| When I
first meet with buyers in our area to determine
what they want in a house, they often specify
features such as hardwood floors, natural
woodwork and a fireplace-sometimes before
listing the more practical considerations such
as number of bedrooms, baths and garage space.
And I've often seen buyers willing to sacrifice
that third bedroom, or that extra bath, when
they fall in love with a house full of character
and charm.
What our neighborhood buyers
want, then, is most easily described as Old
World charm. Sellers should keep this in mind
when making decorating and remodeling decisions
before going on the market. Three examples:
--Always opt to have floors sanded
rather than carpeted (probably the most
important advice I can give).
--Don't be afraid of rich,
old-fashioned colors for your walls.
--Replacement windows (if
absolutely necessary, since the selling return
is poor) should never be vinyl. Use real wood
instead, which can be stained or painted to
match the home's woodwork. |
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Most sellers will, of course, rely on a Realtor
for advice about improvements to be made before
going on the market--but it's important to check
with a real estate professional before making
any major change, even if you plan to stay in
your home for years.
| Pat
Rosaves is a full-time real estate
professional living in the Seward -
Longfellow area. She has more than 24
years experience in helping people with
their real estate needs. Questions may be
sent to her at River Realty, 2543 38th
Avenue South, Mpls, MN 55406. Or call her
at 612-724-1314 or email her at
pat@riverrealty.net
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