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New Home Checklist: Needs and Wants

August 18, 2015 By

If you’re shopping for a home for the first time, you might find yourself thinking, “Where do I even begin?” It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of searching for your home, and it can be hard to consider what we actually need and not what we simply want. Do you really need a house with a spacious backyard if you don’t have children or pets? And yes, a swimming pool would be nice, but is there enough room for one in your budget?

When shopping for a new home, the needs have to outweigh the wants. For now, it’s more important for you to find a home in a good location, with the right amount of rooms than one with a pool.

This New Home Checklist encourages you to separate what you need in a home from what you want in a home. Bring it around to open houses and check things off as you look around! If there are more wants checked off than needs, then this might not be a practical home for you.

What I need in my new home: These are some general things to look for in a new home, but not everything may apply to you! Simply cross off the ones that apply to the home you’re viewing. There’s space to write in your own.

  • Good location
  • Strong school district
  • Reasonably sized rooms (not too small OR too big)
  • Interior layout that I like
  • Home with solid foundation
  • Good amount of natural light
  • Attached garage
  • A driveway or somewhere to park cars easily

What I want in my new home: Write down everything that makes up your ideal home! A swimming pool, a sprawling backyard, and a beautiful, spacious kitchen might make the list. Use this space to fill them in and cross them off as you look through the home.

 

 

Take a copy of this checklist to each open house you attend. It might make it easier for you to compare different homes. Search for a home that fulfills most of your needs and allots for some of your wants as well. Practicality is important, but so is increasing the likelihood that you love your new home.

Happy house hunting!

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Tips for Writing an Enticing Listing

June 4, 2015 By

Your listing is your first impression. Taking the time to make sure it is compelling and enticing to potential buyers is the best way to increase the odds that your property will sell quickly. Here are tips for writing an effective real estate listing.

● Have a strong headline and opening: Besides the photo, the first thing that’s going to catch someone’s attention is the headline. It should be concise, while also pulling the reader in to learn more. Use the headline to highlight the price, unique features, or any other strong selling points. Make sure the first sentence also hooks the reader. Include a handful of the home’s key features and anything else notable that will make it stand out. Get to the point from the beginning or else you’ll lose the buyer’s attention. Readers want to know right away if the home fits their criteria.

● Watch your word choice: Avoid over-used terms and consider these buzzwords instead: “light,” “beautiful,” “fixer-upper.” Stray away from less enticing words like, “clean,” “quiet,” “move-in condition,” or “value.”

● Don’t exaggerate: There’s a fine line between selling and over-selling. Most people know hype when they spot it. Feel free to use creative language, but make sure to stick to the facts. Be precise about location and amenities.

● Be specific: Don’t leave anything to the imagination. If there’s maple or granite, be sure to point it out (especially since homes with these words in the listing tend to sell better). Avoid vague adjectives like “charming,” or “lovely.” If you use the word “spacious,” make sure to back it up with details on the square footage.

● Keep it concise: Less is more. Buyers don’t want to read a novel about the property. In fact, they’ll likely be tempted to skim the listing. Try to keep copy under 250 words maximum. Use bullet points if you can to make it as easy as possible for the reader to gather all of the important details (location, number of bedrooms, number of bathrooms, school district). Give just enough information to tempt buyers but leave them wanting more.

These tips may speed up your home sale process.

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What to Expect During the Closing Process

April 28, 2015 By

Congratulations, you’ve found a home that is ideal for you and your family. It has all your wants and needs, and it’s even in your price range. You’ve placed a bid and the buyer accepted it! You are finally getting ready to sign your name on the dotted line and buy your home.

You’re not quite done yet, there is another step that you have to go through — the closing process.

Here are some things you should know before going into your closing.

  1. Read everything: Ask your lender and attorney for the documents prior to the closing. It’s important to have the documents beforehand so you can make sure everything is correct. Not reading your documents before the closing can hurt you because there may be a typo or two, which can set back the entire process. Double and triple check everything. Review your loan and mortgage documents and get everything in order.
  1. Bring a check: Your documents will show how much you owe. Bring your checkbook. You should also bring a form of identification.
  1. Walk-through: The contract should allow you to walk through the property twenty-four hours before the closing. Bring your documents with you so you can reference them to make sure that the home is in the condition stipulated in the contract.
  1. Ownership: The whole point of closing is to transfer ownership from the buyer to the seller. Before closing, a title company will come in and make sure the deed, taxes, and other items that may affect the property are in good standing. Once that is squared away and the buyer and the lender approve of everything, you can both sign the closing documents, ultimately making you the owner of the home.

 
Closing can bring unexpected events, but if you are prepared and stay positive, things can run smoothly. This is an exciting time, so after everything is settled, take your new keys and enjoy your home!

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What to Do With the Extra Room in Your House

April 23, 2015 By

What would you do if you had an extra room in your house? Get creative because the possibilities are limitless.

1. Home Gym: Do you love to start your mornings with a good workout, but hate dragging yourself to a crowded gym? If you have some workout machines at home, transform your spare room into a gym. Even if you just buy some weights, a yoga mat, and other inexpensive equipment, you can turn your unused room into something useful.

2. Playroom: If you’re tired of tripping over your kids’ toys in your nice, fancy living room, turn that extra room into their own space. Paint the walls with chalkboard paint so they can write on the walls, store all of their toys in the room, and allow them to play. They’ll love a space of their own, and you’ll love not having a mess all over the house.

3. Contemplation Room: Ever just need some time alone with your thoughts? If you find yourself wanting to escape the craziness of the day and not knowing where to go, consider creating a contemplation room. Decorate it in all white with comfortable furniture, throw pillows, and blankets. This creates a serene space where you can go to clear your head, meditate, and relax.

4. Library: If you’re a bookworm, you’ve probably always dreamed of having your very own library. Now is your chance! Install bookshelves from wall to ceiling, add comfortable, sophisticated couches, and throw in cozy area rugs to make a comfy and inviting space. Just imagine relaxing after a long day in your library with your favorite book, a cup of tea, and candles.

5. Entertainment Center: If you don’t have a den or finished basement, and only a formal living room, you may want to consider turning the spare room into an entertainment center. Use dark woods and deep colors, reclining chairs and a sectional couch, and top it off with a flat screen television for the perfect movie theater feel. It can be a great place to have a movie marathon on a rainy day!

Having a spare room in the home leaves you with countless opportunities to be unique and create a special room that’s all your own!

Recommended Reading:

-How to Turn Your Bathroom into a Spa Inspired Escape

-Old to New: Tips for Rearranging Your Furniture

-5 Home Projects to Complete in 10 Minutes or Less

 

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What to Do With the Extra Room in Your House

April 21, 2015 By

What would you do if you had an extra room in your house? Get creative because the possibilities are limitless.

 

  1. Home Gym: Do you love to start your mornings with a good workout, but hate dragging yourself to a crowded gym? If you have some workout machines at home, transform your spare room into a gym. Even if you just buy some weights, a yoga mat, and other inexpensive equipment, you can turn your unused room into something useful.
  2. Playroom: If you’re tired of tripping over your kids’ toys in your nice, fancy living room, turn that extra room into their own space. Paint the walls with chalkboard paint so they can write on the walls, store all of their toys in the room, and allow them to play. They’ll love a space of their own, and you’ll love not having a mess all over the house.
  3. Contemplation Room: Ever just need some time alone with your thoughts? If you find yourself wanting to escape the craziness of the day and not knowing where to go, consider creating a contemplation room. Decorate it in all white with comfortable furniture, throw pillows, and blankets. This creates a serene space where you can go to clear your head, meditate, and relax.
  4. Library: If you’re a bookworm, you’ve probably always dreamed of having your very own library. Now is your chance! Install bookshelves from wall to ceiling, add comfortable, sophisticated couches, and throw in cozy area rugs to make a comfy and inviting space. Just imagine relaxing after a long day in your library with your favorite book, a cup of tea, and candles.
  5. Entertainment Center: If you don’t have a den or finished basement, and only a formal living room, you may want to consider turning the spare room into an entertainment center. Use dark woods and deep colors, reclining chairs and a sectional couch, and top it off with a flat screen television for the perfect movie theater feel. It can be a great place to have a movie marathon on a rainy day!

 

Having a spare room in the home leaves you with countless opportunities to be unique and create a special room that’s all your own!

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Moving Advice

April 20, 2015 By

We just released our video series Moved by Moving, the world’s first video series created entirely with moving boxes. We know that moving is often an anxious, stressful time. From new surroundings to new people, there is a lot to handle and get used to.

There’s no need to worry though, we are here to help! You’ve watched our videos, and now we’re providing even more tips for making the moving process as smooth as possible.

1. Dimensions: If you’re transporting furniture from home to home, measure the dimensions of the doorways and the furniture pieces. The last thing you need on moving day is to realize that your new couch doesn’t fit in the doorway of your new home.

2. Declutter: When you start packing up for your move, look at the items you have in front of you. If you see a lot of belongings that you don’t use anymore it may be time to consider a garage sale and donation. The key is to declutter your old home before moving into your new one.

3. Packing: To ensure that everything is transported safely, pack heavy items in smaller boxes and light items in bigger boxes, this makes it more likely that they won’t move around and break in transit. Also, pack plates vertically, not flat, and they will be more likely to safely make the move.

4. Necessities: It can be easy to get caught up in the moving process. On moving day, don’t forget that your new home is bare. Items like toilet paper, paper towels, hand soap, and glasses won’t be there unless you bring them. Set aside a separate bin to hold these moving essentials so you don’t find yourself in a sticky situation!

5. Pets and kids: The key to a successful move is to stay calm and avoid any chaos. If you have small children, or pets, it may be best to keep them out of the move. Ask someone to babysit (or pet sit) for the day. Once you settle in bring your pets and kids into their new home!

Moving to new home is a huge adjustment, but if you follow this advice, and do what works best for you, you’re likely to have a smooth move!

Recommended Reading:

-How to Build a Winning Home Buying Team

-On the Road Again: The Ultimate Moving Checklist

-We Asked, You Answered: Advice for First-Time Homeowners

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Introducing Moved by Moving

April 13, 2015 By

With a new home comes new neighbors, new friends, and maybe even a new city. Chartering unknown territory can seem scary, but we’re here to show you that it doesn’t have to be!

Recognizing this challenge, members of our team hope to be there every step of the way with our new, innovative, ad campaign.



We recently released our video series, Moved by Moving, a first of its kind series created using only moving boxes. The videos were filmed using stop-motion animation, once again establishing CENTURY 21® as an innovator in the industry.

The artist behind the spots, Elizabeth Corkery, is no stranger to trend-setting – she’s also the creator of special, limited edition silkscreen prints available at Print Club Boston. Her previous projects are known for being bold and unique – perfectly aligning with CENTURY 21: SMARTER. BOLDER. FASTER.®

We hope to give you the help you need to make your move an easy and smooth process.

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Money Matters: These Write-Offs Could Save You Money

April 8, 2015 By

It’s April, which means that Tax Day is quickly approaching. Filing your taxes can feel like a daunting task, especially for homeowners. Whether you’re doing your taxes yourself, or hiring someone to do so, it’s important to understand how you can save as much money as possible.

These write-offs are some of the best options for homeowners.

1. Mortgage Interest: This is the biggest deduction for homeowners. You must itemize the deduction, but it must be greater than the standard deduction. You can also use any mortgage points that you used when you purchased your home. (Fox Business)

2. Property Taxes: Yes, you can write-off certain taxes. You can write off your property, state, and local income taxes. (Time.com)

3. Home Improvements: Technically, the only home improvement write-offs you can deduct are those that were necessary for medical reasons like installing a wheelchair ramp outside of your home. Note that it’s advised that you keep all of your receipts for non-medical home improvements because it’s possible that they can be used to reduce your taxes when you’re ready to sell your home. (TurboTax)

4. Moving expenses: If you moved more than fifty miles for a new job, you can write off moving expenses. Talk to your employer to get the necessary paperwork. (Time.com)

5. Home Office: Do you run a small business from the comfort of your home? You’re in luck! You can file for a home office deduction. This even includes everything from the cost of painting the room, to the cost of buying a computer and home office supplies. It’s best practice take a picture of the office to have on record. (TurboTax)

6. Energy efficiency: You can get a deduction for owning energy efficient appliances. Heat pumps and solar powered systems garner the highest deductions. Items like energy efficient windows are the next highest deductible. Keep your receipts for your records. (HouseLogic)

If any of these write-offs apply to you, take the extra time to fill out the paper work. It may benefit you in the long run!

Recommended Reading:

-5 Ways to Help Save Money in 2015

-Summer Savings: 5 Ways to Decrease Your Energy Bill

-5 Simple Ways to Increase Your Property Value

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Storage Solutions: How to Store Winter Items Efficiently

April 3, 2015 By

The sweet smell of spring is in the air! There’s no more snow on the ground, so there’s no longer a need for your earmuffs, snow boots, or puffy coats. Say goodbye to your shovels and snow blowers until next season.

It’s time to store those pesky, bulky winter items someplace where they won’t be bothersome. The trick is to store them efficiently, safely, and securely.

1. Plastic bins: Opt for plastic bins that allow garments to breath without trapping moisture because moisture will dull the fibers. For bulkier items, use larger, deeper bins that you can place in a storage space. For smaller items, use thin, long bins that can be stored under your bed.

2. Store like items together: Storing similar items together makes unpacking next winter much easier. You’ll know exactly where every item is, causing less of a hassle.

3. Delicates: Cashmere sweaters or any other delicate pieces should be stored differently than everything else. You’ll want to store these items in a cotton canvas storage bag and then place them in a bin. This will keep the fabrics fresh and allow your clothes to keep their shape.

4. Boots and shoes: Storing shoes, especially ones as bulky as winter boots, can seem difficult. But, in fact, it’s quite easy. Invest in a few boot trees to store in your boots, helping them keep their shape, and then lay them flat in a storage bin. Wrap each pair in a cotton pillowcase or T-shirt to keep them dust free. For smaller booties or loafers, stuff them with tissue paper to help keep their shape. (StyleCaster)

5. Cool Temperatures: The ideal storing temperature is 70 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s not recommended to store items in a place that gets a lot of natural or artificial light and it’s best to avoid basements, garages, and attics. (AboutHome.com)

6. Winter tools: As for those snow blowers, shovels, and other winter tools, change the oil and store them in a cool, dry place to ensure that they are in tip top shape for next season.

These tips will make your home less cluttered and ready for spring!

Recommended Reading:

-From Chaos to Clean

-Organization 101: The Best Home Organization Inspiration on Instagram

-Here Comes the Sun: How to Prepare Your Home For Spring

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House Hacks for the Vertically Challenged

March 27, 2015 By

You have high hopes. You aim high. You just can’t reach that high. Sound familiar?

You may be vertically challenged but, fear not, there are strategic solutions that will work for you.

1. Built in step stools: Install a pull-out step stool on the bottom in a hidden drawer or cabinet below hard to reach areas like high cabinets. This will make it easier to quickly get into high places without roaming the house for a step stool.

2. Sliding ladder: If you’d like to get really fancy, install a sliding ladder similar to one you’d find in a beautiful library or bookstore. Add one to your pantry so you can always reach the extra sugar.

3. Automated cabinets: It may seem like something only available to the Jetsons but automated cabinets exist in 2015. With a push of a button, the cabinets open and the shelves slide down to a level that’s easier to reach.

4. Customized counter and cabinet heights: If you’re redesigning a bathroom or kitchen, build counters and cabinets that are customized to a height that is better for you. Yes, this might make it harder to sell in the long run, but if you don’t plan on selling soon it could make daily activities more convenient.

Being vertically challenged doesn’t have to put a damper on your everyday life! Reach for the stars (or at least the cleaning products on the top shelf) with our tips.

Recommended Reading:

-Dodge the 7 Most Common DIY Mistakes

-Home Safety Tips for the Elderly

-How to Make a House a Home: Creating Memories

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