Renovations That Will Increase Your Home's Value

If you have considered renovating your home with the intention to sell in the near future, or just for your family, there are a few things you may want to consider. If you are looking for a renovation that will increase your home's value, there are two ways to go about the process. Getting one or two major renovations completed, such as finishing a basement or adding an extra living space to the existing home is one tactic. Opting to tackle a handful of small projects and fixes is the second option. Whichever you decide to do, here are some remodeling projects than can add more value to your home.

Kitchen Upgrades

These days, potential buyers typically seek a spacious, updated kitchen. Simple upgrades like replacing old appliances and adding new countertops or cabinets can easily add up in cost. Consider these bigger renovations that are worth the investment:

• Adding an island
• Adding a breakfast nook
• Adding new ceramic flooring
• Adding accent lighting

Removing Walls

Open floor plans are the first to catch the eye of many. Knocking down unnecessary walls is a great way to open up any space with little hassle. Be sure to use a professional contractor for a safe and completed job!

Room Additions

Contrary to popular belief, adding a new room to your existing home is not as expensive as one may assume and is a great way to increase your home's value. Think about converting your attic to a study area or adding another room addition to your house. This will increase your square footage while pushing up your asking price.   

Outdoor Living Space

People crave an outdoor space for relaxation during the warmer months. This could mean building a back deck or slate patio. Make your outdoor space a mini oasis by adding path lights, plants, shrubs, and trees.

Choice Properties understands your needs and desires when it comes to the home search. We are here to help you define what you want, seek the best property and move forward feeling educated and able to make good decisions throughout the process. You can trust us to help you navigate it with the best real estate agents working for you. Call us to get started on your dream home search today.

Tips for Selling Your Home in the Winter Months

Although winter is not the peak season for selling your home, don't get discouraged when preparing for a winter sale. Working with a trusted real estate agent is the first step to beating the non-peak season of home selling. There are also plenty of things you can do to help your home feel warm and inviting during the cold months, potentially sparking an interested buyer. Consider these tips for selling your home in the winter months to help change your perspective.

Show Buyers What Your Home Looks Like During Spring and Summer

With a little planning ahead, you can easily show buyers what your home looks like in the warmer months. Including a photo album or digital slideshow of the exterior during the spring, summer, and fall. Be sure to focus on garden beds, and patios or porches with outdoor furniture. This will help buyers envision the home and outdoor space for those relaxing summer nights.

Focus on Curb Appeal

Enhancing curb appeal can be challenging with snow and ice, but the effort will help tremendously. Taking time to clear your driveway and walkway of snow while sprinkling ice is a perfect first impression. Consider adding greenery around your fronch porch, such as a winter wreath or artificial plants.

Let In the Natural Light

Small gestures, such as retracting blinds and widening curtains make your windows look bigger while allowing natural daylight to flow into your space. Take time to experiment with different light bulbs, finding the one best suited for your space. For example, a bathroom looks great with daylight bulbs (5,000-6,5000K), while bedrooms and living rooms are more relaxing with a soft white bulb.

Deep Clean

This suggestion may seem obvious, but we suggest cleaning beyond your hardwood floors and countertops. Clean the bottom cabinet of your sink, including drawers, incase buyers peek at the plumbing. Consider adding fresh sheets of liner on the drawers for an overall clean-feel. Little things such as cleaning ceiling fans, showerheads, and molding will make your home feel fresh and new.

Choice Properties understands your needs and desires when it comes to the home search. We are here to help you define what you want, seek the best property and move forward feeling educated and able to make good decisions throughout the process. You can trust us to help you navigate it with the best real estate agents working for you.

Call us to get started on your dream home search today.

Read This Before Buying a Fixer Upper

Whether you're a first time home buyer or experienced with the home buying process, purchasing a house is an exciting time! Taking time to discuss your desires in a home with a trusted realtor will help make your dreams come true. For some, this may be newly built home with extra storage on a limited budget. Others may prefer to purchase a "fixer upper", which requires an open mind and deep conversations. The agents at Choice Properties suggest you read this before buying a fixer upper, preparing you with questions to ask along the way.

Questions to Ask Your Agent

What is the value in this neighborhood?

It's important to keep in mind the area in which you're looking to purchase a fixer upper. Considering your investment in the long run is critical with these projects, as you don't want to get stuck in a house you can't sell down the road.

Is the home located in a historic district?

Purchasing a victorian home to renovate is a dream had by many. Featuring original crown molding, wainscoting, and beautiful stained-glass windows. Your agent should make you aware of this, but homes in historical districts often have to be renovated with an association or to a city standard. This means obtaining approval for projects and updates, which also comes with a price tag.

Questions to Ask Yourself

How is the overall layout of the home?

Although changing the layout is possible, it's also an extra cost along with time added to the project. Considerations for how existing rooms flow and which walls are able to be knocked down to create a larger space should be kept in mind. Make note of the number of bedrooms and bathrooms you are seeking versus what the house currently offers. Will you have to add another bedroom or bathroom?

Do you have the time, patience, and energy for a fixer upper?

Choosing to completely renovate a home is a large project that requires many considerations. Are you prepared for unexpected issues or delays? Asking yourself these questions will help you decide if a fixer upper is truly what you are seeking.

Flipping a house is a big project, but can be done with determination!

Fixer uppers can be great investments in the long run, but require a promised commitment. Ask yourself if you are truly ready for a big project and tackle it head on, creating the home of your dreams!  If that answer is yes, it's time to call a Choice Properties agent to discuss the current options on the market!

Choice Properties understands your needs and desires when it comes to the home search. Whether you are looking to purchase a fixer upper or move in ready home, our team is ready to help. You can trust us to help you navigate it with the best real estate agents working for you.

Call us to get started on your dream home search today.

A Weekend at Indian Lake

Indian Lake, Ohio, is known for its numerous islands across the center of the lake, home to a large wildlife area, with many inlets and bays along a 30 mile coast. Spending weekends at Indian Lake is a common tradition held by many friends and families, and for good reason! The outdoor activities are endless and allow your family to make cherishable memories while enjoying time together. Whether you're considering purchasing a waterfront home or planning a weekend trip, stay tuned to discover what makes Indian Lake a popular destination getaway.

Water Activities

This 5,800 acre lake offers unlimited horsepower boating, giving you the option to relax and sunbathe or rev up the engine for tubing in the zoned area. Indian Lake features five boat ramps and many boat docks to rent, providing an easy and safe storage for your boat. Water skiing is another popular activity among the lake, pros and newbies welcome!

Fishing and Hunting

Do you consider yourself a fishing connoisseur? Indian Lake is stocked with largemouth bass, saugeye, white bass, crappie, bluegill, walleye, catfish, and more! Large wetlands remain on the northeastern part of the lake, where navigational channels have been cut through the area to allow boats. Soak in the sunset and nature sounds while fishing peacefully. Hunting is also permitted in designated areas only. Be sure to renew your hunting or fishing license before casting away!

Swimming and Boating

If you had the option to go to a beach every weekend, why wouldn't you?! Indian Lake offers two public beaches for swimming and relaxation, but be sure to pack the sunscreen! The four designated boating and swimming areas are South Walnut Isle, Little Walnut Isle, Hermit Island, and Snow Island.

Camping and Hiking

Did you know there are over 4,000 campsites near the lake? The Indian Lake State Park offers 500 family campsites suitable for tents or trailers just Northwest of the lake. If you're looking for electrical hookups, full-service hookups, or campsites for pets, there is something for everyone!

Hiking at Indian Lake is another outdoor activity enjoyed by many. Take a break from the water and immerse yourself in mother nature. The Cherokee Trail and the Pew Island Trail are both great paths, offering fresh air and stunning lake views.

Choice Properties understands your needs and desires when it comes to the home search. We are here to help you define what you want, seek the best property and move forward feeling educated and able to make good decisions throughout the process. You can trust us to help you navigate it with the best real estate agents working for you. Call us to get started on your dream home search today.