Best Value Home Improvement-Judge the Book by Its Cover

There are so many choices in homes, it's easy to understand why prospective buyers are reported to make a decision within 10 seconds of whether they will even go into a home with the intent to purchase.

That 10 seconds is critical. Think of where a prospective buyer spends those moments--pulling into the driveway, approaching the door, waiting at the door, and just inside the entry. What do they see? yard, exterior maintenance, and general condition of home upon entering.

Now, take the test yourself! Hit the play button to see how the pictured home was transformed. Where would you be eager to go? Which home would entice you to come inside? Which home would leave you with the best impression when you were leaving?

I've seen the projection for return on landscaping as an investment range from 97% to 200%. The variables seem to be: what was it when it started? how large/mature are the plantings, and the sophistication of the design. The landscape needs to be in proportion and in keeping with the home size and style.

Please check out my vendor partner, Max Cohen Landscape Design, for more information and ideas.

It's All Online, Why Work with a Buyer's Agent?

I love working with clients that are eager to learn and research. There's so much information online--sites with estimated home values, flood zones, mortgage calculators, and Google. Often clients are more knowledgable in parts of a property search than I am. So why work with me, or anyone else, as a buyer's agent?

1-I have access to up to date listing information. Syndicated sites often post old information or misinformation. Helping you interpret and sort information is key.

2-My commitment to my clients is to get them into properties of interest as soon as possible. Often my clients get in before open houses and other showings.

2-My ties within my firm connect me with properties before they even hit the market.

3-I'll personally connect with the seller's agent to gather information. I'll work to position you to make a strong offer that will meet your needs and position you well to have an offer accepted.

4-Become a trained consumer with an eye for major issues to consider. It's fun to coach home buyers as to how to effectively shop for properties that meet their needs.

5- A phenomenal inspector will find problems and also suggest how you should care for your property. I am happy to suggest a number of inspectors that I have worked with successfully in the past.

6-As important as inspector, finding stellar legal representation can save the deal and protect you as an investor. Again, I'd love to connect you with a reputable lawyer.

7-Negotiating can be tricky, I am successful in de-escalating situations and keeping the primary objectives in focus. I treat others with respect and find it possible to come to win-win terms nearly all the time.