Thursday, December 29, 2011

10 Things That Make Buyers Bite

10 Things That Make Buyers Bite

The following is a post from HGTV’s FrontDoor.com. These great tips will help sellers get the most from their home sale while attracting quality buyers.

1. A Nice Entryway

Impress buyers right off the bat with a beautiful entrance. "I always tell sellers to put a fresh coat of paint on the front door," says real estate agent Theresa Evans of Charleston, S.C.

And if you don't have an entrance at all, make one. "A lot of my buyers have mentioned that they don't like to just go through the front door into the living room," says Los Angeles-based realtor Rhonda Kohn.

This problem, more common in condos and apartments, is solved by cleverly placing furniture to create more of an entryway. "A console table or demilune chest of drawers with something over it creates a welcoming vignette," says designer Sue Adams of Andover, Mass.

2. Hardwood Floors

Realtors agree that most buyers are hunting for hardwood. You can bet that of all types of flooring, hardwood floors will "have the most longevity and will never go out of style," according to designer Linda Applewhite of Sausalito, Calif.

A synthetic wood floor, like Pergo, "is always a good option for those who can't afford hardwood," furthers real estate agent Rhonda Kohn. But know that a laminate floor "won't fool everyone - it has a hollow thud when you walk on it and it doesn't look the same," adds designer Sue Adams.

3. Fab Fixtures

"Fixtures," says designer Linda Applewhite, "are the jewelry of the house." Only the extremely detail-oriented among us will stop to inspect doorknobs, faucets and cabinet knobs, but designers and real estate agents argue that we'll prefer the look of a place that has coordinated fixtures that are a cut above standard developer grade.

"Newer construction is so chintzy with fixtures and fittings," observes Miami-based interior designer Simon Temprell. Replacing knobs and drawer pulls "is the quickest way to make over a bathroom or kitchen," he says. And when it comes to faucets, he adds, "for $60 or $70 dollars you can buy something infinitely better" than what you likely already have.

4. Beautiful Baths

According to real estate agents, marble counters, whirlpool baths and steam showers up the attractiveness of any bathroom. But if you don't have these luxury items, it may be more practical to address the unattractive aspects of your existing bath.

"Rip out that big sheet mirror and those globe lights that look like you're in a theater dressing room," suggests designer Simon Temprell.

Replace them with an elegant framed mirror (don't be afraid to look outside the bathroom section, he says) and sconce lighting on either side.

This lighting scheme is also more flattering to the face, observes designer Sue Adams, and making buyers feel pretty will pay off!

5. Countertop Considerations

You've probably heard that granite is the secret to a contemporary kitchen, but that's not necessarily what buyers are after. "It's really about the slab," says designer Linda Applewhite. Buyers don't want to see grout lines on their counters, she explains.So when it comes to slab countertops, granite is the top pick because it's hard, nonporous and easy to care for. But then again, so is Corian, so are composite stone surfaces such as Silestone and, she notes, with the help of today's sophisticated sealants, so are concrete, limestone, soapstone and marble.

Even butcher-block, which is much less expensive than stone, can be a more appealing alternative to tile or laminate countertops. "When it gets funky, you can sand it and oil it and it looks good again," she says.

Already have granite? Make it cutting edge. "A lot of people are honing their granite now," adds Applewhite. "What that does is knock it down and make it more matte, so it looks warmer and more inviting. Shiny surfaces can look very cold."

6. Steel This Idea

Why do buyers go bananas for stainless-steel appliances? It's the power of suggestion. "A kitchen with stainless appliances looks like a commercial kitchen. It makes people think that they're great cooks," observes designer Sue Adams, "but because the finish shows fingerprints, it's not for everyone."

As far as other alternatives go, the designers agree that in general, black fixtures can look dated, while white is okay for a country kitchen. And some people are making appliances blend in beautifully by ordering front panels to match their cabinetry.

7. Pre-Organized Closets

Just as stainless appliances convince buyers that they are better cooks, closet organizers make buyers believe that they are better homemakers. If your closets are unadorned, don't underestimate the importance of this easy addition.

"They make you feel secure and calm and people need that," notes designer Sue Adams. And while you don't need to use high-end organizers, make sure that the materials are up-to-date. "Twenty years ago, closet organizers meant wire shelves. You can't slide anything over a wire shelf. You can't even put a hanger in some of them," she says. Today's ideal would be "melamine shelves, in bone or white, with some drawers and metal rods to maximize storage," she says.

This organization shouldn't stop in the closet - make sure your kitchen cabinets are orderly, too. "If they open up a door and see a big pantry, but it's not organized properly, it won't be as exciting as something already organized with a place for everything," says real estate agent Theresa Evans.

8. Light Up

"Floor lamps just don't cut it these days," says real estate agent Rhonda Kohn. If your home doesn't get a lot of natural light, consider installing recessed lighting or new sconces, or both, so the buyer won't struggle to figure out how to brighten up the space.

"Lighting is probably the most overlooked, yet the most important aspect of interior decoration," designer Simon Temprell says, adding, "In newer construction, you don't have sufficient lighting. The reality is that everyone needs three types - task, ambient and decorative lighting - which allow you to change the mood of the room."

When it comes to recessed lighting, know that the smaller the fixture, the more updated it is. "We used to have six-inch apertures, now we have four-inch openings. And using halogen bulbs gives a cleaner, more modern look," says designer Sue Adams.

9. Built-In Bonus

Interior Designer Linda Applewhite observes that many buyers view built-ins as "free furniture." Well-crafted bookshelves, china cabinets and entertainment units can "make a home stand out as quality," adds designer Sue Adams.

On the other hand, says designer Simon Temprell, "It can be a catch-22 because some people would rather organize their own furniture. Sometimes it's better to have freestanding pieces that look like built-ins, that you can give the buyer the option to purchase."

10. Grass Is Greener

Are the homebuyers in your area families with young children? If so, they'll be drawn to spaces with a flat, open lawn.

Were you thinking of putting in a concrete patio or rock garden? Don't bother if you're putting your home on the market. "A flat yard is a real plus. Spend some money and put in the grass. It's a good seller," says real estate agent Rhonda Kohn.

Tuesday, December 27, 2011

Rancho Santa Margarita Bank Owned / Foreclosure Homes For Sale December 2011

Rancho Santa Margarita Bank Owned / Foreclosure Homes For Sale

Click this link to see the latest Bank Owned / Foreclosure Homes For Sale in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA, 92688 as of December 27, 2010.

This the most current list of homes that are bank owned foreclosures in the city of Rancho Santa Margarita. They range in price from 79,900 to $610,000 and include single family homes and town homes/condos. These homes may be located in various communities of Rancho Santa Margarita including Robinson Ranch, Dove Canyon, Las Flores, Rancho Cielo and Wagon Wheel.

Rancho Santa Margarita (RSM) is a lively and vibrant community that grew from a few housing developments in 1986 into one of the newer cities in Orange County California, incorporated as a city in 1999. The twin peaks of Santiago and Modjeska are the backdrop for the city and the adjoining wilderness areas. A 13-acre man made lake is a central focus of recreation in the community with a swimming lagoon and beach club plus a dozen other parks and recreation areas available throughout the city area. Elementary and secondary schools, both public and private serve the young people of the community. Residents are served by several shopping areas which include major retailers, small "mom & pop shops", entertainment venues and restaurants of a wide variety.

If you would like more information about buying a home in Rancho Santa Margarita or are considering selling your home, feel free to contact me for more information. You can also click here to for search all homes and condos in Rancho Santa Margarita.

Click here for information about the City of Rancho Santa Margarita.


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John Alesi - REALTOR®

949-510-2154

CENTURY 21 Superstars

Search for homes at: www.YourOCHome.com

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DRE# 01730187

Copyright 2011 by John Alesi. May not be copied with out consent.

Mission Viejo Bank Owned / Foreclosure Homes For Sale December 2011

Mission Viejo Bank Owned / Foreclosure Homes For Sale

Click this link to see the latest Bank Owned / Foreclosure Homes For Sale in Mission Viejo, CA, 92691 and 92692 as of December 27, 2011.

This the most current list of homes that are bank owned foreclosures in the city of Mission Viejo. They range in price from $129,900 to $720,000 and include single family homes and town homes/condos. These homes may be located in various developments of Mission Viejo including Mallorca, Finesterra On The Lake, Aegean Hills, Deane, La Paz, Barcelona, Madrid, Coronado, El Dorado, Bel Air, Buena Vista, Cortez, Expressions, Stoneridge and Quail Run or others.

Mission Viejo is one of the first master planned communities in Orange County. First developed by home builders in 1966 with a handful of homes, it now has a population of approximately 95,000 residents. The area is served by public and private schools, a major shopping mall, recreation areas including Lake Mission Viejo with swimming, boating and fishing, parks and trails, restaurants, entertainment and community services including the gorgeous Mission Viejo Public Library.

If you would like more information about buying a home in Mission Viejo or are considering selling your home, feel free to contact me for more information. You can also click here to for search all homes and condos in Mission Viejo.

Click here for information about the City of Mission Viejo.

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John Alesi - REALTOR®

949-510-2154

CENTURY 21 Superstars

Search for homes at: www.YourOCHome.com

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DRE# 01730187

Copyright 2011 by John Alesi. May not be copied with out consent.

Friday, December 9, 2011

Property Tax Due for Orange County CA Residents on December 12th

Property Tax Due for Orange County CA Residents on December 12th

Don't forget to pay the first portion of your 2011 property taxes before the deadline of December 12, 2011. There is a 10% penalty if you miss the date so now is the time to take care of it.

You can pay by mail or online with a credit/debit card or e-check. The best way to go is with the e-check which is free. You need to know your bank account number and routing number from the bottom of your printed check. Credit/debit cards pay a hefty 2.5% fee and mailing you check is dubious at best with the current state of the post office.

The process to get your taxes paid is easy:

  1. Just jump online at OC Tax Collector website
  2. Search for your property by street address
  3. Click on the Parcel Number
  4. Click on the Parcel Number (Yes...this is the second time!)
  5. Click on Pay Online
  6. Select Pay by eCheck or Pay by Credit Card
  7. Fill in the required information and click Continue.
  8. Copy your confirmation number. You will also receive a confirming email.

DONE till April 10, 2012.


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John Alesi - REALTOR®

949-510-2154

CENTURY 21 Superstars

Search for homes at: www.YourOCHome.com

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DRE# 01730187

Copyright 2011 by John Alesi. May not be copied with out consent.

Thursday, December 8, 2011

Less Is More When Selling Your Home Over The Holidays

Less Is More When Selling Your Home Over The Holidays

There is always much discussion about having your home on the market during the holiday season. Many people choose to withdraw their listing during December or simply wait until January or early Spring to get back onto the market.

While the holiday season presents some challenges this time of year, sellers need to be aware of the unique "market" that exists at this time; fewer competitive seller and buyers who are ready to make a purchase today.

The blog post below from Molly of the Century 21 Social Media Team highlights some great staging ideas to make your listing stand out during the holidays.


Santa House

As wonderful as the holiday season is, you’ll have to cut way back on seasonal decorating if your home is listed on the real estate market. You’re not selling Christmas, you’re selling a home and your listing must always look current in the photos being used to market it. The fundamentals of decorating a home to appeal to the greatest number of potential buyers still apply at this time of year.

Curb appeal is critical. This is the potential buyer’s first impression of your property. If you’ve overwhelmed them with too much “Christmas cheer” they can’t really appreciate the architecture or see your property’s natural features. If the buyer happens to have six other homes to see that day, they may very well decide to skip the showing and drive on, without even going inside.

Keep your front yard neat and tidy and free of blow up reindeer. You’ll want to ensure that walkways are always shoveled and free of ice. Draw attention to the front door with planted urns and a modest wreath. If your decorations aren’t too Christmas oriented this will also ensure your MLS photos don’t look dated in case you’re still on the market in January.

Inside your home, Christmas trees, stockings and greeting cards can make a room feel crowded and cluttered unless the house is especially large. Here too, less is more because you don’t want the potential buyer to be distracted by too many “props.” Each room needs a focal point, but when it’s your Christmas tree instead of the fireplace, this won’t help potential buyers imagine what it will be like living there year round.

If your goal is to sell your home as soon as possible, some of your usual holiday traditions may have to take a back seat this year. While there may be fewer potential buyers actively looking in December and January than in the spring, serious buyers are out there searching no matter the season!

When your home is always showing-ready and you allow appointments at this time of year, you’ll be at a distinct advantage over your competition. While the other home sellers in your neighborhood may be focused on the holidays, think how sweet it will be to celebrate the new year with a SOLD sign on your front lawn!

Internationally recognized home staging expert Debra Gould is President of Six Elements Inc. and creator of the Staging Diva Home Staging Business Training Program. An entrepreneur for almost 25 years and author of several guides, Debra has staged millions of dollars worth of real estate and uses her expertise to train others worldwide.

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John Alesi - REALTOR®

949-510-2154

CENTURY 21 Superstars

Search for homes at: www.YourOCHome.com

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DRE# 01730187

Copyright 2011 by John Alesi. May not be copied with out consent.