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8 Things Buyers Don’t Want to See in a Kitchen

When prospective buyers visit a home, the room they tend to check out most closely is the kitchen. So, it pays to ensure it looks its best.

No matter how tidy, clean, and well-adorned you’ve made your kitchen, there are going to be some issues — which can seem minor — that can distract a buyer from appreciating those positive qualities.

1. Stained sink

Use a specialized cleaner for the type of sink you have.

2. Garbage

Garbage in the garbage bin. Buyers don’t mind seeing the bin, just not the garbage inside. Don’t forget to also empty the organic waste bin.

3. Cooking scents

Avoid cooking anything prior to a viewing that may create lingering odours. Not everyone appreciates the aroma of spaghetti sauce.

4. Kitchen Mat

That old or worn mat in front of the sink. Replace it.

5. Countertops

You want the countertops to look spacious to buyers. So remove any items that don’t absolutely need to be there.

6. Cupboards

Cluttered or disorganized cupboards. Declutter and organize your cupboards. Buyers are most likely to open upper cabinets.

7. Lighting

Poor lighting. You want the lighting in your kitchen to be bright (but not blinding) and evenly distributed.

8. Damage & Stains

Damaged or stained kitchen surfaces. Professional cleaning or replacement of your countertops can improve your kitchens look considerably, and might be worth the investment.

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Creating a Manageable Timeline when Selling 

There are several ways to make the selling process easy and relatively stress free. One way is to create a selling timeline that fits your needs, lifestyle, and capabilities.

Say you’d like to list your home in four weeks and expect it to be on the market for an additional four weeks. That’s an eight-week timeline. How do you create a manageable schedule that works for you? Try these steps: 

1. Determine what you need to do to get your home ready for sale. 

2. Assign who will be doing what. For example, if you need to paint, will you hire a contractor? Do it yourself? Make a family day out of it? 

3. Estimate the time it will take to do those tasks. Then add 50% as a buffer. (It’s easy to underestimate time on tasks.) 

4. Look at your current schedule and block out times on your calendar so you can complete those tasks at a comfortable pace. Go through these same steps for other selling activities, such as finding and meeting with a real estate lawyer, having buyers come to see your property, etc. 

When you create a manageable — and realistic — schedule, you may find that most of the stress and worry of selling evaporates. A manageable schedule also ensures you won’t miss anything and then have to scramble.


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Checklist for Selling Your Home this Fall

If you’re thinking of selling this fall, this is the ideal time to start the process. The earlier you get ready, the more successful your sale will be. It will likely go a lot smoother too!

1. Financials

Understanding your home's value is the first and most critical step in the Real Estate process. If you'd like to know the value of your home in today's market and how quickly you can expect it to sell, let us know! 


2. Decluttering

The more neat and spacious your home looks to buyers, the more appealing it will be to them. Be relentless when decluttering.


3. Fixing

If anything needs to be repaired or replaced, this is the best time to get that work done. You don’t want to have to scramble to find a contractor later on.


4. Scheduling

When you list in the fall, you want to make it as convenient for buyers as possible to book appointments to see your home. Be sure that you have flexibility when it comes to time you need to be in your home.


5. Targeting

Are you also buying a new home? If so, start the process now! Decide the type of home and neighbourhood you’re interested in and narrow your focus. Our new website makes searching for the homes you want in the places you like easier than ever with our neighbourhood search!


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Simple and Affordable Ideas for Improving Curb Appeal 


Curb appeal is important. It’s the first thing buyers see when they drive up to your home — and, often, the first impression they get. Fortunately, you don't have to break the bank to achieve a great-looking exterior. Here are some simple and affordable ideas for enhancing your home's curb appeal: 

1. Add a fresh coat of paint: One of the easiest ways to make your home look brand new is by adding a fresh coat of paint to the exterior. Choose a colour that complements the architectural style and surroundings of your home. 

2. Upgrade the front door: Your front door is the focal point of your home's exterior. Consider painting it a bold colour, replacing it with a modern style, or simply adding a new door knob and knocker. 

3. Install outdoor lighting: Outdoor lighting not only improves your home's curb appeal but also adds security and safety. Consider adding solar powered pathway lights, wall-mounted fixtures, or even string lights to your front porch. 

4. Update your mailbox: An outdated mailbox can detract from your home's appearance. Consider upgrading to a modern style or painting your existing mailbox with a fresh coat of paint.

5. Add landscaping: A well-manicured lawn and some strategically placed plants can instantly improve your home's curb appeal. Plant colourful flowers or add potted plants to your front porch.

6. Power wash your driveway and sidewalks: Over time, dirt and grime can build up on your driveway and sidewalks, making them look dull and dirty. Rent a power washer or hire a professional to clean them up

Improving your home's curb appeal doesn't have to be expensive or time consuming. By implementing these simple and affordable ideas, you can make your home more attractive to potential buyers and increase its value. Remember, the first impression is the most important one, so make sure your home's exterior looks its best!


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