Archive for September, 2008

These are the five biggest mistakes I see when it comes to hiring a professional mover…….

1) Not interviewing multiple movers;
2) Always choosing the mover with the lowest estimate;
3) Not getting a detailed written estimate, including charges for packaging;
4) Not keeping all documentation and contact information easily accessible;
and last, but certainly not least;
5) Not understanding how weight/size/numbers of items/boxes affect costs.

When shopping for homeowner’s insurance, be sure to compare at least 3 quotes from different companies…..And be prepared to give at a minimum, the address of the home, the age, its total square footage, and the type of construction.

Here are some good questions to ask:

Will you order a C.L.U. E. (Comprehensive Loss Underwiting Exchange) Report?

Could the results of the CLUE Report cause my policy to be cancelled after its been issued?

What type of policy would you recommend for the type of home I am purchasing?

What hazards will your policy protect me against?

What hazards will your policy not cover?

Is additional coverage available for hurricanes, earthquakes, flooding, etc.? What would it cost?

What are the limitations of coverage?

What coverage is provided for personal property?

Does the policy pay out based on replacement cost?

What is the annual premium for the insurance?

How quickly do you settle most claims?

Here are a few basic thoughts to help you prepare and show your home for sale.

Don’t Panic: You come first. This is your home, you have your Life to live, do the best you can and then don’t worry.

First Impressions: An inviting exterior insures inspection of the interior. Keep your lawn trimmed and edged, flowerbeds cultivated, the yard free and clear of refuse.

Decorate For A Quick Sale: Faded walls and worn woodwork reduce desire. Do not tell the prospect how the place can be made to look, show them by making it look great. A quicker sale at a higher price will result.

A Clean Home Is A Happy Home: Bright, cheery windows and unmarred walls will assist your sale.

Fix That Faucet: Dripping water discolors the enamel and calls attention to faulty plumbing.

A Day with the Carpenter: Loose doorknobs, sticking drawers and warped Cabinet doors are noticed by the prospect. Have them fixed.

Closet illusions: Clothes properly hung, shoes, hats and other articles neatly placed, will make your closets appear adequate. Pack and store excess items.

For The Rest of Your Life: Bedrooms are always important features. Arrange them to feel spacious and clean.

The Brighter The Better: Illumination is a welcome sign. For after-dark inspections, turn on your lights from the front porch in and throughout. The prospect will feel a glowing warmth; otherwise impossible to attain. Also turn on lights in the daytime for rooms that are not so bright.

Three’s A Crowd: When a REALTOR® and the prospect arrive you should greet them courteously, and then disappear. Children and pets should be kept clear. Don’t volunteer any comment unless asked. Remember the prospect is there to view the home.

Shut off the Television: The radio or TV can distract from your home. Let the agent and the buyer talk free of any disturbances.

Love Me, Love My Dog: This does not apply in house selling. Keep pets out of the way, preferably out of the house.

Be Aware of Odors: People will linger in a fresh, pleasant smelling home. Stale air, or bad odors, make them want to get out and can ruin the sale.

Be It Ever So Humble: Please don’t apologize for appearance of your home. After all, it is lived in. Let the agent answer any objections that are raised.

A Word to the Wise: Do not discuss price, terms, possession or other factors with the customers. Refer them to us. As a seller, most anything you say could compromise your position. As a third party, a REALTOR® can better bring the negotiation to a favorable conclusion placed, will make your closets appear adequate. Pack and store excess items.

Dear To Her Heart Is The Kitchen: Colorful curtains in harmony with the floor and Counter tops add appeal for the lady of the house. Keep oven clean – it often gets inspected.

Check And Re-Check Your Bathroom: Bright and clean bathrooms sell many homes. Keep toilet lids down.