6 Items to Remove Before Hosting an Open House

You're ready to sell your home and this weekend is the first Open House. You've cleaned and cleaned and cleaned some more. Wall paint has been touched up and windows are sparkling. All rooms are neat and any embarrassing things like dirty laundry have been discreetly tucked away. 

You're ready to go, right? Not so fast!

Most real estate agents (and seasoned home sellers) would add that there are a few other preparations you must do to make sure you're ready for your open house. 

Remember, you are getting your home ready for outsiders which means that there are some key items you'll want to hide away to not only improve your chances of selling your home but also to save you from a headache later. Check out the infographic below:

Economic Revolutions: Boomers to Millennials

The Baby Boomers and the Millennials are two special generations. Their influence is worthy of evaluation especially because it is likely you will be interacting with both groups in some way in your daily life. Whether you work for a Baby Boomer or you’re trying to have a positive relationship with your kids (or grandkids), the trends and ideologies of these two groups of people are driving our social and economic structure.  Why? The Numbers – 82 million Millennials (born 1981 to 2001) and 77 million Boomers (born 1946 to 1964).

Baby Boomers were the generation that pushed revolutionary ideas in marriage, relationships, civil rights and social commentary. Millennials are the first generation to have computers in the home and classrooms, to have cell phones, instant messaging and hundreds of cable channels. The ease at which they use technology is the greatest difference between Millennials and every other generation.

5 Myths About Home Values in California

Photo Credit: Wikipedia

During periods of economic growth, home values typically go up and most homeowners do not question appraisals. Conversely, in times of turmoil when property values are declining, homesellers naturally question appraisal values.

The actual appraisal process has changed very little over the course of the housing boom and bust cycle but since the topic of home values seems to be a hot discussion, let's address the top five appraisal myths/questions.
Appraisal Myths:

Myth #1- Appraisal values are based upon a simple formula that uses dollar per square foot and comparable sales prices.

Reality - There are several factors the affect the value of a property which include comparable sales prices, location, amenities, exterior and interior condition, maintenance, lot size, bed and bath count, traffic and much more.  There is no simple formula.