My Indiana Home Blog

First, in order to have buyers perceive your home as having "curb appeal", you need to look at your property objectively and creatively (as a buyer would) before you begin this project. Your ultimate goal is to improve the appearance and appeal of your property, have those buyers saying "WOW".

Walk to the front of your house with a pen and paper, positiion yourself where buyers would first see your home. Ask yourself, what looks good? What looks bad? Make sure your checklist includes the following: Yard-Debris, Litter, Hoses, Garbage cans, Fences tidy. Lawn-Mow, rake, edge, weed & feed. Planting area- Mulch, Water, Weed/Trim, Flowers/Pots. Trees/Shrubs- Prune, Water. Entry Area/Walks- Unclutter, Sweep/Wash, Touch-up paint, Lights work, Doorbell works. Driveway- Clear of excess vehicles/objects, Room to park, Gravel/Concrete, fill holes, Garage doors, tidy appearance. After you've made this checklist, go down and mark the items that need attention. Beside each item write down words that indicate what you might do to make this area more appealing. Use this check list as an organizational tool and a way to check your progress.

Remember, you don't have to spend a lot of money to have a nice yard! A yard that is neat, cheery and well-maintained is something that will appeal to a buyer.  And believe me, buyers will notice! Also, the strategic use of color (small annual plantings, hanging bastets, etc) and form (careful pruning, accent items liek decorative borders, trellises and shutters, etc.) can transform even a modest yard into a substantial asset.

Keep in mind the following

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When it comes time to sell your home, or put it on the market, are you asking yourself "How can I sell my home faster and for more money?" I think everyone askes that question, especially if you're already on the market.  By making a few changes, selling your home will become a reality. It's up to you what amount of money you wish to spend too, plus take into account your energy level, budget, motivation, and judgment.

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If you had to list your biggest fears when moving to a new home, what would they be?

You might be worried about something valuable or sentimental breaking. Or, you might worry that a box would get lost along the way. Or, that the movers won't show up on time -- or perhaps at all.

But the one thing you probably aren't worrying about may be the biggest concern of all -- the moving company you hired is a scam company, and they're holding your stuff hostage until you fork over a wad of cash.

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 Now more than ever before, people are spending time outdoors or in their backyards. If you're planning on selling your home now or in the future, or even just love hanging outdoors, then consider making some changes. Upgrades can turn your backyard into an entirely new living area while increasing the value of your home sweet home! 

You could craft an outdoor kitchen- it's as easy as starting with a grill! Or add an outdoor sink and prep area, portable refrigerator, food storage, patio set for six...the options are endless.

   A new patio is an excellent way to define livable outdoor space. Consider eco-friendly Trex decking or hardscape options like brick pavers or decorative stones!      

Check back often for more creative ideas on improving your home!

Having trouble deciding what to update in your home when it comes time to sell it? Well if you have a bigger budget, definitely redo the kitchens, bathrooms and floors first. If you're trying to select one small area in the house to make a "quick fixer-upper", then start with the rooms that have running water first, mainly the master bath. If you do this right, they almost always pay off.

Renovations in bathrooms are often some of the most dynamic and noticeable, whether they're large or small, you can make changes to update and open this room up. It seems that nowadays, every homeowner wants a spa retreat within the comforts of their own home. You can create a spa like atmosphere in your bathroom...really. Maybe we're all just watching a little too much of Extreme Home Makeover or HGTV! In any case, here's what to do.

You can start your bathroom project by updating fixtures. From pedistal lavatories and furniture-style vanities to high performance toilets, new fixtures bring the bathroom from that wonderful 1970's pink tile appeal to modern chic! (Not to say your bathroom is that outdated).

Back to the spa- Replacing your boring bathtub with a luxurious whirlpool tub is definitely worth it. People tend to look for things like jet or garden tubs with a view. These tubs can be bought anywhere from $300-$1,000 and can boast innovative features such as air jets and hydrotherapy massages. Pamper yourself while you sell your home I say!

If you're working with a smaller space,

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