Enough Water
Enough is enough when it comes to how much water your houseplants need. Most real estate tips say you should add water when the soil is dry for about an inch to two inches into the pot. Water all around until just a trickle is visible at the pot’s drain holes. Then put your watering can away and leave it alone. Over watering is just as bad as a lack of water. Check your houseplants every two or three days for soil moisture and only water when the above guideline is true.
Provide Extra Nutrients
Houseplants can use some occasional fertilizing, but as with water, don’t overdo it. Spring and summer are the typical seasons for plants to experience growth spurts, so a little extra nutrients are warranted. Choose a light fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. An equal distribution will see a proportionate growth of both green leaves and flowers.
Provide Enough Space
Not only do your plants need adequate space in their own pot, but they need <a href="https://www.bhg.com/gardening/houseplants/care/houseplant-care-guide/">room around the pot</a> for adequate air and light. Avoid crowding many plants together in a sunroom or bright spot of a room. Sparingly spread your houseplants around in many rooms. This adds life to other areas of your home and allows the plants to grow freely without competing for space.
Provide Occasional Baths
Houseplants get dusty, too. Dust your plants with a soft cloth or rinse the leaves periodically during watering. A coating of dust prevents the plants from absorbing enough sunlight; not to mention it makes your plants look old and dirty. Clean, healthy plants are attractive and add life and color to your home.
Want more real estate tips for how to care for your home or learn more about buying and selling real estate in South Carolina? <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/">Follow the Jeff Cook Real Estate blog</a> for regular updates. 2022-07-30T07:37:00-07:002022-07-13T06:54:33-07:00Lee Willeytag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:12726Spring Refresh: Top Storage Organization TipsAnnual spring cleaning is said to have come about due to the need to eliminate the soot and grime left over from winter from whale oil lamps or kerosene, which require coal or wood. The warmer weather that arrives with the season brings the opportunity to open up windows, air out the house, and let the soot out.
But spring isn’t just a great time to tackle all those major spring cleaning chores, it’s the perfect time to declutter your home and get more organized with these storage organization tips.
Start By Eliminating Clutter One Space at a Time
When you have an entire house to declutter and organize all at once, it can feel so overwhelming that it never gets done. Instead, start small by decluttering one space at a time, whether it’s a room, a closet, or just one door.
Commit to just 15 minutes a day if you need to, perhaps going by the rule that anything you haven’t used for more than a year should be tossed, donated, or sold.
Buy Furniture That Can Double As Storage
If you’ve got limited space, taking advantage of furniture that has built-in storage. For example, a storage bench that has a cushion on top can be the perfect place to sit or to place tired feet on. The space below can be used for extra pillows and blankets, games, toys, craft supplies, books, or anything else you want to store rather than display.
Pull-Down Racks Beneath Kitchen Cabinets
With so many spices, condiments, cookware, dishware and everything else you need in your kitchen, staying organized in this room can be challenging. Installing pull-down racks beneath cabinets is a great way to hold essentials while keeping them organized and easy to find. When you’re finished cooking, they simply swing up against the underside of the cabinet.
Storing Seasonal Clothing in Suitcases
Many people have multiple suitcases lying around that rarely get used. If you’re one of them, take advantage of that empty space inside to store your seasonal clothing. If you roll items like sweaters shirts, and pants into loose bundles, they’ll take up less room.
Closet Storage and Organization
Organizing your closet by season, color, or in any way that’s more efficient for your life can make it a lot easier to figure out what to wear every morning. But you’ll also want to maximize all your closet space, including vertical hanging space.
As most clothing doesn’t stretch all the way down to the floor when it’s hanging on the rod, install rows of rods on top of each other which doubles your hanging space. Place one as high as possible and then install another one underneath where clothes that are on the top rod end.
Instead of using floor space for your shoes, hang a shoe rack over the closet door so that you can find them more easily. You can also use valet hooks to hang clothes you plan to wear the next day or for accessories like belts, scarves, and purses.
Containers
Containers are an obvious answer for organized storage, but when you buy choose square options. Square containers are generally sturdier and can also be stacked to save space. To make it easier to find what you need, go for clear rather than opaque so that items will be visible.2022-01-30T08:20:00-07:002023-03-30T13:20:02-07:00Megan Garrelltag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:10149How to Make the Most of Your Home Office <img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1451/image/home_office_set_up_.jpg" width="1200" height="800" />
When we work from home having a place or space we can work in comfort while not diminishing our focus can be a challenge. For that reason, here is a short post for those working during the quarantine from home to help them max out their home office space.
Remove Unnecessary Objects
Working in a cluttered home is the first thing that needs to be resolved. Clutter is environmental noise and your environment is a reflection of what is going on in your mind. They bounce off one another, so if you want a home office where you can concentrate, optimize productivity, you need a home office that is clean, <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/top-5-organization-tips-for-your-home/" target="_blank">organized</a> and relaxing.
To that end, remove objects that don't need to be in that room. You don't have to put them far. You can simply stash them away in cupboards, drawers, or storage boxes just for the duration of the quarantine so they are within easy reach. Getting rid of clutter is actually a destressing activity and will help you feel better. It may even spur you on to clean other areas.
Shape Home Office Layout
For an efficient layout that makes effective usage of limited space and offers peace of mind in your home office, keep bulky furniture and devices _behind_ you. Unless you need the TV for work, keep that to your back as well. Even if you like background noise, keep it behind you. Objects can be distracting as it gives you something to look at and that takes attention away from what you're needing to do.
With furniture, unless you need books or files in easy reach, remove it from the room. All you really need is somewhere comfy to sit for a long while with the tools you need to commit to your work. If you need to put a pile of books down within easy reach, get a small table and put that next to your workstation but make sure t is decluttered first. Minimal movement and restricted visual contact with other objects will help keep you on task.
Making The Best Of A Cramped Situation
If you live in a small house or with others, the best way to make a home office is to keep it mobile. That will require observation and active, daily cleaning on your part and you may even find yourself having to clean and tidy up after others. This way you can make an office where you can get the most peace and quiet to maximize your productivity. It may not be ideal, but try to follow the suggestions above. You don't need to go to great efforts; just try and reduce as many distractions as possible.
Life in quarantine is not easy, but consider that it is going to be long term. This will give you plenty of time to play around with your house and furniture to create a suitable office in your home allowing you to work from home with more ease. Put the effort in now and it will pay off later.2021-03-08T06:45:00-07:002022-09-27T04:58:53-07:00Megan Garrelltag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:7022Mid-Century Modern Décor Ideas for Your HomeGuest Blogger: Talia Spero
<a href="https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/midcentury-modern-decor-basics-that-every-beginner-should-know">Mid-century modern décor</a> is catching the eye of homeowners once again. The colorful sofas and Danish sideboards are gaining popularity, as we realize the style may have never left the design sphere after all. There are many <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/top-5-property-problems-that-may-leave-your-home-unsellable/">problems that can render your home unsellable</a>, but updating your décor is a great way to become a popular stop on the home buyer's journey of home showings.
This <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/2020-home-design-trends/">home design trend</a> features clean lines, sleek structure, and inspiring bright colors that interior decorators could never get sick of. The key to executing the proper mix of history and modern – incorporating comfort and beauty – is realizing that this style is based on simplicity, creative use of materials, and an artistic and close connection to nature.
Less is More
You can incorporate mid-century design elements into your home by following the “less is more” concept. By adding thoughtfully and subtly crafted pieces, like marble-topped tables and molded Eames chairs to living rooms dining rooms, or tea rooms, you’ll present a contemporary and classic style that is straight out of the 1950s.
Find a focal point
In a modern style room, there should be one focal point. Choose a piece to highlight such as a chair, painting, or lamp. Better yet, a striking chandelier is a perfect focal point and it can be complemented by simple and sleek furniture. Remember to allow your walls to also be neutral in color and décor unless you have chosen them to be your focal point (Another great idea!)
Embrace texture and pattern
When designing your mid-century modern room, play with texture and pattern, and don’t be shy about mixing elements that you normally wouldn’t picture together. Think of the flooring, furniture, décor pieces, and lighting structures as layers of a canvas that you are arranging creatively and freely.
Shop for new mid-century modern design
With an increased demand for <a href="https://www.allmodern.com/the-style-shops/cat/mid-century-c1858766.html">mid-century modern pieces</a> comes new designers offering period-inspiring products. If you can’t find the vintage sofa, table, or clock you’re looking for at thrift stores, turn to the internet for new versions of something similar (it may be even more customized to what you’re looking for.)
As you go from room to room in your home, making changes and bringing out the mid-century modern design in, be sure to not overcrowd. Give each piece space to shine and stand out. Enjoy your new and improved mid-century modern home! 2019-11-07T07:25:00-07:002021-01-22T12:38:57-07:00Thomas "Jeff" Cooktag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:6072Entryway Inspiration: Fresh New IdeasGuest Blogger: Talia Spero
Make a <a href="https://homedesignlover.com/interior-design/inviting-entryway-tips/">welcoming entryway </a>to your home with stylish accessories or a bold color palette to enhance your front entry’s style.
A fresh and stylish entryway is one of many <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/2020-home-design-trends/">popular home design trends</a> that will allow guests to feel welcome and right at home. Giving your front entry walk way doesn’t have to cost money or require a lot of work; these tips will help you decide the best route to take to give your entry a boost and increase your curb appeal – for an open house or your own pleasure!
Style Made Simple
A simple yet stylish touch to your entryway is adding unique house number stickers. Whether you want to add brushed-metal numbers for a contemporary accent or crisp white house numbers for a traditional touch, they are all easy to apply – just peel, stick, and enjoy.
Classic Charm
A mahogany door with matching molding sets a timeless tone, and a do-it-yourself address plaque features self-adhesive letters and numbers for your full address to be on display in front of your home. It can be matched to the overall tone of your house with the background and frame color.
Add Greenery
A fresh finish can definitely be achieved by adding evergreens and shrubs into planters. Add visual interest by varying their heights and type of plants. An entryway garden – even when they are in individual planters – adds a fresh appeal to any entryway.
Refresh a classic entry
A few <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/5-diy-projects-to-tackle-this-weekend/">DIY projects</a> can completely change a space like a fresh coat of paint does. Instead of the expected red door, try orange or blue for a vibrant and fun look.
Customize accessories
Not willing to go as far as a colorful door? Forgo a traditional doormat for a colorful round rug that’s suitable for the outdoors. PVC planters can be painted to complement your color palette, plus they are maintenance-free and easy to move around to different areas. A different and stylish door handle will also attract your guests.
2019-10-28T06:27:00-07:002021-01-22T12:18:42-07:00Cory Towlertag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:5947Increase the Value of Your Property with These Design IdeasAre you planning to <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/scrambling-to-sell/">sell your home</a>? If that’s the case, you probably want to get your money’s worth or even more. This is a perfectly logical idea that’s more than possible – if you take the time to do a little design makeover. Certain features and design elements may seem costly upfront, but they can pay off considerably once you put your home on the market. In case you’re interested in boosting your home’s resale value, consider the following projects.
Update Your Kitchen
Kitchens are one of the most important rooms in one’s home, especially when it comes to selling it. After all, no one wants to deal with small or outdated kitchens when they move in. In that respect, repainting or replacing the cabinets and other elements as well as creating some functionality in the layout is the best way to go. It’s essential that you don’t go overboard, though. Keep in mind that your kitchen should match the overall look and feel of the rest of the home. An open floor plan or a kitchen island are proper investments but turning this area into a huge restaurant kitchen is not.
Go with Energy-Efficient Appliances
If you want a big and proper change for your kitchen, focus your attention and investment to energy-efficient appliances. Of course, there are appliances outside the kitchen and these should be considered, too, but most of the appliances are located in the kitchen and can waste a lot of energy if not star-rated. In that respect, you should replace your old appliances with new ones that actually contribute to the sustainability of the home.
Remodel Your Bathroom
Every bit as important as your kitchen, the bathroom should be next on your redesign list. In general, <a data-cke-saved-href="https://betterthathome.com/spa-like-bathroom-designs/" href="https://betterthathome.com/spa-like-bathroom-designs/" rel="nofollow">spa-like design</a> is very popular at the moment, with no tub showers and free-standing tubs. However, if you don’t have the room or the means for such a redesign project, you can make a difference with other projects. Replace broken tiles with new ones. Repaint your bathroom as well. Light blue and green shades, white, grey as well as some earthy tones are very effective for a clean bathroom look. Replace the toilet and the shower battery. Also, add storage room. If there’s no space for cabinets, consider installing floating shelves.
Reinvent a Room
In order to differentiate your property from the rest on the market, you need something interesting. Since it’s important to provide all the essentials in a home and remain relatively neutral, the best way to spruce up your place is to reinvent a room. After all, adding a new room is not the best investment to turn to. Instead, unused space such as basement, attic or any extra room in your home can be transformed into something new and more attractive to potential buyers. If your property is on the smaller side, this can be an extra bedroom. But it can also be a library, an entertainment room, kids’ playground, etc.
Paint and Decorations
It’s true that you should stick to the neutral look when selling your property. In that respect, it would be best to opt for neutral paint when giving a fresh coat to your interior. However, it always fares better when there’s something more unique to the whole environment without the actual clutter or vibrant shades. In that respect, don’t hesitate to check your options when it comes to decorative moldings, skirtings, mantelpieces, shelf fronts, etc.
Add a Deck
Interior is very important for increasing your home’s value but don’t forget the exterior either. Specifically, the yard area where the future owners will be able to rest and enjoy themselves. A proper deck area can boost the resale value of the property considerably and for a good reason. After all, what’s the point of having a yard, your own natural oasis, if you can’t enjoy it properly? If you’re handy and have some skills in this department, you can earn plenty by adding a deck on your own. Still, even if you hire a professional to build a deck for you, you can expect a great return of investment.
Replace Doors and Windows
This isn’t always necessary, but don’t disregard this particular project just yet. Even though your doors and windows may be perfectly fine, consider whether new, fancier alternatives could drastically change the overall look of your home. The truth is this often is the case. Better quality wood and more intricate design of the doors feel luxurious. Furthermore, <a data-cke-saved-href="https://maghulldoubleglazing.com/10-benefits-of-double-glazing/" href="https://maghulldoubleglazing.com/10-benefits-of-double-glazing/" rel="nofollow">double-glazed windows</a> are a must if you don’t already have these installed. These improve the insulation properties of your home thus upping its price.
Keep in mind that design practices meant for boosting your home’s resale value should never be personal – or at least not too personal. You never know what the potential buyer might like, which is precisely why you should stick to the timeless trends like <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/mid-century-modern-dcor-ideas-for-your-home/">Mid-Century Modern Design</a>. 2019-09-16T11:28:00-07:002021-01-22T10:56:57-07:00Cory Towlertag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:6011Decor Styles That are Proven to Attract Buyers to Your House for SaleStaging a home has a lot to do with how fast it will sell. It also affects the price of your property, and decorating your home strategically is a proven way to get the potential buyers to seal the deal much quicker. Home staging is very much like designing a stage for play – everything is well-thought-out, carefully placed, and strategically arranged. The question is – how do you set the stage for a fast and lucrative sale? Let’s take a look at the list of decor styles that will get your property picture-perfect and help you get the best price.
Make a great first impression – start with the exterior
With first impressions becoming make or break, it’s getting increasingly difficult for homeowners looking to sell their homes to get their buyers’ attention. By simply taking a glance at the house’s exterior, buyers can predict what the interior is like. Therefore, maintaining an appealing exterior is just as important as keeping the inside of your house spotless. Landscaping plays an important role in buyers’ perception of your home, so be sure to tackle minor upgrades in the area surrounding your home, and consider making smaller updates for a well maintained, cared-for appearance. Swipe your front porch, prune your shrubs, and take some time to dress up your lawn to make the outdoor space appear spick-and-span. Get a new mailbox, paint the old, dreary-looking fence, and as the perfect finishing touch – paint your front door with a playful color to make it pop.
Play it safe – stick with a neutral color scheme
A little paint goes a long way, and even by simply<a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/tips-on-painting-your-homes-interior/"> treating your walls to a fresh coat of paint</a> you can easily change the look of your interiors and create the perfect backdrop for your furnishings. However, selling your home isn’t exactly the time to go crazy with the paint and use all the colors of the rainbow. According to professional home stylists, it’s best to keep your color palette simple and neutral. Whites, off-whites, and grays are the perfect shades for homeowners looking to appeal to a wide range of buyers. The reason for this lies in the fact that buyers are generally drawn to spaces they can visualize themselves living in and your job is to create a story for your home by using hues that will tie the place together, uniting all the rooms into a cohesive whole.
Picture-perfect – use effective photographs on your online listing
Presenting your property in all its glory should be high on your priority list. However, making your home look impressive on your online listing isn’t so easy. We live in the digital age, the time when all it takes is some short scanning to decide whether we’re interested, and the first few seconds’ viewing can mean deal or no deal. Think about how you can create a digital representation of your property that will attract the buyers. Roll out <a data-cke-saved-href="https://missamara.com.au/" href="https://missamara.com.au/" rel="nofollow">cozy floor rugs</a> to conjure up an image of fun family nights, and include fluffy pillows for an added feeling of comfort. Hang interesting artwork to enhance the visual interest of your living space and add plants to make it feel lively. It’s all about making your living space look charming and inviting, and sometimes that’s all it takes to make the buyers want to see more.
Kitchen and bathroom – the two rooms that deserve more attention
Not all rooms are created equal, and while there are spaces around the house to invest in, you must be wise with where you choose to save, and what you decide to splurge on. Unsurprisingly, kitchens and bathrooms are rooms that are given special attention when preparing a home for sale. But why, you might ask, should we focus on improving these two rooms in particular? It’s simple – they’re two home upgrades that return the most at resale. However, improving these two rooms doesn’t always require spending a fortune and going as far as a full kitchen and bathroom renovations. Simply <a data-cke-saved-href="https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/decorating-ideas/tips/a26156/cheap-kitchen-updates/" href="https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/decorating-ideas/tips/a26156/cheap-kitchen-updates/" rel="nofollow">bring them up to scratch</a>, polish to perfection and you’re good to go. Scruffy kitchen cabinetry? Respray it and replace old handles. Dated bathroom fixtures? Swap your old showerhead for a rain shower. Sometimes, even the simplest of changes can make all the difference.
Establish an emotional connection – add homely details
Before you put your home up for sale, there is one more thing left to do, and that is – make it feel like home. Although putting your home on the market means depersonalizing your living space, going overboard can make your house feel cold and sterile. To avoid the clinical look, be sure to add a vase of fresh flowers here and there and add a couple of throw pillows and a blanket to make it look livable. Add a couple of white, fluffy towels in the bathroom, and set the table with a centerpiece to give an impression of warmth and create a space that looks cozy and welcoming.
<br />Ensuring a quick and profitable sale is no easy task, but with a few interior design styling tricks up your sleeve, you’re sure to present your house in from all its best angles without even hiring a professional home stylist. Use the tips above to turn your home into an awe-inspiring property and <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/scrambling-to-sell/">see how quickly you can sell your home</a>.
About the author: Lilly Miller is a Sydney-based graphic designer and a passionate writer. Loves everything about home decor, art history and baking. Shares home with two loving dogs and a gecko named Rodney. You can find her on <a data-cke-saved-href="https://twitter.com/heyoitslilly?lang=en" href="https://twitter.com/heyoitslilly?lang=en" rel="nofollow">Twitter</a>.
“Poetry creates the myth, the prose writer draws his own portrait.”
- Jean - Paul Sartre2019-08-05T07:23:00-07:002021-01-21T14:39:11-07:00Cory Towlertag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:59536 Simple House Renovations That Will Attract BuyersEverybody wants to sell their house for the best price possible and under the best possible conditions. But it's also important for the house to be well-preserved when you sell so that avoid any potential problems with the buyers later on. Last but not least - you also need to find a way to attract buyers in the first place. So, which simple house renovations will do all of that?
1. Improve the entryway
This is the first thing a buyer sees when they approach the house. It says a lot about what they will see inside. So, simple tricks will definitely make a good impression, including repainting the front door and mowing the lawn. A nice welcome mat and a couple of carefully placed light fixtures will make the front porch inviting. Add a couple of potted plants around and you'll have a simple, yet <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/entryway-inspiration-fresh-new-ideas/">sweet-looking entryway</a>. Optionally, you can always decorate the whole front yard to really create a wow-effect.
2. Replace the floors
The floors are one of the first things that a buyer notices when they enter a house. Replacing them would be a great investment as it will instantly raise the value of the house. You could opt for hardwood flooring or tile. On the other hand, high-quality carpeting will also do the trick.
You don't have to spend a lot of money on this improvement. Some materials look really attractive even though they were really cheap to buy. Also, if you tear out the old flooring by yourself, that will save you some extra money.
3. The roof
A quality roof is something that a well-trained eye will spot in a second. So, make sure all the broken tiles and shingles are repaired or replaced, and the rest of them are put back into their places. The roof needs to be thoroughly inspected for any leaks. Otherwise, the leaks could cause serious damage up in the attic. The gutters need to be secured and cleaned.
Be careful - many homeowners forget about their own safety when doing roof maintenance. They don't consult companies like Universal Mobile Tower Hire, which provides them with a mobile platform that prevents you from falling down while cleaning the gutters.
4. The kitchen
Being the heart of every home, a kitchen leaves a big impression on any buyer. If possible, the kitchen should be positioned in the center of the home so that everybody can easily gather around it.
Enough storage space is very important, so make sure you have room for oddly-shaped objects like serving platter and chopping boards. The look of cupboards and drawers is important - you don't have to replace them completely, but a fresh coat of paint, a new handle or a knob will update the whole item. Also, make sure that they are all functional. If possible, install the overhead cabinets to the ceiling so that there's no need to dust the upper surface. In case you want to add an additional surface, a butler's pantry would amaze the buyers.
5. The bathroom
Another important room in your home. It needs to look clean, well-maintained, and modern. Fix the leaks and add a new layer of paint, making sure there are <a data-cke-saved-href="https://www.health.com/allergy/mold-test-smell-signs" href="https://www.health.com/allergy/mold-test-smell-signs" rel="nofollow">no signs of mold</a>. A big and well-lit mirror will come in handy, as well as high-level storage for towels and hygiene products. Another smart investment would be heated towel rails, especially if it's a family home. They will prevent damp towels from becoming smelly, especially when there are a couple of family members.
6. The inner walls
Walls are what make a room, so make sure they are not outdated and dirty. A fresh layer of paint doesn't cost a lot but it does wonders for a room. You don't know what kind of buyer you'll come across, so don't go for bold colors. Instead, stick with the neutral ones, like beige, light grey or egg white. They open up space and are easily combined with everything else in the room.
Final comment
A couple of these home improvements will definitely make sure your home is safe and modern. The more time you invest in the improvements, the easier you will <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/scrambling-to-sell/">sell your house</a>, and at the better price as well.2019-06-24T11:53:00-07:002022-02-09T06:47:48-07:00Jeff Cooktag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:5966Tips You Must Know When Staging Your HomeOnce the decision has been made that you will be putting your home on the market to sell, it’s time to stage. Staging is a very important part of the home selling process, as it warrants you to put your beloved home on display for others to picture it as their own. Like selling anything in life, it’s important to pitch your most polished product to the public, to convey its full value. Think of potential buyers as consumers on the market for their next best purchase. They will be examining every crevice of your home, in an attempt to envision it as the place where they’d like to invest the next stage of their life. A major caveat of selling your home is that some buyers may not like your style, or may not prefer an element of your home that you love. Don’t take it personally. In most cases it’s better for the seller to not be present during the open house, to avoid any uncomfortable situations. As a seller, you want your home to look the best it can during open houses. Here are some helpful home staging tips that can assist you during the process of staging your home!
First and foremost, remove your home’s clutter! Nobody wants to walk into a house that has another family’s items scattered all about. Remove all miscellaneous items from your home’s openly visible areas. Make sure that clothes are put away in all bedrooms and that beds are nicely made as well. Just doing this alone can make your home look tidier, but it’s definitely not all you should do.
Next, clean, clean, clean! You want to make sure that your home looks spotless when a potential buyer enters it. First impressions are lasting impressions, so if a buyer walks into a dirty home, he or she will likely have a negative first impression, that may impact their entire perception of your house. Walking into a clean house, that smells fresh can give your home bonus points, showing the buyer that you’re a seller who is truly motivated to sell.
Third, make an open concept feel. Regardless of the structural layout of your home, arranging your furniture in an open layout design can work wonders on the aesthetic of your home. Make room for buyers to freely walk throughout your home, without having any blockades of furniture. This can allow buyers to visualize the space with their own twist, allowing it to feel more like their own. If you have any furniture that doesn’t fit well in your home, it is probably best to remove it during the staging process, so that the area looks larger.
Depending on your home’s color scheme, it can be a good idea to consider painting over any bright colored walls that may throw off the potential buyer’s perception of your home. Creating a neutral coloring throughout your home is best for staging, as buyers can then choose to visualize their own color scheme, rather than having to imagine the home without yours.
Make repairs! If there are any minor updates or repairs you can make to create a more visually pleasing setting, you should do so. Although your home’s impurities may not stand out to you so much, they will stand out to a buyer. Any quick updates you can make will serve you better and will show the buyer that you keep up with your home’s maintenance.
Before the open house, it is important to create a light and airy setting in your home. This can be done by opening your blinds and leaving all lights on in your home on for the showing. You can also purchase a few potted plants or flower arrangements to display throughout the home to create the perfect welcoming atmosphere. The best way to prepare your home is to act as a buyer yourself. Once you have taken the previously stated measures to stage your home, allow yourself to take a walk through the home, acting as a critical buyer. This can help you make any other adjustments that may assist a buyer in viewing your home as their perfect new home!2019-02-28T14:02:00-07:002020-12-18T11:25:01-07:00Cory Towlertag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:6001Decorating Your Home on a Budget Most of the time it is hard to get inspired. We get in a funk and have a hard time visually planning what our dream home should look like. That’s why we all need inspiration for decorating. But, making time to look for what appeals to our interests, or is eye-catching, isn’t always the trick when it comes to decorating our home.
I bet you have the same issues that most homeowners do when it comes to creating a more functional way of living. There is always the constant battle of where to get the right kind of inspiration.
Of course, there is always Pinterest. It has an overabundance of inspiring, aesthetic photos of beautifully decorated rooms and organized living space. Oh, how amazing it would be if MY home could be that wonderfully laid out.
But, as much as we want our homes to look “Pinterest Perfect” we have to face reality and try to make it work with what we already have.
For most, it isn’t easy to throw everything out and redecorate. I know most budgets don’t allow homeowners to redecorate hardly ever. Even though most crave the beautiful kitchen or family room, there is a way to stay inspired and keep pushing towards your end goal without starting from scratch.
Instead of pushing the budget or taking out a line of credit so you can have those awesome sofas you want, wait…take a step back.<a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/5-diy-projects-to-tackle-this-weekend/"> Little touches over time</a> can go a long way.
Shop your home!
This is usually the first step in decorating your own home. Look around your home and see if you can repurpose furniture, or if you have some accessories that you can use in a different place or for a different purpose. Use books as décor accents, recover throw pillows, switch up your lampshades. The options are endless!
Simply…paint!
Never underestimate the power of a<a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/tips-on-painting-your-homes-interior/"> fresh coat of paint</a>. Paint old chairs, dressers, cupboards, mantels, or even a wall. This s a super affordable way to get a big update and get inspired.
DIY Art
Pieces of art always tend to be very expensive. So, try saving money by <a href="https://www.hgtv.com/design/design-blog/design/have-a-big-space-to-fill-on-your-wall--7-diy-art-projects-to-try">creating your own pieces</a>! Simply picking out a favorite frame and printing out your favorite design can create a perfect art piece for any room. <br />Thrift Shop!
There is no shame in your game when finding what treasures you can find at your local thrift store. Sometimes you can score with great pieces that are perfect just the way they are, and sometimes you need to get a little creative with what you find! Either way, thrift shopping can be a great way to find pieces you wouldn’t normally see in stores.
By completely some simple steps, homeowners can collect, create, or recover pieces to create their very own “Pinterest Perfect” home.
And, remember, it is a process. It will all eventually come together as long as you keep an optimistic attitude.
“Focus on Improvement, Not Perfection”2018-07-05T07:15:00-07:002021-08-30T12:32:43-07:00Thomas "Jeff" Cooktag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:60093 Components of a Dream Kitchen So you’ve got your dream home, but now it’s time to design your dream kitchen. Whether you have a large family, or you live alone and simply like to entertain, you know that they say “The kitchen is the heart of the home” for a good reason. So here are a few tips to help you design the kitchen of your dreams, no matter what your budget may be.
1. Consider style AND function.
Sure, <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/paint-colors-that-can-brighten-up-your-home-and-your-mood/">picking out paint colors</a> and finishes is fun. But think about what would make your life more comfortable in the kitchen. Love to cook, host dinner parties, or feed a big family? Double ovens are right up your alley. <a href="https://fantasticservicesgroup.com.au/blog/how-to-clean-a-kitchen/" target="_blank">Hate the cleanup?</a> Check out dual-drawer dishwashers
2. Open up your floorplan.
Think about how you move in the space and interact with others. Do you want to be able to chat with your family or hold conversations with your friends while you’re prepping, cooking, or cleaning? Do you want a statement kitchen island offering that casual dining element? That’s what an open concept kitchen is all about! And spending a little more on a kitchen redesign to attain it is something you’ll never regret.
3. Storage, storage, storage.
Being able to access what you need in your kitchen easily is crucial. So making sure everything has its place is just as important. And get creative with your storage. Consider open shelving if you have nice dishware you’d like to show off that works with your color scheme. Think about things like shelving for cookbooks, or a cute wine or spice rack. <br /> <br />There you have it! Your kitchen isn’t just a place where you cook or dine—it’s a place in which laughs are heard, and memories are created. So take these tips home with you and add this to<a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/5-diy-projects-to-tackle-this-weekend/"> your weekend DIY project list</a>, or let the pros at Jeff Cook find you a home with your dream kitchen!2018-06-14T07:29:00-07:002022-03-19T03:34:41-07:00Thomas "Jeff" Cooktag:jeffcookrealestate.com,2012-09-20:606112 Things You Should Know About Real Estate<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1451/image/What_to_know_about_real_estate.png" width="1200" height="800" alt="What to Know About Real Estate" />
The Lighter Side of Real Estate, a website geared towards the fun of real estate, recently released a video of the “12 Things You Should Know About Real Estate.” We love what they had to say and decided we’d like to go a little more in-depth with you about these topics.
1. A home is worth what a buyer is willing to pay.
You may think all the time and effort you have put into your home before listing it, even what you paid for it previously, makes it worth a certain price. Even an appraiser may come in before you list and say it’s worth close to a price you like. But at the end of the day, it is only worth what a buyer is willing to pay for it. They may think your upgrades don’t match up with the asking price. It may be that the home does need renovations and the asking price is too much to justify buying it and immediately pouring more money into it. A buyer would rather purchase a home at $125k, put $25k into it, and have it be worth $180k instead of buying a home at $180k that needs the same work of the $125k home.
2. Upgrades may not increase the value, but they’ll increase the chances of getting it sold.
Similar to what was previously stated, a buyer does not want to pay a certain amount for a home, then have to fork out more money afterward to upgrade the home or even upgrade at all. Most buyers in today’s market want move-in ready houses. Things that can turn potential buyers away before they even reach your front door are white appliances, vinyl flooring, wallpaper, carpet in common areas, and other popular items from 15 years ago. Unless you’re listing at a contractor price, then you’re good to go.
3. Cleanliness is godliness.
No house is ever going to be perfect, especially with a dog in the summer, but it is important to make an effort to keep your home as clean as possible during listing photos and showings. You want potential buyers to remember what they love about the home after they leave, not talking about how much of a mess your home was instead. Check out our <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/how-to-show-your-home-last-minute/">tidying tips for last-minute home showings </a>that will help you clean the most visible parts of your home in less than an hour!
4. Curb appeal is the first (and strongest) impression.
We all know what they say about first impressions. It’s hard for someone to change their mind after a bad first impression. Take a look at the front of your home. As a stranger, would you buy it? Just in case you’re biased, look next door. What about your neighbor’s home? Would you buy theirs? If no, imagine if they made it more presentable. Then would you buy it? Yes? Remove the kid's toys from the front yard. Hide the trash cans and recycling bin. Mow the lawn and trim the bushes, especially before your professional pictures are taken! But continue to maintain the lawn for showings, and for the chance that someone might just drive by and notice the for sale sign in your yard. If you have shutters, make sure they’re all still attached and if needed, slap a fresh coat of paint on them. And don’t forget to pressure wash! <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/4-things-to-do-to-freshen-up-your-curb-appeal/">Freshening up your curb appeal</a> even in the smallest ways can help you greatly in the long run.
5. Pet odor and clutter leave the longest-lasting impressions.
Just because we love our furry friends, doesn’t mean that everyone does. It’s hard to erase every piece of evidence that they exist in your home. No matter how many times you vacuum, there will be pet hair that you miss. Just make an effort. And if you can, hide their bedding and food bowls. Pet odor is extremely hard to hide, especially if you have a puppy learning how to be potty trained or a senile dog with a bladder problem. It might be worth your while to replace your flooring or offer a flooring allowance in the deal. For now, stick a few air wicks in each room.
6. Neutral paint and decor will always appeal to the masses.
Get rid of those dark colors and bright purple accent walls now! That will stick out like a sore thumb in your listing photos before a potential buyer even schedules a showing of your home. The first thought going through their mind is, “how many coats of paint is it going to take to cover up that hideous color.” <a href="https://www.hgtv.com/design/topics/neutral">Neutral is in</a>. Neutral is always in. As for decor, minimal is best. Go ahead and pack any extra decor that is unnecessary while you’re trying to sell.
7. Cheap fixes or updates will result in cheap (low) offers.
If you can’t afford to update the whole house, don’t. Trying to cover everything will result in cheap updates that the potential buyer will most likely want to have redone. If nothing else, as stated above, at least paint. A fresh coat of paint in the whole house as long is it is a natural color, is never wasted money.
8. Everything is negotiable.
Seriously. Everything is negotiable. While the refrigerator seems to be the biggest thing that buyers want or sellers note that it can convey with an acceptable offer, many other items have been negotiated. Blinds, curtain rods, curtains, furniture, even tractors. However, it is very important to make sure negotiations are done right and documented correctly in the contract.
9. Time is of the essence.
Because we’re in a seller's market, it is the perfect time for you to list your home if you’ve been considering it. Homes can barely be put on the market before there is a contract put on them. This being said, time is of the essence for buyers. If you fall in love with a house, you need to put an offer in now, and a good one at that. There’s no time to waste going home and talking about it or sleeping on it. That home might not still be on the market tomorrow.
10. Location! Location! Location!
There are two things people look for when searching for a new home, how far the drive is to work and which school district, even which school in the district, the home is located in. This is a tough hurdle to get over if you’re selling because jobs are so spread out across the Lowcountry so you can’t please everyone and even when you bought the home, it was zoned for a great school, it could get rezoned by the time you decide to sell. If you’re buying, you’re in luck because so many developments are coming in to cater to the new companies moving into the area, which also means that new schools are popping up everywhere.
11. Buyers notice things they want to change before noticing any updates.
Like previously said, it’s hard to please everyone. Even though you just spent $30,000 on an upgraded kitchen and $10,000 on a remodeled master bathroom, a buyer may be groaning because they’re not looking forward to having the carpets ripped up and hardwoods laid. Or, they just might not like the choices you made during the renovation process. One fail-safe move you can make is to allow a flooring allowance or paint allowance, therefore you’re not wasting the money while getting the home <a href="https://www.jeffcookrealestate.com/blog/scrambling-to-sell/">ready to sell </a>and they can pick out the details they like.
12. When priced right, it will sell.
Most buyers will look at an older home and think, why would I choose this home when I can get new construction for around the same price? It’s almost a losing battle. Except an older home will be move-in ready, have a bigger yard, won’t be located literally on top of the neighbor’s home, and my personal favorite to point out, it withstood Hugo. But you may have to list on the lower end of your price point to compete with those new construction homes.2016-07-15T07:44:00-07:002021-08-30T12:36:57-07:00Thomas "Jeff" Cook