5 Home Improvements That Won't Sell Your House

Here is a great article about upgrades to your house that won't sell it.  Take a look!  

If you remodel your house because you plan to live in it forever, then do whatever you want. But if you plan to remodel to help your resale value, beware of these projects.

Homeowners upgrade their homes for two reasons: They always dreamed of having a walk-in shower, or they think remodeling will boost their home’s value when it comes time to sell.

While the emotional value a remodeling project adds to a home usually pays off, unfortunately the monetary value rarely does.
Let’s face it, you’re not always going to recoup the money you spent on a remodeling project when it comes time to sell. Check out these examples to get an idea of what you rhouldn’t do before you sell…

1. Adding a new facade to the exterior of your home

I live in a historic neighborhood comprising mostly of turn-of-the-century Craftsman Bungalows. A few years ago, adding a brick front over the original wood became all the rage in my neighborhood. Now it just looks out of place in the area. Last month, three houses went up for sale on my street – two with the brick facade and one with the original wood. The wood house sold right away while the brick fronts are still sitting there.

I’m not saying that was the reason why one house sold and the others didn’t, but spending the extra money sure didn’t seem to help. According to MSN, homes that stick out – like brick facades nestled among wood bungalows - won’t do anything for their value.

Alternative: While you should update the exterior of your home before you sell, stick with the original plans. For example, replacing weathered siding with the higher-end fiber-cement siding returned an average of 78 percent of what homeowners paid, according to Remodeling Magazine.

2. Putting in a pool

According to SmartMoney, adding an in-ground pool to your backyard won’t add any real value when it comes time to sell. In fact, large outdoor projects don’t typically appeal to a wide range of buyers. Most buyers would rather see an open yard space than a koi pond or 16-seater hot tub.

Alternative: Clean up the yard and add some basic landscaping to the front and back. Having a nice yard gives your home curb appeal, and it’s one of the cheaper remodeling projects you can do. In fact, a study by HomeGain shows that the average landscaping job costs $540 and adds $1,932 to your home’s value.

3. Converting your attic to a home office

Converting attic space into a useable room will appeal to buyers – if it’s the right kind of room. Rooms like home offices only appeal to buyers who consider working from home a plus. In fact, HGTV reports that a home office remodel only recoups 60 to 73 percent of the cost on average.

Alternative: Converting your attic space into something that appeals to everyone, such as a bedroom. On average, homeowners saw up to a 90 percent return on this project, according to HGTV.

4. Overhauling your entire kitchen

Kitchens are the one room in the house that will appeal to the most buyers, so you want it to be eye-catching. But, that doesn’t mean you need granite counter tops, wood floors, and a double Viking oven to sell your house. On average, homeowners spent $110,938 on an upscale kitchen remodel. But the new kitchen only increased home values by $63,731 on average (or about 57 percent), according to MSNBC.

Alternative: Do a smaller-scale kitchen remodel, and focus on the areas that are the most outdated. As a comparison, MSNBC found that a smaller kitchen remodel cost $19,588 on average but raised the home’s value by an average 72 percent.

5. Installing solar panels

Green homes are becoming more popular, so making your home more energy-efficient will appeal to buyers. But the big greening projects are costly. For example, The New York Times reports that while the cost of solar panels has gone down by about 40 percent, one homeowner still paid a whopping $77,000 to install a solar panel system. It would be nearly impossible to recoup that investment in this housing market.

Alternative: Upgrade your windows with energy-efficient models – you’ll make your home more energy-efficient without the hefty price tag of those huge greening projects. Double-pane energy-efficient windows provide better insulation, which lowers utility bills – improvements that appeal to every buyer. And if you buy Energy Star-rated windows, you’ll qualify for a tax credit.

Questions to ask yourself

Before starting a remodeling project, consider these points…
1. Will this upgrade add value to my house? If you’re remodeling because you plan to eventually sell your home, run your ideas past a real estate agent or professional contractor. Not every project automatically adds value to a house.
2. How will my house compare to other homes in my neighborhood? If you put your house on the market the same time as five of your neighbors, your house needs to stand out – but not too much. Most buyers won’t consider your house if it’s priced much higher than others in the same area – even if your upgrades are worth the higher value.
3. Does this upgrade appeal to a wide range of buyers? If you’re going for a standard kitchen remodel, odds are it will appeal to almost every buyer who comes through your house. But, if you’re planning to break the mold with your home remodel, you might be wasting your money. Run your idea past a few friends and see if they’d buy it.


To order your copy of Remodeling Hell, CLICK HERE
For more information about the Summit Murder Mystery series, CLICK HERE

Article source: moneytalknews.com

5 Home Improvements That Won't Sell Your House

Homeowners upgrade their homes for two reasons: They always dreamed of having a walk-in shower, or they think remodeling will boost their home’s value when it comes time to sell.

Here is a great article about upgrades to your house that won't sell it.  Take a look!  

If you remodel your house because you plan to live in it forever, then do whatever you want. But if you plan to remodel to help your resale value, beware of these projects.

While the emotional value a remodeling project adds to a home usually pays off, unfortunately the monetary value rarely does.
Let’s face it, you’re not always going to recoup the money you spent on a remodeling project when it comes time to sell. Check out these examples to get an idea of what you shouldn’t do before you sell…

1. Adding a new facade to the exterior of your home

I live in a historic neighborhood comprising mostly of turn-of-the-century Craftsman Bungalows. A few years ago, adding a brick front over the original wood became all the rage in my neighborhood. Now it just looks out of place in the area. Last month, three houses went up for sale on my street – two with the brick facade and one with the original wood. The wood house sold right away while the brick fronts are still sitting there.

I’m not saying that was the reason why one house sold and the others didn’t, but spending the extra money sure didn’t seem to help. According to MSN, homes that stick out – like brick facades nestled among wood bungalows - won’t do anything for their value.

Alternative: While you should update the exterior of your home before you sell, stick with the original plans. For example, replacing weathered siding with the higher-end fiber-cement siding returned an average of 78 percent of what homeowners paid, according to Remodeling Magazine.

2. Putting in a pool

According to SmartMoney, adding an in-ground pool to your backyard won’t add any real value when it comes time to sell. In fact, large outdoor projects don’t typically appeal to a wide range of buyers. Most buyers would rather see an open yard space than a koi pond or 16-seater hot tub.

Alternative: Clean up the yard and add some basic landscaping to the front and back. Having a nice yard gives your home curb appeal, and it’s one of the cheaper remodeling projects you can do. In fact, a study by HomeGain shows that the average landscaping job costs $540 and adds $1,932 to your home’s value.

3. Converting your attic to a home office

Converting attic space into a useable room will appeal to buyers – if it’s the right kind of room. Rooms like home offices only appeal to buyers who consider working from home a plus. In fact, HGTV reports that a home office remodel only recoups 60 to 73 percent of the cost on average.

Alternative: Converting your attic space into something that appeals to everyone, such as a bedroom. On average, homeowners saw up to a 90 percent return on this project, according to HGTV.

4. Overhauling your entire kitchen

Kitchens are the one room in the house that will appeal to the most buyers, so you want it to be eye-catching. But, that doesn’t mean you need granite counter tops, wood floors, and a double Viking oven to sell your house. On average, homeowners spent $110,938 on an upscale kitchen remodel. But the new kitchen only increased home values by $63,731 on average (or about 57 percent), according to MSNBC.

Alternative: Do a smaller-scale kitchen remodel, and focus on the areas that are the most outdated. As a comparison, MSNBC found that a smaller kitchen remodel cost $19,588 on average but raised the home’s value by an average 72 percent.

5. Installing solar panels

Green homes are becoming more popular, so making your home more energy-efficient will appeal to buyers. But the big greening projects are costly. For example, The New York Times reports that while the cost of solar panels has gone down by about 40 percent, one homeowner still paid a whopping $77,000 to install a solar panel system. It would be nearly impossible to recoup that investment in this housing market.

Alternative: Upgrade your windows with energy-efficient models – you’ll make your home more energy-efficient without the hefty price tag of those huge greening projects. Double-pane energy-efficient windows provide better insulation, which lowers utility bills – improvements that appeal to every buyer. And if you buy Energy Star-rated windows, you’ll qualify for a tax credit.

Questions to ask yourself

Before starting a remodeling project, consider these points…
1. Will this upgrade add value to my house? If you’re remodeling because you plan to eventually sell your home, run your ideas past a real estate agent or professional contractor. Not every project automatically adds value to a house.
2. How will my house compare to other homes in my neighborhood? If you put your house on the market the same time as five of your neighbors, your house needs to stand out – but not too much. Most buyers won’t consider your house if it’s priced much higher than others in the same area – even if your upgrades are worth the higher value.
3. Does this upgrade appeal to a wide range of buyers? If you’re going for a standard kitchen remodel, odds are it will appeal to almost every buyer who comes through your house. But, if you’re planning to break the mold with your home remodel, you might be wasting your money. Run your idea past a few friends and see if they’d buy it.


To order your copy of Remodeling Hell, CLICK HERE
For more information about the Summit Murder Mystery series, CLICK HERE

Article source: moneytalknews.com

10 Terrific DIY Home and Garden Projects

It has been a while since I've posted some DIY projects, and I came across these and thought I would share!  Add Spring panache inside your home and out with these engaging DIY projects for all skills levels.  From fixing up roadside furniture to installing an edible container garden and building a stone fire pit, these 10 DIY projects for the home and garden are for both newbies and pros!

Project: Painted quotation
Difficulty: Easy
Estimated time: 1 hour

The book Flea Market Chic by Liz Bauwens and Alexandra Campbell features a quote painted on the wall above a bed's headboard. You can easily re-create this poetic look with a small can of paint and a set of letter stencils — or very good handwriting.

  Project: Burlap-wrapped pots
Difficulty: Easy
Estimated time: 15 minutes

Jennifer of The Old Painted Cottage covered basic pots with burlap to enhance her maidenhair ferns. Buy a roll of burlap at a garden store, cut a section that fits your pot and place the stylishly covered pot in a plant stand. You can also finish the look by tying the burlap with twine.

Project: Two embellished paper lanterns
Difficulty: Easy
Estimated time: 20 minutes to 2 hours

Monica Ewing of Crafty Nest whipped up these delightful paper globe lanterns with nothing more than a glue gun and embellishments from a craft store. The flower design takes a bit more time, but you can finish the pom-pom creation in just minutes.

See the full instructions here

Project: Container garden Difficulty: Easy Estimated time: An afternoon Want an edible garden in raised beds but don't have the time or desire to do major construction? Take a cue from the folks at Banyon Tree Design Studio and fill galvanized troughs (yes, the kind livestock drink from) with soil and compost, and use them as containers to plant your seeds.

Project: Reclaimed dining chairs
Difficulty: Moderate
Estimated time: 2 days (including drying time)

Monica Ewing of Crafty Nest scooped up these chairs for free on the side of the road and transformed them with black paint and decorative fabric.

This is a no-sew project, so it's even appropriate for newbie DIYers. Read the full details and how-to here.

Project: Stenciled rug Difficulty: Moderate Estimated time: 2 days Upgrading a sisal rug with a modern print creates a fresh look that's inexpensive. Read more about this project here.

Project: Outdoor chalkboard Difficulty: Moderate Estimated time: 2 days Shades of Green's portfolio on Houzz inspired me to research outdoor chalkboard DIY projects. I discovered the perfect method: Mix outdoor paint with a dark sanded grout and apply it to a sheet of plywood for a version that will hold up against the elements. Get the full how-to here.

Project: Front-door face-lift
Difficulty: Moderate
Estimated time: 2 days (includes drying time)

Designer Brian Patrick Flynn, aka the Decor Demon, upgraded a basic hollow-core door in a weekend with new hardware, fresh paint and crisp graphic design. It may look complicated, but with time and patience, even a beginner can tackle this project.

Read the full story with step-by-step instructions

Project: Placemat pillows Difficulty: Moderate (sewing machine required) Estimated time: Several hours Living in a Nutshell by Janet Lee covers creative and budget-friendly projects for small spaces. Here's a genius tip from the book: Sew designer placemats together and fill with stuffing to create a pillow. Read the Houzz coverage of Living in a Nutshell for more ideas.

Project: Backyard fire pit Difficulty: Hard Estimated time: Several weekends (and helping hands) If you are ready to bust out the power tools and do some heavy lifting, this stacked stone fire pit could be yours in time to enjoy warm summer nights. Erin Lang Norris did a wonderful job outlining step-by-step instructions, so if you decide to tackle this project, you are in good hands. Source: www.houzz.com To order your copy of Remodeling Hell, please CLICK HERE! To read how you can help updating Remodeling Hell, please CLICK HERE For more information about my Summit Murder Mystery series, please CLICK HERE!

10 Terrific DIY Home and Garden Projects

It has been a while since I've posted some DIY projects, and I came across these and thought I would share!  Add Spring panache inside your home and out with these engaging DIY projects for all skills levels.  From fixing up roadside furniture to installing an edible container garden and building a stone fire pit, these 10 DIY projects for the home and garden are for both newbies and pros!

Project: Painted quotation
Difficulty: Easy
Estimated time: 1 hour

The book Flea Market Chic by Liz Bauwens and Alexandra Campbell features a quote painted on the wall above a bed's headboard. You can easily re-create this poetic look with a small can of paint and a set of letter stencils — or very good handwriting.

  Project: Burlap-wrapped pots
Difficulty: Easy
Estimated time: 15 minutes

Jennifer of The Old Painted Cottage covered basic pots with burlap to enhance her maidenhair ferns. Buy a roll of burlap at a garden store, cut a section that fits your pot and place the stylishly covered pot in a plant stand. You can also finish the look by tying the burlap with twine.

Project: Two embellished paper lanterns
Difficulty: Easy
Estimated time: 20 minutes to 2 hours

Monica Ewing of Crafty Nest whipped up these delightful paper globe lanterns with nothing more than a glue gun and embellishments from a craft store. The flower design takes a bit more time, but you can finish the pom-pom creation in just minutes.

See the full instructions here

Project: Container garden Difficulty: Easy Estimated time: An afternoon Want an edible garden in raised beds but don't have the time or desire to do major construction? Take a cte from the folks at Banyon Tree Design Studio and fill galvanized troughs (yes, the kind livestock drink from) with soil and compost, and use them as containers to plant your seeds.

Project: Reclaimed dining chairs
Difficulty: Moderate
Estimated time: 2 days (including drying time)

Monica Ewing of Crafty Nest scooped up these chairs for free on the side of the road and transformed them with black paint and decorative fabric.

This is a no-sew project, so it's even appropriate for newbie DIYers. Read the full details and how-to here.

Project: Stenciled rug Difficulty: Moderate Estimated time: 2 days Upgrading a sisal rug with a modern print creates a fresh look that's inexpensive. Read more about this project here.

Project: Outdoor chalkboard Difficulty: Moderate Estimated time: 2 days Shades of Green's portfolio on Houzz inspired me to research outdoor chalkboard DIY projects. I discovered the perfect method: Mix outdoor paint with a dark sanded grout and apply it to a sheet of plywood for a version that will hold up against the elements. Get the full how-to here.

Project: Front-door face-lift
Difficulty: Moderate
Estimated time: 2 days (includes drying time)

Designer Brian Patrick Flynn, aka the Decor Demon, upgraded a basic hollow-core door in a weekend with new hardware, fresh paint and crisp graphic design. It may look complicated, but with time and patience, even a beginner can tackle this project.

Read the full story with step-by-step instructions

Project: Placemat pillows Difficulty: Moderate (sewing machine required) Estimated time: Several hours Living in a Nutshell by Janet Lee covers creative and budget-friendly projects for small spaces. Here's a genius tip from the book: Sew designer placemats together and fill with stuffing to create a pillow. Read the Houzz coverage of Living in a Nutshell for more ideas.

Project: Backyard fire pit Difficulty: Hard Estimated time: Several weekends (and helping hands) If you are ready to bust out the power tools and do some heavy lifting, this stacked stone fire pit could be yours in time to enjoy warm summer nights. Erin Lang Norris did a wonderful job outlining step-by-step instructions, so if you decide to tackle this project, you are in good hands. Source: www.houzz.com To order your copy of Remodeling Hell, please CLICK HERE! To read how you can help updating Remodeling Hell, please CLICK HERE For more information about my Summit Murder Mystery series, please CLICK HERE!

15 Outdoor Decoating Ideas on a Budget

With spring in full swing, many people are spending more time outside. The warmer temperatures, beautiful blooming flowers, and green grass growing, it is time to get outside and see what nature has to offer.  It is also the time of year when avid gardeners turn to outdoor decorating.  Listed below are 15 outdoor decorating ideas on a budget.  Which of these ideas will you implement into your outdoor décor?

• Bring in the flowers.
  If your garden just doesn’t seem up to par, add beauty through flowers. Replace old flowers that may have seen better days.  The more color you have in your flower beds, the more curb appeal your home will have. Your local nursery will have beautiful plants at great prices.
• A stylish second hand bird bath. 
  A bird bath will attract wild life to your yard.  Put a bird bath in your yard that will be stylish and attractive to your guests as well.  Sit on your porch in the spring enjoying the outdoors and beautiful wildlife that is attracted to your yard.
• Find great outdoor furniture at garage sales.
  Outdoor furniture will make a big impact when decorating your outdoor space. Unfortunately, it can get rather expensive.  Visit garage sales around the area in search of second hand outdoor furniture that is still in good shape.  You may even check the ads in your local newspaper.
• Recover your existing outdoor furniture.
  If you already have furniture, choose to recover it instead of going out and buying brand new furniture. This is a cost efficient way to get  a new look for your outdoor space.
• Make your own outdoor accessories.
  Choose to make you own stepping stones and outdoor art to help beauty your space.  The options are endless when creating classic pieces to help decorate outdoors. If you have a creative touch, use your skills to save you money.
• Shop at your local craft store for outdoor accessories.
  Some large craft stores will carry outdoor accessories at a cheaper price. To really save money, go in search of accessories that may have minor defects. This is a great way to save you money.
• Find an outdoor rug on clearance.
  An outdoor rug can help warm up the space and make it seem as if you are really indoors. This is a great way to add in color and texture to your outdoor living space.
• Build a raise platform with lumber you have laying around.
  A raised platform is a great place to put a dining table or to make a sitting area.  If you have extra lumbar lying around, use it to decorate your outdoor space.
• Don’t be afraid to bring the indoors out.
  If there are things from indoors that you plan on getting rid of, why not bring them outdoors and allow them to act as garden accessories.
• Make your own stepping stones.
  Stepping stones can be rather expensive if you choose high quality materials. Save some money on those stones by making your own from cement.
• Discover inexpensive outdoor lighting.
  Outdoor lighting is a must to help complete the perfect outdoor space. When decorating, choose inexpensive lighting that can make a big impact.
• Bring in a water element.
  A water fountain in the corner can give you and your family the illusion of being someplace else.  Wait until the end of the season and get a water fountain on sale.
• Potted plants can make a big impact.
  Add potted plants to your porch area for another inexpensive burst of color.
• Invest in a trendy outdoor fan.
  Outdoor fans are inexpensive, provide relief from the heat, and can also make a statement in your outdoor space.  Choose a trendy design that is eye catching.
• Outdoor pillows are must!
  If you can’t afford to recover your outdoor furniture, choose to buy new outdoor pillows to help give the space a fresh look. This is an inexpensive way to add a touch of color and elegance.

Are you busy decorating your outdoor space? If so, choose to implement the ideas above to help get the look that you want on a small budget.

To order your copy of Remodeling Hell, CLICK HERE!

*article from letsrenovate.com

15 Outdoor Decoating Ideas on a Budget

With spring in full swing, many people are spending more time outside. The warmer temperatures, beautiful blooming flowers, and green grass growing, it is time to get outside and see what nature has to offer.  It is also the time of year when avid gardeners turn to outdoor decorating.  Listed below are 15 outdoor decorating ideas on a budget.  Which of these ideas will you implement into your outdoor décor?

• Bring in the flowers.
  If your garden just doesn’t seem up to par, add beauty through flowers. Replace old flowers that may have seen better days.  The more color you have in your flower beds, the more curb appeal your home will have. Your local nursery will have beautiful plants at great prices.
• A stylish second hand bird bath. 
  A bird bath will attract wild life to your yard.  Put a bird bath in your yard that will be stylish and attractive to your guests as well.  Sit on your porch in the spring enjoying the outdoors and beautiful wildlife that is attracted to your yard.
• Find great outdoor furniture at garage sales.
  Outdoor furniture will make a big impact when decorating your outdoor space. Unfortunately, it can get rather expensive.  Visit garage sales around the area in search of second hand outdoor furniture that is still in good shape.  You may even check the ads in your local newspaper.
• Recover your existing outdoor furniture.
  If you already have furniture, choose to recover it instead of going out and buying brand new furniture. This is a cost efficient way to get  a new look for your outdoor space.
• Make your own outdoor accessories.
  Choose to make you own stepping stones and outdoor art to help beauty your space.  The options are endless when creating classic pieces to help decorate outdoors. If you have a creative touch, use your skills to save you money.
• Shop at your local craft store for outdoor accessories.
  Some large craft stores will carry outdoor accessories at a cheaper price. To really save money, go in search of accessories that may have minor defects. This is a great way to save you money.
• Find an outdoor rug on clearance.
  An outdoor rug can help warm up the space and make it seem as if you are really indoors. This is a great way to add in color and texture to your outdoor living space.
• Build a raise platform with lumber you have laying around.
  A raised platform is a great place to put a dining table or to make a sitting area.  If you have extra lumbar lying around, use it to decorate your outdoor space.
• Don’t be afraid to bring the indoors out.
  If there are things from indoors that you plan on getting rid of, why not bring them outdoors and allow them to act as garden accessories.
• Make your own stepping stones.
  Stepping stones can be rather expensive if you choose high quality materials. Save some money on those stones by making your own from cement.
• Discover inexpensive outdoor lighting.
  Outdoor lighting is a must to help complete the perfect outdoor space. When decorating, choose inexpensive lighting that can make a big impact.
• Bring in a water element.
  A water fountain in the corner can give you and your family the illusion of being someplace else.  Wait until the end of the season and get a water fountain on sale.
• Potted plants can make a big impact.
  Add potted plants to your porch area for another inexpensive burst of color.
• Invest in a trendy outdoor fan.
  Outdoor fans are inexpensive, provide relief from the heat, and can also make a statement in your outdoor space.  Choose a trendy design that is eye catching.
• Outdoor pillows are must!
  If you can’t afford to recover your outdoor furniture, choose to buy new outdoor pillows to help give the space a fresh look. This is an inexpensive way to add a touch of color and elegance.

Are you busy decorating your outdoor space? If so, choose to implement the ideas above to help get the look that you want on a small budget.

To order your copy of Remodeling Hell, CLICK HERE!

*article from letsrenovate.com

Romantic Bedroom Decorating Ideas

I thought I would bring you a different article on home remodeling today.  Here are a few ideas on how to make your bedroom more romantic.  We all desire a romantic getaway where we can leave behind the busy life and indulge ourselves in a romantic place where all our senses are sharpened to the beauty of our surroundings and to the love and romance of our company. The good news is that you don’t have to book an expensive flight to a far off tropical destination nor does the excitement have to last for just a short few days or weeks.  Not at all! We will discuss romantic bedroom decorating ideas that you can use to lose yourself in the comfort of your own home.  

Your own private bedroom can be your lasting romantic getaway! 

When creating a romantic mood, visual stimulus is without a doubt the most critical point.  Therefore, one great romantic bedroom decorating idea is to bring the color of love to your bedroom by splashing some vibrant colors such as various shades of red, purple, pink and orange in your bedroom. It is important to note that colors play an important role in setting the right mood and creating excitement. Try to minimize the use of lackluster colors such as white and beige.

The best way to bring these fiery colors to your bedroom is by selecting the appropriate colors for your drapes, bed sheets, pillow cases and comforter.  For instance selecting a darker shade of red for your drapes and powerful designs that includes the same shade of red color in your comforter is an excellent way of bringing the right mood to your bedroom.

Next, selecting bed linens that are smooth and soft along with soft accent pillows and blankets are a great way of setting the right mood.

This feeling is not limited to touching your bed elements but also the floor.  Although you may have a great looking floor, don't hesitate to decorate with a rug.  A great decorating idea here is to select a simple design without too much color for the floor rug so that the attention stays on the more romantic features in the room.

Finally, a crucial element in creating a perfect romantic setting that most people forget, is our sense of smell.  Various scented candles and aromas such as vanilla and fragrant oils are a great way of creating the perfect scent.  You can also arouse the sense using a floral spray that has a touch of jasmine or lavender, just remember to do it sparingly to avoid creating discomfort.

To order your copy of Remodeling Hell, CLICK HERE!  Please follow this blog for other home decorating ideas!  

When is the Best Time for Home Buying?

There are times in a year when it is particularly ideal to go into home buying. Aside from the actual time though, the situation of the buyer should also be considered. Timing in terms of what period of the year it is and timing in terms of the financial condition of the buyer are both important.

If you are on a fence as to whether it is the right time for you to purchase a house, you may have to consider some or all of the factors enumerated here. Below are some guidelines that may help you decide.

1. Market condition. This is quite obvious, particularly to those who are aware of what is going on in the housing market most of the time. The best time to buy, of course, is when it is a buyer's market. This is a point in time in housing when there are more sellers than buyers. As expected, this favors the buyer since the prices will be lower, more choices are available and their power to negotiate is stronger. Sellers will be forced to compete against their fellow sellers for a limited number of potential buyers, so they will be more willing to lower their prices.

2. Unusual time of the year. Most home buyers get into the market during spring. The weather is ideal for house hunting and this is the time when most sellers unveil their best offerings. However, this is also a time when competition among home buyers is tightest since almost all of them have the same goal in mind. If you have the patience for it, it may be best for you to buy during times when most of your fellow buyers prefer to stay inside their homes. Winter months and the weeks leading to Christmas season are examples of such times. If you shop during these periods, you will have fewer competitors and you may just luck out, especially since sellers who have their properties listed at these times are the most motivated to unload their houses.

3. You have resolved your debt issues. If you are at a period in your life where you have multiple debts to pay for, then you may have to reconsider your plan to purchase a residential property. Paying for a mortgage is a big responsibility, so you need to make sure that you do not have other heavy financial obligations when you decide to buy a house. Pay off 75% or all of your debts first before you go into home buying to avoid being weighed down by too many financial obligations.

4. You are ready to settle down. This does not necessarily mean that you are ready to have a family or to get married, although it could also cover these situations. What this means is that you have really decided that you can stay in one place for long. This is important because you need to live at least five years in a home for it to build a decent equity. So, before going into home buying, make sure that you have really decided that it is the right time for you.

To order your copy of Remodeling Hell, CLICK HERE!  

*article from e-foreclosuresearch.com