Holly Hurd

Holly Hurd
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices HWWB, REALTORS
Showing posts with label puremichigan. Show all posts
Showing posts with label puremichigan. Show all posts

Wednesday, November 29, 2023

How To Decorate When Your Home is For Sale

 



When providing Home Staging Consultations for sellers during the holidays, one question they have is…

Can I still decorate for the holidays?

My answer has always been YES… with one caveat…KEEP IT SIMPLE


Creating the feeling of home with a holiday spirit can help your buyers picture themselves there. Remember…buying a home is not just about the numbers. An emotional connection plays a key role. 

 

The goal is to add light touches of “HOLIDAY” in your home without overwhelming the buyer. They still need to see the SPACE!

 

OUTSIDE

~Avoid going overboard!  Well-placed holiday plants and a welcoming wreath rather than blowups, candy canes, and reindeer covering the yard. 

~Avoid oversized decorations that make it difficult for buyers to enter the front door.

 

 

Everything Doesn’t Have to Be Red! (or Blue)

When we think of Christmas or Hanukkah the colors that come to mind are red or blue. But what if they don’t go with the rest of your house?

There’s nothing etched in stone that says that either of these colors has to be used.  Complement the colors you do have. Consider white poinsettias instead of red.

 

Don’t Block the Paths That Will Allow Your Buyers to Navigate Through and Around Your Home.

Sometimes we have to tweak some furniture placement to make room for our tree.

Keep traffic patterns open for your buyers.  

Make sure electrical cords that light up the tree will not be a hazard to anyone walking by.

 

Preserve the View

Whether it’s a view of your pool area, large patio, or wooded area, don’t block the view with a large Christmas tree.

 

 

 

Don’t Hide Your Home’s Chief Selling Points!

If you have a beautiful fireplace and mantle let your buyers see it. Don’t cover it up with so many stockings, holly, and candles that buyers won’t even know it’s there.


Have some sense about your holiday scents!

Some buyers may not be able to handle strong holiday scents...too much peppermint, balsam, fir can overwhelm them.

 

Have a large kitchen island? Make sure they can see it...don’t have every inch covered in Christmas Cheer!

Just because your house is for sale doesn’t mean that you have to pass on the holiday spirit. Just remember to…

 

 

 

holiday home staging

 

This is the time to let your HOUSE shine...not the decorations!


Holly Hurd~ Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Kee, Realty.... your source for all your real estate. We are one of the Largest brokerage firms in Michigan, we have proven we can stand the test of time in this ever changing marketplace a proven leader for you and all your real estate needs. In today's competitive real estate market, timing is everything. Many good homes are sold before they are ever advertised. Beat other homebuyers to the hottest new homes for sale in the Wayne/Oakland co. area with my New Listings Notification. If you own real estate that you're thinking of selling, I would be happy to provide you with a FREE Home Evaluation. Whether you are buying or selling a home, hire someone like me, who wants to earn your business. I invite you to contact me as I'd be happy to assist you with this important transaction. In addition, if you have any general questions about buying or selling real estate in Michigan, please contact me as I'm more than willing to help.YOU CAN REACH ME DIRECT BY PHONE ANYTIME AT 734 718-5736 #YourHomeNorthvilleMichigan Real Estate Homes for sale in Northville Michigan Northville, Mi. 48167 #realtor #realestate #realestatemarket #hometown #hollyhurd #home

#historicnorthville #buy #buyingahome #buyrealestate #condo #homeforsale
#northvillemi #sellingyourhome #smalltown #shop #bhhs #buildahome 
#moveinmichigan #greattimetobuy #SOLD #realestateforsalemi 

#puremichigan #berkshirehathaway #sellahome  

 

 


Wednesday, October 25, 2023

How Professional Photos Can Help You Sell Your Home for More Money








If you're selling your home, you know how important it is to have high-quality photos that showcase the best features of your property. Photos are the first thing that potential buyers see when they browse online, and they can make or break their interest in your home. According to Zillow research, homes with professional photos sell 50% faster and 39% closer to the original listing price than similar homes without professional photos.

But how do you get professional photos of your home? What are the benefits and costs of hiring a professional photographer? And what are the tips and tricks to make your home look amazing in photos? In this article, I will answer these questions and share some of the most common and effective ways to use professional photos to sell your home faster and for more money.

#1. Hire a Professional Photographer

The best way to get professional photos of your home is to hire a professional photographer who specializes in real estate photography. A professional photographer has the skills, equipment, and experience to capture your home in the best possible light and angle. They also know how to edit and enhance your photos to make them look more appealing and realistic.

Hiring a professional photographer may seem like an expensive investment, but it can pay off in the long run. According to a study by Redfin, homes with professional photos sell for an average of $3,400 more than homes with amateur photos. Moreover, professional photos can help you attract more buyers, generate more showings, and reduce the time your home stays on the market.

To hire a professional photographer, you can ask for recommendations from your real estate agent, friends, or family. You can also search online for local photographers who have good reviews and portfolios. You should expect to pay between $100 and $300 for a typical photo session, depending on the size and location of your home.

#2. Prepare Your Home for the Photo Shoot

Before the photo shoot, you should prepare your home to make it look clean, tidy, and inviting. You should also highlight its best features and minimize its flaws. Here are some tips on how to prepare your home for the photo shoot:

  • Declutter and depersonalize your home by removing any excess or unnecessary items, such as furniture, knickknacks, personal photos, etc.
  • Clean and sanitize your home thoroughly by wiping down all surfaces, appliances, cabinets, and fixtures; vacuuming and mopping the floors; washing the windows; dusting the blinds; etc.
  • Paint or repair any minor issues that might deter buyers, such as leaky faucets, squeaky doors, cracked tiles, or peeling wallpaper
  • Stage your home by arranging your furniture and decor in a way that showcases your home’s best features and creates a positive impression on buyers
  • Add some finishing touches by using pillows, throws, rugs, lamps, candles, plants, flowers, artwork, books, etc., to create a cozy and stylish atmosphere

#3. Follow the Photographer’s Guidance

During the photo shoot, you should follow the photographer’s guidance and suggestions on how to make your home look its best. The photographer may ask you to:

  • Turn on all the lights and open all the curtains and blinds to create a bright and spacious look
  • Move or remove some furniture or items that might block the view or create clutter
  • Adjust the temperature or humidity of your home to avoid any fogging or condensation on the windows
  • Stay out of the way or leave the premises while the photographer is working
    Provide feedback or ask questions if you have any concerns or preferences

Conclusion

Professional photos can help you sell your home faster and for more money by attracting more buyers and creating a lasting impression. By hiring a professional REALTOR (Holly Hurd) she would guide you through the home selling process and make sure your home is ready for the photo shoot, and following  REALTOR Holly Hurd's guidance, you can maximize the potential of your home making your listing stand out online.

 





Holly Hurd~ Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Kee, Realty.... your source for all your real estate. We are one of the Largest brokerage firms in Michigan, we have proven we can stand the test of time in this ever changing marketplace a proven leader for you and all your real estate needs. In today's competitive real estate market, timing is everything. Many good homes are sold before they are ever advertised. Beat other homebuyers to the hottest new homes for sale in the Wayne/Oakland co. area with my New Listings Notification. If you own real estate that you're thinking of selling, I would be happy to provide you with a FREE Home Evaluation. Whether you are buying or selling a home, hire someone like me, who wants to earn your business. I invite you to contact me as I'd be happy to assist you with this important transaction. In addition, if you have any general questions about buying or selling real estate in Michigan, please contact me as I'm more than willing to help.YOU CAN REACH ME DIRECT BY PHONE ANYTIME AT 734 718-5736 #YourHomeNorthvilleMichigan Real Estate Homes for sale in Northville Michigan Northville, Mi. 48167 #realtor #realestate #realestatemarket #hometown #hollyhurd #home

#historicnorthville #buy #buyingahome #buyrealestate #condo #homeforsale
#northvillemi #sellingyourhome #smalltown #shop #bhhs #buildahome 
#moveinmichigan #greattimetobuy #SOLD #realestateforsalemi 

#puremichigan #berkshirehathaway #sellahome  

 

 

Friday, May 19, 2023

3 Things You Can Do Now To Help Your House Sell Later

 



It is my experience that people are often ready to sell their home when they are sick and tired of taking care of it. The endless maintenance and upkeep is usually what pushes them to contact me and begin the process of getting their home on the market.

Given how often I see this scenario, I though it might be helpful to provide some tips for you to consider BEFORE you get to this point.

  1. Clean out. Clean out. Clean out. The more space you have, the more stuff you will accumulate. Start the process of getting rid of the things that you no longer use or, in the words of Marie Kondo, which no longer bring you joy. Clean out often. Pick a space weekly (or monthly) and spend a little time cleaning it out. Schedule regular donation pickups so that you know it will leave the house shortly. Join a local 'sharing' group or buy-nothing group. Do what you need to do to get unused stuff out of the house! 
  2. Do the work! Deferred maintenance causes my clients to delay getting  their homes on the market. I don't ever want a buyer to think, 'this house is a disaster.' We do the work prior to going on the market, but honestly, it is easier to do as you go. Just pick one project a month, or season, and schedule it. 
  3. Shine it up.  This one goes along with deferred maintenance, but the truth is, we stop seeing what we see every day. Take a really good look at the grout, the caulk, bathrooom and kitchen fixtures, light fixtures (inside and out) and other items through out the house. Do they look beat up? Old? How about garage doors? Your front door?  Is there weather seeling dragging along each time you open the door? Does your trim look like it is rotting? Do the screens have holes in them? Are there broken seals or locks on your windows? I can help you get all this taken care of, but it it takes time. Do it when you notice--not when you are desperate to list your home.

Can you sell without attending to these things? Of course you can. My objective, however, is always to get you the most amount of money in the least amount of time. A house that is well prepped is in the best position to sell quickly and for a premium. Houses that feel 'less than,' often sell for 'less than' market value.

I am always available if you need resources.


Holly Hurd~ Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Kee, Realty.... your source for all your real estate. We are one of the Largest brokerage firms in Michigan, we have proven we can stand the test of time in this ever changing marketplace a proven leader for you and all your real estate needs. In today's competitive real estate market, timing is everything. Many good homes are sold before they are ever advertised. Beat other homebuyers to the hottest new homes for sale in the Wayne/Oakland co. area with my New Listings Notification. If you own real estate that you're thinking of selling, I would be happy to provide you with a FREE Home Evaluation. Whether you are buying or selling a home, hire someone like me, who wants to earn your business. I invite you to contact me as I'd be happy to assist you with this important transaction. In addition, if you have any general questions about buying or selling real estate in Michigan, please contact me as I'm more than willing to help.YOU CAN REACH ME DIRECT BY PHONE ANYTIME AT 734 718-5736 #YourHomeNorthvilleMichigan Real Estate Homes for sale in Northville Michigan Northville, Mi. 48167 #realtor #realestate #realestatemarket #hometown #hollyhurd #home

#historicnorthville #buy #buyingahome #buyrealestate #condo #homeforsale
#northvillemi #sellingyourhome #smalltown #shop #bhhs #buildahome 
#moveinmichigan #greattimetobuy #SOLD #realestateforsalemi 

#puremichigan #berkshirehathaway #sellahome  

Wednesday, April 19, 2023

Your Tax Refund Can Help You Achieve Your Home buying Goals

 


Your tax refund can help you achieve your home buying goals




Have you been saving up to buy a home this year? If so, you know there are a variety of expenses involved from your down payment to closing costs. But there's good news your tax refund can help you achieve your goals by paying for some of these expenses.

SmartAsset estimates the average American will receive a $1,798 tax refund this year. The map below provides a more detailed estimate by state:



According to Freddie Mac, there are multiple ways your refund check can help you as a homebuyer. If youre getting a refund this year and thinking about buying a home, here are a few tips to keep:

  • Saving for a down payment One of the largest barriers to homeownership is saving for a down payment. You could reach your savings goal more quickly than expected by using your tax refund to help with your down payment.
  • Paying for closing costs You have to pay fees to your lender, real estate agent, and other parties involved in the homebuying transaction before you can officially take ownership of your home. You could direct your tax refund toward these closing costs.
  • Lowering your interest rate Your lender might give you the option to buy downyour mortgage interest rate during the homebuying process. That means, you could pay upfront to have a lower interest rate on your fixed-rate mortgage.

The best way to prepare to buy a home is to work with a trusted real estate professional who understands the process. They'll help you navigate the costs you may encounter as you begin your homebuying journey.



Holly Hurd~ Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Kee, Realty.... your source for all your real estate. We are one of the Largest brokerage firms in Michigan, we have proven we can stand the test of time in this ever changing marketplace a proven leader for you and all your real estate needs. In today's competitive real estate market, timing is everything. Many good homes are sold before they are ever advertised. Beat other homebuyers to the hottest new homes for sale in the Wayne/Oakland co. area with my New Listings Notification. If you own real estate that you're thinking of selling, I would be happy to provide you with a FREE Home Evaluation. Whether you are buying or selling a home, hire someone like me, who wants to earn your business. I invite you to contact me as I'd be happy to assist you with this important transaction. In addition, if you have any general questions about buying or selling real estate in Michigan, please contact me as I'm more than willing to help.YOU CAN REACH ME DIRECT BY PHONE ANYTIME AT 734 718-5736 #YourHomeNorthvilleMichigan Real Estate Homes for sale in Northville Michigan Northville, Mi. 48167 #realtor #realestate #realestatemarket #hometown #hollyhurd #home

#historicnorthville #buy #buyingahome #buyrealestate #condo #homeforsale
#northvillemi #sellingyourhome #smalltown #shop #bhhs #buildahome 
#moveinmichigan #greattimetobuy #SOLD #realestateforsalemi 
#puremichigan #berkshirehathaway #sellahome 


Wednesday, March 22, 2023

The Importance of Professional Photos When Selling Your Home

 

  


When it comes to selling your home, the quality of the photos can greatly influence potential buyers' decision to view the property in person. In this video, we'll explore why professional photos are so important and how they can help you sell your home faster and for a higher price.

Professional photographers have the skills and equipment to capture your home in the best light possible, showcasing its unique features and making it look its best. They can also use techniques like HDR photography to capture more detail in both the highlights and shadows of your home, resulting in a more balanced and appealing image.

Moreover, professional photos can help your listing stand out among the sea of other properties on the market. With so many options available to buyers, you need to make sure your home grabs their attention and makes a lasting impression.

According to a study by Redfin, homes that are professionally photographed sell for an average of $3,400-$11,200 more than homes photographed by an amateur. They also sell an average of 32% faster. So, investing in professional photography can help you sell your home faster and for a higher price.

In summary, professional photos are a crucial part of marketing your home, and in this video, we've discussed how they can greatly impact your ability to sell it quickly and for the best price possible. If you're considering selling your home, don't skimp on the photography. Invest in a professional photographer and give your home the best chance to shine.

Holly Hurd~ Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Kee, Realty.... your source for all your real estate. We are one of the Largest brokerage firms in Michigan, we have proven we can stand the test of time in this ever changing marketplace a proven leader for you and all your real estate needs. In today's competitive real estate market, timing is everything. Many good homes are sold before they are ever advertised. Beat other homebuyers to the hottest new homes for sale in the Wayne/Oakland co. area with my New Listings Notification. If you own real estate that you're thinking of selling, I would be happy to provide you with a FREE Home Evaluation. Whether you are buying or selling a home, hire someone like me, who wants to earn your business. I invite you to contact me as I'd be happy to assist you with this important transaction. In addition, if you have any general questions about buying or selling real estate in Michigan, please contact me as I'm more than willing to help.YOU CAN REACH ME DIRECT BY PHONE ANYTIME AT 734 718-5736 #YourHomeNorthvilleMichigan Real Estate Homes for sale in Northville Michigan Northville, Mi. 48167 #realtor #realestate #realestatemarket #hometown #hollyhurd #home

#historicnorthville #buy #buyingahome #buyrealestate #condo #homeforsale
#northvillemi #sellingyourhome #smalltown #shop #bhhs #buildahome 
#moveinmichigan #greattimetobuy #SOLD #realestateforsalemi 
#puremichigan #berkshirehathaway #sellahome 


Friday, March 3, 2023

What Happens to Housing when There’s a Recession?

 



Since the 2008 housing bubble burst, the word recession strikes a stronger emotional chord than it ever did before. And while there’s some debate around whether we’re officially in a recession right now, the good news is experts say a recession today would likely be mild and the economy would rebound quickly. As the 2022 CEO Outlook from KPMG says:

“Global CEOs see a ‘mild and short’ recession, yet optimistic about global economy over 3-year horizon . . .

 More than 8 out of 10 anticipate a recession over the next 12 months, with more than half expecting it to be mild and short.”

To add to that sentiment, housing is typically one of the first sectors to rebound during a slowdown. As Ali Wolf, Chief Economist at Zonda, explains:

“Housing is traditionally one of the first sectors to slow as the economy shifts but is also one of the first to rebound.”

Part of that rebound is tied to what has historically happened to mortgage rates during recessions. Here’s a look back at rates during previous economic slowdowns to help put your mind at ease.

Mortgage Rates Typically Fall During Recessions

Historical data helps paint the picture of how a recession could impact the cost of financing a home. Looking at recessions in this country going all the way back to 1980, the graph below shows each time the economy slowed down mortgage rates decreased.

What Happens to Housing when There’s a Recession? | MyKCM
Fortune explains mortgage rates typically fall during an economic slowdown:

“Over the past five recessions, mortgage rates have fallen an average of 1.8 percentage points from the peak seen during the recession to the trough. And in many cases, they continued to fall after the fact as it takes some time to turn things around even when the recession is technically over.”

While history doesn’t always repeat itself, we can learn from and find comfort in the trends of what’s happened in the past. If you’re thinking about buying or selling a home, you can make the best decision by working with a trusted real estate professional. That way you have expert advice on what a recession could mean for the housing market.

Bottom Line

History shows you don’t need to fear the word recession when it comes to the housing market. If you have questions about what’s happening today, let’s connect so you have expert advice and insights you can trust.


Holly Hurd~ Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Kee, Realty.... your source for all your real estate. We are one of the Largest brokerage firms in Michigan, we have proven we can stand the test of time in this ever changing market place a proven leader for you and all your real estate needs. In today's competitive real estate market, timing is everything. Many good homes are sold before they are ever advertised. Beat other homebuyers to the hottest new homes for sale in the Wayne/Oakland co. area with my New Listings Notification. If you own real estate that you're thinking of selling, I would be happy to provide you with a FREE Home Evaluation. Whether you are buying or selling a home, hire someone like me, who wants to earn your business. I invite you to contact me as I'd be happy to assist you with this important transaction. In addition, if you have any general questions about buying or selling real estate in Michigan, please contact me as I'm more than willing to help.YOU CAN REACH ME DIRECT BY PHONE ANYTIME AT 734 718-5736 #YourHomeNorthvilleMichigan Real Estate Homes for sale in Northville Michigan Northville, Mi. 48167 #realtor #realestate #realestatemarket #hometown #hollyhurd #home

#historicnorthville #buy #buyingahome #buyrealestate #condo #homeforsale
#northvillemi #sellingyourhome #smalltown #shop #bhhs #buildahome 
#moveinmichigan #greattimetobuy #SOLD #realestateforsalemi 
#puremichigan #berkshirehathaway #sellahome 

Thursday, January 14, 2021

3 good arguments for selling a house in the winter

 



Serious Buyers look in the winter

One of the most frustrating parts of selling a home is window shoppers. In the spring and summer, Sellers are more likely to run into people who are “just looking” or who might just be curious about what the inside of the house looks like.

In the winter, Sellers are much less likely to encounter people who don’t have any intention of buying. Bad weather, shorter days, and year-end responsibilities make window shopping less prevalent.

On the other hand, people who do look at houses in the winter tend to be more serious about buying. They’re braving the elements. They’ve got their year-end ducks in a row. They may actively be looking now to avoid the spring housing rush.



And in some cases, selling a house in the winter can yield a higher price for Sellers. According to realtor.com, “Statistics show that homes actually sell at a slightly higher price in winter.”

If your Sellers don’t want to deal with window shoppers, selling a home during the winter could be the answer. Be sure that your Sellers understand the difference between the kinds of Buyers who look in the winter and Buyers who look during peak seasons.

Fewer homeowners try selling their house in their winter

Sellers might be tempted to wait until spring because that’s when everyone else sells. But fewer Sellers on the market means more eyes on the houses that are on the market. This is an instance when going against the grain can be a big differentiator, especially if you and your Sellers can stage the house well.

When Sellers have less competition to worry about, it can create a quicker sale. With this in mind, it’s important that you clearly understand how urgently your Sellers want to sell. Make sure you ask this question directly, as it can help you serve your clients’ needs more successfully.

Selling a house in the winter can be faster

Between more serious Buyers and less competition, selling a home in the winter can yield faster sales. According to one Redfin study, when Sellers list their houses in the winter, they’re more likely to sell within six months than a Seller who lists in the spring.



Holly Hurd~ Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices HWWB, REALTORS.... your source for all your real estate. We are one of the Largest brokerage firms in Michigan, we have proven we can stand the test of time in this ever changing market place a proven leader for you and all your real estate needs. In today's competitive real estate market, timing is everything. Many good homes are sold before they are ever advertised. Beat other homebuyers to the hottest new homes for sale in the Wayne/Oakland co. area with my New Listings Notification. If you own real estate that you're thinking of selling, I would be happy to provide you with a FREE Home Evaluation. Whether you are buying or selling a home, hire someone like me, who wants to earn your business. I invite you to contact me as I'd be happy to assist you with this important transaction. In addition, if you have any general questions about buying or selling real estate in Michigan, please contact me as I'm more than willing to help.YOU CAN REACH ME DIRECT BY PHONE ANYTIME AT 734 718-5736 #YourHomeNorthvilleMichigan Real Estate Homes for sale in Northville Michigan Northville, Mi. 48167 #realtor #realestate #realestatemarket #hometown #hollyhurd #home
#historicnorthville #buy #buyingahome #buyrealestate #condo #homeforsale
#northvillemi #sellingyourhome #smalltown #shop #bhhs #buildahome 
#moveinmichigan #greattimetobuy #SOLD #realestateforsalemi 
#puremichigan #berkshirehathaway #sellahome