9 Holiday Cocktails To Drink During The Holidays
Drinks to get you through the holidays
Read More
10 Real Estate SEO Tips and Strategies for 2020
People rarely look at print ads when they are looking for real estate to rent or buy nowadays. Just like with all other stuff they are considering putting money into, they begin their search online, informing and educating themselves, and afterward analyzing the offer.
If you want your real-estate business to succeed, you need to make all of the content you put online easy for them to find. Statistics saying that 75% of internet users never scroll past the first page while about 30% of them just click the first result that comes up in their searches means there is some serious SEO business ahead of you.
Here are the 10 most relevant tips to make your real estate business flourish in 2020.
1. Find the right keywords
Keywords are the starting point of every SEO strategy, so it’s crucial that you use the right ones on your website and the other content that you publish. There are many tools available online that can help you find these keywords, and some of the most popular ones are Ahrefs Keyword Explorer, SEM Rush, and Google Keyword Planner.
Your goal is to find out the words your clients most often use when they’re looking for a piece of real estate to buy, sell or rent. To reach your target audience, it is very important for your real estate property to rank well in local searches too, so you need to find the right local keywords based on the areas of your service.
Besides your content, you should include keywords in the URL, page title, meta descriptions, and image alt tags. Still, you don’t want to overstuff your page with keywords, so make sure they don’t take more than 1-2% of the page.
2. Use relevant links
Google will reward you with better rankings if other relevant websites are talking about your real estate business so you need to create backlinks. In other words, authority sources should contain links pointing to your website. To be successful with link building, you need to reach out to trustworthy review or niche websites, as well as your local partners and media. Or hire a partner like backlink-masters to handle the workload for you.
3. Forget about the fluff
Still, your SEO efforts are hardly going to pay off unless your content is high-quality and tailored to fit the needs of your potential clients. Your every piece of content needs to add value to their lives, so it’s essential to address the most common problems of your target audience and offer them useful information or a solution.
Forget about the content serving no other purpose than to be a vehicle for keywords and links, and shift to well-crafted pieces that will keep your users on your website longer, and boost their engagement. You can also try a serp simulator.
If you want to make your SEO more efficient but lack the ideas on the content you could create, consider hiring a local digital agency that could help you come up with a good and relevant content strategy. There are some great reputable agencies, such as a New York SEO firm Four Dots, which are affordable even for small companies, so it’s worth checking out their offer.
4. Be local
Google and Bing focus on local searches, so apart from offering useful and relevant content to your clients, you should also focus on making it local. You can write about schools in your area, sports or community events, give a review of a local restaurant – whatever best fits the informational needs of your clients.
Related: Looking to buy and sell businesses, click here.
Try to spontaneously optimize your content and make it locally relevant. Use interactive maps, infographics, photos – such visuals add value to your content enormously.
5. Ask for reviews
The quantity and quality of the reviews your business gets to affect your ratings in the searches. In order to improve your online visibility, try to incentivize your satisfied clients to share their reviews or recommendations of your real estate business online. Reviews work best when they appear in several different places online, so you can have them on your website and get more Google Reviews, Yelp, as well as on Zillow, and Trulia.
Asking for reviews manually can be a tedious and time-consuming task. That's why you should look into tools that enable you to automate review collection altogether.
Make sure you respond to all the reviews, including the negative ones – it will positively affect your rankings.
6. Optimize for speed
Consumers nowadays don’t want to wait longer than 3 seconds for the website to load. For every second added the bounce rate increases – a 1-second delay costs you 11% in terms of traffic lost, and 16% in terms of customer satisfaction.
Audit your content for speed and make all the necessary changes to make it run smoothly.
7. Optimize for mobile
As recent research shows, 72% of real estate buyers used their mobile phones to search for their new homes, and the similar applies to rentals.
Both search engines and your prospect prefer mobile-optimized webpages, so unless your website displays well on smartphones and tablets, your business can suffer.
8. Use videos
Visuals, such as photos and videos, can bring the traffic and boost engagement with your site, thus increasing your rankings.
When it comes to real estate, such real estate marketing video content is essential, as property buyers love to browse and watch brand/property videos before making a purchase.
Learn about the ways you can optimize video content for faster loading.
9. Use social media
Use the power of social media to boost engagement with your content, and increase your rankings. Some of the social media channels most commonly used in real estate are Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest, so make sure you have accounts there and post relevant content, often.
Take a look at a few great real-estate Instagram accounts, and see how realtors can use their personality to promote their listings.
10. Have a blog
Blog posts are a great way to create fresh and unique content for your website and attract quality traffic. Include them on your website too, and post high-quality, optimized pieces regularly and consistently.
If you lack ideas, here are a few suggestions to begin with:
Make a list of 10 best business websites in your area,
Thank your favorite clients and say what they helped you learn,
Write about all the parks in the area and what they’re offering,
Make a list of five most beautiful properties on the market,
Write the list of the best real estate apps your prospects can use,
Review the best places for a romantic dinner.
Many realtors use their personal websites to promote their business, adding their genuine tone and approach to the real estate. Check them out to get the ideas.
Use these techniques to boost your rankings, and enjoy all the benefits of successful SEO in the year to come.
Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.
Kitchen Remodeling: How Will It Affect The Value Of Your Home
If you want to amplify things with an undeniably trendsetting showpiece in your house, then the kitchen is the best place to start with. It is no wonder that the kitchen area is one of the spaces most crucial to prospective home buyers. So, if you can afford it, why not relish those rewards in your home right now?
For the most part, people pick kitchen remodeling for multiple reasons. In a 2017 Houzz study, 43 percent of respondents reconstructed because their kitchen is no longer appealing. Forty percent of respondents wanted to remodel their kitchen but cannot afford to do so.
The price tag could undoubtedly deter some homeowners from a remodeling project. Whether you are planning a complete overhaul or just a few well-chosen updates, kitchen remodels are not always affordable. That’s where MacLaren Kitchen and Bath can help, offering expert solutions to ensure your investment is worthwhile.
For a little help, we will walk you through these questions and help you remodel your kitchen the right way.
Cost
Kitchen remodeling can get costly in a short period, particularly if your dreams of spacious islands, quartz counters, and custom cabinets. According to the 2018 Cost vs. Value Report from Remodeling Magazine, the average cost to remodel a 200-square-foot kitchen with a standard sink, laminate countertops, an island, and wood cabinets is at least 64,000 dollars.
This cost also comprises of flooring, lighting, and new appliances. However, it is possible to spend much less or much more than that. Say, for instance, a gourmet kitchen with a tile backsplash, custom cabinets, and granite countertops, along with commercial-grade and built-in appliances, could cost at least 126,000 dollars.
Moreover, a simpler renovation that comprises of adding ready-to-assemble kitchen cabinets, installing new flooring, replacing appliances, choosing new laminate counters could cost at least 21,000 dollars.
What do most homeowners spend in a kitchen remodeling project? About 70 percent of those who finished a kitchen renovation in 2017 spent at least 50,000 dollars. Only one in ten homeowners spent at least a hundred thousand dollars.
So, how much would kitchen remodeling in NYC cost? Well, that would depend on your budget and preferences. Well, it depends on your budget and your preferences.
Budgeting
If you want a successful renovation, you must first set your budget. How much are you willing to spend on light fixtures, cabinets, new hardware? With that said, you need a solid plan, outlining what things you need to deal with and how much you should spend.
In this way, you can track all your expenses throughout the renovation. With a firm budget in mind, you can, without a doubt, make kitchen renovation decisions with certainty.
Home Value
In many instances, a kitchen remodeling project can boost or raise the value of your home. It is no wonder that homebuyers are likely to pay more for thoughtful upgrades and high-end finishes.
Eighty percent of homebuyers, according to a recent survey, place the kitchen in the top three list of the most important areas in the house. Sixty-nine percent of those who purchased homes without such features said that they would’ve paid more for brand-new appliances. Lastly, 55 percent said they would’ve paid more for granite counters.
A remodeled kitchen space can make your house stand out for potential homebuyers, which can aid you in selling it in no time and for more money. Well, it is excellent news, especially if you are planning to sell or rent out your home in the long run.
However, keep in mind that even if your home value increases, it does automatically mean that you’ll recover the total expenses of renovating when you sell.
Real Estate Agent
Look for an experienced realtor to figure out how much money you’d spend on your kitchen remodeling project without going overboard. Soon, when it is time to put your home on sale, your realtor will leverage the standout feature of your home to entice homebuyers and receive a great price.
Takeaway
Is a kitchen renovation worth it? Well, the answer largely depends on your intentions and on your decisions. For instance, if you’re planning to put your home on sale in the next two months, it might not be ideal to invest 60,000 dollars into a new kitchen if your realtor thinks you will recover 40,000 dollars.
Imagine that it is 20,000 dollars down the drain! For this reason, it is much better to do well-chosen kitchen upgrades that might only cost at least 5,000 dollars. The correct updates can provide your home value a huge increase before it hits the market. Plus, it can attract as many homebuyers as possible.
Even if you do not recover the entire expense of your renovation when you sell, it is still a great investment for you and your whole family.
Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.
Where To Getaway This Winter
When it gets cold and you’re looking for somewhere to go to escape the concrete jungle, why not go to one of these places for a weekend escape? Whether it’s for cold weather or hot weather adventures, here’s where we recommend.
Miami, Fl.
What better way to get away from the cold and brisk air than with in Florida? Miami has some of the best beaches, colourful nightlife, and popular shopping that caters to pretty much everybody. Take a walk around Coral Gable to marvel at the Mediterranean Revival architecture or head to one of the relaxing spas at Miami beach like the two level Lapis Spa at the Fontainebleau Hotel. For a little cultural exploration, head to Little Havana where you can try Cuban cuisine at restaurants like El Exquisito or La Palma Calle Ocho.
Need an international license then visit INTERNATIONAL DRIVERS ASSOCIATION to get ready before your next trip.
Lake Placid, NY.
If you want to get to a snowy climate this winter, try going to Lake Placid. Don’t let the name deceive you; there’s more than just a lake. Before the snow falls and winter sets in, you can go rock climbing, cycling or hiking in the Adirondack Mountains. When the snow sets in, go ice skating on Mirror Lake, sledding, tubing or tobogganing at Kiwanis Teddy Bear Park or Lake Placid Toboggan Chute. For those feeling really adventurous, go Adirondack Ice Climbing. These are a few of the activities you can partake in at Lake Placid.
Philadelphia, PA
This is where much of the history of the United States happens from the signing of the Constitution to the location of the Liberty Bell. Philadelphia is a walking city and there’s plenty to see. If you’re going for the holidays, check out City Hall speckled with the official tree decked with lots of lights and ornaments. The Love Park is an essential visit and it hosts the Christmas market with over 80 booths from local and international markets. The Reading Market is also a great place to go if you’re looking for something to eat or wander around in while you’re looking for something to eat. If you’re looking for something cultural, walk around the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Please Touch Museum, or Independence Hall.
Our Favorite Listing: Milbank House Available For $50 Million Through Paula Del Nunzio
Our favorite listing this week is located at 11 West 10th Street, in Greenwich Village offering 18 rooms, 7 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms. There is approximately 15,560 square feet of interior space and 5,690 square feet of outdoor space, which surrounds the L-shaped mansion for a feeling of gardens everywhere.
Represented by Paula Del Nunzio, now on the market for $50 million.
In the 1880s, architect Ernest Flagg combined 11 and 13th West 10th Street into one grand mansion, creating its 54.5-foot width. Financial titan Jeremiah Milbank acquired the property, now known as Milbank House, in the early 1900s.
Milbank also owned 16 East 67th Street on the Upper East Side, which he combined with 14 East 67th Street to make 48 feet in width. That mansion was acquired in 2008 for $49 million. Eleven years later, it sold again for $77.1 million. Both sales were record townhouse prices in their year.
The present owners of 11 West 10th Street have brought the mansion to an extremely high level of renovation and beauty. Huge dramatic space is wrapped in warm lighting. Honey colors and earth tones predominate. The Venetian walls reflect the luminous feeling of sunlight, while the glass rear of the first two floors bring in complementary earth tones from the garden.
Giant interior space is bathed in natural light. The rear façade is a curtain wall of glass on the garden and parlor floors. On the garden level, there are five doors leading to the outside, and on the parlor level the curtain wall of glass bring the garden into every room.
Milbank House includes a wealth of rooms and possible layouts to accommodate bedrooms, activity rooms, grand-scale entertaining, and simple morning breakfast.
Deep forecourt garden for privacy
Enormous kitchen and informal dining area facing the garden
Formal dining room seating 25+
Original leaded glass window bay in living room
2000-bottle wine room on the garden floor
Third floor gym with terrace
Home cinema seating 15+, and kitchenette and powder room
Office with full bath-
Staff suite with full bath, kitchen, and private street entry
Master suite with fireplace, sitting room, three walk-in closets, two baths, and a study
Double-height library facing south with 21' ceilings
Five (5) guest bedrooms with full baths
High-speed elevator serves all floors, tandem entry on parlor serving butler's pantry
Decked roof terrace with greenhouse.
Each room takes full advantage of the 54.5 feet in width, providing the owner and guests with some of the most exquisite living and entertaining spaces in New York.
Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.
Related Stories
Featured
One Manhattan Square Unveils The Skyscrape Collection
Extell Development Company, announced the unveiling of The Skyscape Collection, a collection of exceptional homes situated on the highest floors of One Manhattan Square. These homes boast 270-degree views of the East River, New York Harbor, Financial District, Midtown, and beyond. The Collection consists primarily of large three-bedroom homes and includes five deluxe penthouses.
“A defining element of The Skyscape Collection is the stunning backdrop of the New York City skyline resulting from east, north and west exposures—a remarkable feat attributed to the architectural design of the tower,” says Christina Medina, Director of Sales at One Manhattan Square. “We’re confident these homes will draw buyers looking for a prized residence within a building that is unlike anything else in the city.”
Related: Inside 10 Unique Residences Designed By Anna Karlin Creates 10 for One Manhattan Square
Extell has tapped some of New York’s top brokers to market these residences, which are available for immediate occupancy. Douglas Elliman’s Ariel Cohen and Josh Rubin, Kelly Killoren Bensimon and Michael Passaro from Douglas Elliman, along with Compass’ Heather McDonough Domi and Henry Hershkowitz and Jing Chen, will serve as exclusive brokers for select residences within the Collection.
"I am thrilled to have been chosen by Extell as one of the brokers representing the Skyscape Collection," says Douglas Elliman’s Ariel Cohen. “One Manhattan Square is a true private retreat that has brought a new level of distinction to the Lower East Side. I couldn’t be more excited to be a part of the team bringing these incredible homes to market.”
“Just when we thought it couldn’t get any better—a 20-year tax abatement, 100,000 square feet of amenities, a flourishing neighborhood, and the Extell brand—One Manhattan Square has delivered yet another surprise,” says Compass’ Jing Chen. “The Skyscape Collection will be an instant icon. Yes, the apartments have large and thoughtful layouts, but honestly, the views sell themselves.”
Each of the Collection’s sun-drenched residences features a gracious entry foyer, spacious living and dining areas, master bedroom suites, five-fixture master bathrooms with heated floors and steam showers, and windowed gourmet kitchens with breakfast bars, all set against the incredible backdrop of the New York skyline and waterfront through floor-to-ceiling windows. Two of the five penthouses are duplex homes, one of which has already sold for over $13 million, and boast five bedrooms, four bathrooms, expansive entertaining terraces, and a double-height grand salon.
One Manhattan Square, which is situated on a two-acre parcel of land in Downtown Manhattan, is located along the Lower East Side Waterfront. With an exterior design by world-renowned architectural firm Adamson Associates Architects complemented by custom interiors by Meyer Davis Studio, all of the 815 residences at One Manhattan Square are intelligently positioned to maximize panoramic skyline views.
Residents never have to leave home with the unprecedented package of 100,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor amenities. Spread across four floors, the amenities were designed to provide the ultimate recreational, social and fitness experiences. Interior amenities include a spa centered around a tranquility garden with private treatment rooms and hammam with a cold plunge pool.
The multi-level fitness center offers multiple swimming pools, a full-size basketball court, golf simulator, squash court, cardio and weight rooms, and dance, yoga, and spin studios. Additional amenities include a state-of-the-art cinema and performance center, children’s playroom, bowling alley, and game room. Lifestyle amenities, such as a culinary lounge, wine room, cigar room, cellar bar and demonstration kitchen, provide an abundance of entertainment options.
West 8, the illustrious Rotterdam-based landscape architectural firm celebrated for the Hills at Governors Island and Miami’s Soundscape Gardens, has created an outdoor oasis of over 45,000 square feet of landscaped areas. Lush gardens and outdoor amenities at One Manhattan Square provide meaningful spaces for socializing including fire pits, outdoor ping pong, a communal herb garden, adult tree house, tea pavilion, stargazing observation deck, social courtyards, children’s playground and a covered dog run.
“It’s an honor to be collaborating with Extell on this exceptional property,” says Compass’ Heather McDonough Domi. “One Manhattan Square offers consumers a rare and unique lifestyle that is not found at any other project in the city. The incredible 360-degree helicopter views, paired with every conceivable amenity—and the exceptionally low carrying costs—make for an incomparable opportunity.”
Ownership at One Manhattan Square starts at $1.2 million with low carrying costs and a 20-year tax abatement. Extell is offering several initiatives at the building, including a Deferred Closing and Rent-to-Own Program. Under the Deferred Closing Program, a buyer signs a contract and provides a 10% non-refundable deposit. The buyer can move into their home, live there without paying any rent or common charges and close within 12 months of contract signing.
One Manhattan Square also offers a Rent-to-Own Program, which allows residents to lease a home, move in immediately and experience firsthand the lifestyle and value One Manhattan Square has to offer. Should residents decide to purchase their home within 12 months, Extell will credit a full year’s rent towards the purchase price.
Extell Marketing Group is the exclusive sales and marketing firm for One Manhattan Square. For more information, visit www.OneManhattanSquare.com or call 212.252.1560.
Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.
Tips For Your Curly Hair For Winter
Winter is a brutal season for all types of hair but one of the most difficult types of hair to keep and maintain healthy during the colder months is curly hair. Curly hair is some of the most temperamental types of hair that changes according to the season, and for winter this is the season that truly pushes our hair to the limit. The cold air dries the hair out and makes it nearly impossible to keep the hair from drying out, becoming dull, and quite honestly looking like a hot mess. But luckily for all my curly-headed people out there, I have experimented and narrowed down some amazing products and tips to help all different curl types.
Deep Conditioning and Hair Masks
Deep conditioning curly hair is the best thing you can do to protect the hair from drying out and making it look replenished and healthy. Deep conditioning fortifies the hair with nutrients, moisture, and protein and helps prevent breakage and brittleness, and it keeps the curls hydrated. Depending on how dry your hair gets, you can deep condition as much as you need, I usually deep condition once a week but you can do it up to 2-3 times a week. Another tip for a more homemade, DIY approach to a deep conditioner is using an overly ripe avocado and mashing it up and putting extra virgin olive oil and mixing them together. Massage the mixture into the hair and let sit for half an hour, rinse and wash normally.
Kinky-Curly’s Stellar Strands is an amazing deep conditioner that helps curly hair that is prone to dryness in the winter. Stellar Strands is a deep hydrating treatment enriched with Macadamia and Argan Oil for intense moisture and shine, Stellar Strands rejuvenates dry, brittle hair and strengthens weak strands. Elasticity is improved and breakage is reduced. Stellar Strands maintains the hair’s natural shine, silkiness and softness.
Kinky-Curly Stellar Strands (8 oz.) $13.00
Another hair mask that I highly recommend is SH-RD which is a Taiwanese hair care brand that uses rosemary to stimulate hair growth, soften hair, maintain moisture for the scalp and accentuate curls. SH-RD Protein Cream is formulated Silk Protein Complex, which combines the moisture and protection of silk amino acid and hydrolyzed silk protein. This product smooths and seals the cuticle while locking in hydration and strengthening the hair. UV Protection/Heat Protection/Chlorine Damage Protection.
SH-RD Protein Cream (2.71oz) $28.00
Oils
Natural oils play a vital role in the health of your curls but during the winter, hair can feel dry and brittle. Below are some ways you can incorporate oil into your hair routine. The natural oils that your scalp produces travels down the length of your hair shaft to protect it from the elements and moisturize your curls. The more twists and turns in each strand the harder it is for sebum to reach the full length of your hair. The result is hair that can sometimes appear frizzy, dull and coarse.
TIP: Combat dryness by adding oil to your routine. Oils have natural conditioning properties, but also work to seal moisture into the hair shaft, so a hot oil treatment is a great way to get the most out of all these benefits. Adding oils encourages the cuticle layer to close and seal in moisture, creating a protective barrier.
TIP: Split and damaged ends can cause excessive frizz and keep your curls from looking defined. Lightly coat your ends with oil to temporarily smooth and seal them. This will reduce the appearance of fraying and dryness, as well as protect against further damage.
TIP: Smooth down frizzy, dry ends or halo frizz at the crown once your hair is fully dried and styled. You have to be careful how much you use: too much can weigh your curls down and leave your curls looking limp and stringy.
TIP: If you’re using oil post-styling, try a dime-sized amount. You can always add more if your hair or curls are extra thirsty. Rub your palms together and gently scrunch the oil throughout your hair or smooth it down the length of your hair, by sandwiching your curls between your palms.
*Tips were given to us by Sahar Saidi, CEO & Founder of curly hair company LUS
Shampoo and Conditioner
Choosing a good shampoo and conditioner can truly transform your hair routine. Some products that I truly recommend to use for maintaining curly hair during the winter is AQUIS. This brand makes products that help hair combat water which truly dries out the hair and makes it more prone to breakage. “Wet Hair is Weak Hair.” AQUIS is pioneering a revolutionary science-based approach to haircare, transforming your hair’s natural strength, vitality and beauty. AQUIS works with the biology of your hair, restoring its strength from the inside out--unlike so many quick-fix, temporary solutions which only mask damage. You get healthier, more beautiful hair in less time and with less effort.
AQUIS Prime Water Defense Prewash ($29/Sephora.com) - the essential first step in the haircare routine that is applied BEFORE exposure to water, when hair is most vulnerable, to protect from damage. Clinically proven to reduce hair swelling by 46%.
Fight water damage while rebalancing hair’s natural pH and moisture levels with AQUIS Prime Rebalancing Hair Wash ($26/Sephora.com). Cleanse and hydrate while fortifying hair’s natural defenses against damage, thinning and color fade.
AQUIS Prime Restorative Leave-In Conditioner ($26/Sephora.com) - this lightweight mist replenishes, hydrates, and eliminates tangles while enhancing hair’s core strength to improve the quality, texture, and strength of hair for softer, more vibrant hair that is easier to manage and style.
Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.
How Much Does It Cost to Sell a House?
Dreams of downsizing your home for a luxury beachfront condo are attainable at any age. The trick is selling the right home in the right market. But have you set enough money aside in your budget to cover selling costs? In some areas, costs are quite high. For instance, if you area selling a house for sale Vancouver, you can pay a small fortune!"
The cost to sell a house varies based on the type of housing market you live in. If you're preparing to sell your home, research the most common expenses to avoid being let down by a smaller than expected profit.
For a list of all the standard costs of selling a home, read on.
Repairs
Preparing your home for sale can take a matter of weeks or months depending on buyer expectations in your market. Some homes only need a freshly cut lawn to attract buyers, while others might attract more scrutiny.
There are ways to get around extensive home repairs, but there's no way to avoid them altogether. The average cost to repair a home before selling is $1,500.
A common way to avoid renovations is to lower your sales price to reflect the need for them. But ignoring some major fixes could complicate the selling process. Here's a list of common repairs that may be mandatory before you can sell your home.
Building Code Violations
There are few ways to get around a house being up to code before selling. But to avoid a messy closing, it's best to take care of the repairs before the buyer puts a house under contract.
Building code violations are sure to come up during a home inspection, which is required by lenders before they will issue a loan. By bringing your home up to code before finding a buyer, you eliminate barriers to the buyer getting financing.
Structural Defects
Structural defects to your home should also be addressed before marketing your home. You can get away with selling the home 'as-is' and not repairing defects, but this could lengthen the sales process.
You're far more familiar with the nature of the structural issues than a buyer or home inspector seeing your home for the first time. Home inspectors tend to be more conservative when hired by the lender.
By leaving structural issues to be examined by an outsider, you run the risk of a higher estimate of the damage than what's present. Take matters into your own hands by issuing the repair yourself and documenting the process.
Safety Issues
Any safety issues are a no-brainer to repair before allowing walkthroughs of your home. Consider the liability of accidents involving the buyer and other third parties while your home is under contract.
Take the time to repair loose steps or bad wiring no matter how small the safety issue seems. Doing so can help you avoid unneeded headaches while marketing and finalizing the sale of your home.
Commissions
One of the biggest costs of selling a home is the commission paid to a realtor. Good realtors earn this money by helping you market your home to a qualified list of potential buyers.
When you find the right realtor, the length of time your home is on the market is shortened greatly. Realtors understand the legal process of selling a home in your local market and can help you manage your expectations of 'days on the market.'
Be sure to vet your realtor thoroughly before signing any exclusive agreements. Standard realtor commissions range from 5 to 6 percent of the sales price.
On a $300,000 home, real estate commissions can range from $15,000 to $18,000. This is a hefty fee for an agent who can't answer questions about your market or who can't present you with qualified buyers within a reasonable selling period.
Here's a list of key questions to ask your realtor before hiring them to sell your home:
• How many homes did you sell last year?
• Are you licensed?
• Have you ever sold a home in this neighborhood?
• Should I expect to pay closing costs?
• What is your sales and marketing plan?
• How long do you estimate the sales process will take?
• Do you have recommendations on staging?
• How often will I receive updates from you?
This is a starting list of questions to help you compare realtors. A realtor who can't answer any of the following questions could leave you doing all the work while still requiring a commission.
Choosing to sell your home on your own is a viable way to avoid this expense. For sale by owner means you list and market the property to potential buyers without the help of a realtor. Researching the housing market yourself and waiting for the right deal can save you tens of thousands of dollars in real estate fees.
Liens
A lien is a creditor's legal right to take a portion of a property to repay a debt. If you have liens on your home, you will have to pay the debt when you sell.
Not all liens require payment in full. Contact the debtor to make payment arrangements or negotiate a settlement amount before placing your home on the market.
Transfer Taxes
Transfer taxes cover the administrative expense of local municipalities on updating a transfer of homeownership.
Not every state requires you to pay transfer taxes when you sell a home. If you live in a state that does require them, consider asking the buyer to cover the cost. Buyers are usually responsible for this tax though sellers often cover it as a purchase incentive.
Closing Costs
Closing costs range between 2 and 4 percent of the sales price.
Closing costs can be paid by the buyer, seller, or both depending on the purchase agreement. In seller's markets, the demand for housing is great which leaves buyers willing to shell out more cash for properties.
In a buyer's market, buyers have far more options causing sellers to compete to attract viable customers. This means the seller almost always covers closing costs.
Reducing the Cost to Sell a House
The idea of missing out on the chance to sell your home can be daunting. But there are ways to reduce the cost to sell a house without losing potential buyers.
Depending on your market, you can offer incentives like leaving behind your flat-screen TV instead of adding fresh paint to the walls. Another negotiation might include purchasing new appliances instead of covering closing costs.
Whether selling your home with a realtor or alone, you set the terms of the agreement. For more real estate tips and tricks, check our blog for updates.
Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.
What Should You Know Before Visiting Aspen
Aspen is not only a winter destination for amazing skiing and winter sports but is also an amazing spring and summer vacation destination for anyone. Aspen is home to one of the country’s best contemporary art museums, high-end restaurants, boutiques, as well as the globally recognized Aspen Institute.
The relaxed elegance, the small-town vibe and its jaw-dropping mountain scenery gives Aspen the uniqueness that makes it one of our top getaway destinations. To ensure that your trip is peaceful and hassle-free, we have curated the perfect guide of Aspen so that you won’t have to spend your vacation looking through thousands of sites.
Where To Stay In Aspen
The Little Nell - 675 E Durant Ave
The only 5-star, 5-diamond Aspen hotel, The Little Nell is the hotel to stay when in Aspen. Featuring 92 rooms that are all different so that it will accommodate anyone’s preferences and needs, rooms that overlook Aspen Mountain, the Red Mountain range or Continental Divide, and an amazing staff and services that will make any request possible. The Little Nell, with its health center, pool and jacuzzi, in-room amenities, pet amenities, and even an Audi test drive to experience Aspen, is one of the best hotels to stay when in Aspen.
What To Do In Aspen
The Maroon Bells
Known as the most photographed place in Colorado, The Maroon Bells is one of top things to do Aspen for its breathtaking views. “A reflective lake and two giant snow-striped mountaintops, named Maroon Peak and North Maroon Peak, anchor a blissful panorama exemplified by a symphony of color that changes with the seasons.” There are three hiking trails (Maroon Lake Scenic, Maroon Creek, and Crater Lake) to take which will allow you to experience the true beauty of The Maroon Bells.
Aspen Art Museum
While in Aspen be sure to check out the amazing work and artists at the Aspen Art Museum. The museum is a non-collecting institution that presents the newest, most important evolutions in international contemporary art. With its innovative and timely exhibitions, education and public programs, immersive activities, and community events, this museum is worth visiting while in Aspen.
Where To Eat And Drink In Aspen
Cache Cache - 205 S Mill Street
An upscale French-American cuisine restaurant with an extensive wine list, Cache Cache is one restaurant that you must visit when in Aspen. With its authentic food and wine combined with its warm atmosphere and impeccable service, this restaurant will for sure make for an amazing meal and experience. Featuring local ingredients and a focus on clean and satisfying food, Cache Cache is committed to excellence to ensure its guests with the best service. The menu features items such as Colorado Prime Filet Mignon with whipped potatoes, brussels leaves and dijon-green peppercorn sauce, braised red cabbage en cocotte and even Alaskan king crab. The wine list at Cache Cache changes everyday due to the fact that Aspen is a global destination and that their list should represent the viticultural world.
Bosq - 312 S Mill Street
Step into Bosq and you’ll be transported to a place of complete bliss with its clean look and expertly curated color palette to make this restaurant look like the perfect modern alpine getaway. This Chinese restaurant is an innovative place that is focusing on a unique and fresh approach with flavors from local farms. The menu features items such as ora king salmon with local wild watercress, celeriac, ink potatoes, and buttermilk and dill, Peking duck, and also wagyu steak. Bosq is one of the most talked-about restaurants in Aspen right now, so be sure to check out one of the hottest restaurants.
Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.
Champagne To Ring In The New Year
Although apple cider [whether spiked or plain] is a fall favorite, it isn’t uncommon for people to come back to the elegant classic that is champagne; and not just during the fall-winter season. Think engagement parties, weddings, bachelor/ette celebrations and any other significant life event, they all have the classy touch of the bubbly drink.
With New Years coming up, we wanted to share with you the best champagnes to ring in the New Year with.
There is, really, no known reason why people chose it as the trademark of an important moment, other than it being delicious, meeting the Gold Standard [for its golden appearance] and being an over-all drink to serve to guests. The popularity of it peaked dyring the ‘20s, when the New Rich made a point of bringing the house party scene to a climax.
Among the most popular brands we have Moët & Chandon, a French branch that prides itself in the quality of their products. Krug founded by Joseph Krug in 1843,s one of the famous Champagne houses that formed part of the Grande Marques. And Martini & Rossi an Itialian prosecco that is sure to delight guests and hosts alike this winter – without breaking the bank!
Moët Imperial Rosé — At a retail price of $49.99, this sparkling pink drink is aromatic and savory, beautiful to look at and fun to serve at parties.
Krug Clos du Mesnil 2004 - Crafted from Chardonnay grapes from the Clos du Mesnil plot in 2004, it’s an ideal pour for a truly special holiday. Clos du Mesnil 2004 offers expressive aromas of toffee apple, caramel, ripe citrus fruits, and lightly toasted nuts. On the palate, initial hints of brown sugar, candied ginger, and pecan give way to notes of citrus fruits as it bursts into an explosion of freshness enhanced by a very long and elegant finish. At $850 this bottle is perfect for a New Years toast.
Veuve Clicquot Colorama Collection - A unique case offering for Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label and Non-Vintage Rosé, inspired by Veuve Clicquot’s iconic yellow and pink hues that have long been synonymous with the brand. Shaped as traditional paint tubes, Veuve Clicquot Colorama Collection pays homage to the aesthetic of Veuve Clicquot Champagne and keeps your 750mL bottle of Yellow Label making it the perfect gift for your favorite party host or Champagne enthusiast. SRP $60.00+
Moët Brut Imperial — ($39.99) And, of course, the all-time favorite couldn’t be missing from the lost. The Brut Imperial is the most sold Moët product in the world. SocialVignerons.com rates it as a 91/100, which pretty much gives away the excellent quality of the product. .
Martini & Rossi Prosecco DOC - ($14.99) Unique to the Veneto-Friuli area in Northeast Italy, this versatile bubbly is deliciously dry with a fruit-forward style. Aromas of apple, pear and thyme are complimented by a refreshing, crisp acidity. An ideal hostess gift, this prosecco can effortlessly carry a meal from appetizers through desserts.
Meiomi Sparkling - ($26.99) On the nose, aromas of green apple are laced with hints of peach nectar. Flavors of crunchy pears, zesty citrus, and honey layer over a slight yeastiness and a fresh minerality. Enjoy this sparkling wine with fresh oysters topped with a classic mignonette sauce, sushi, warm brie, or a fresh mixed berry tart.
2006 vintage of Palmes D’or - ($136) Offers the finest crus in champagne and is aged for at least six years to further enhance its delicate flavor. The bottle has hundreds of distinct dimples, mirroring a disco ball – perfect for New Year’s eve!
Have something you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.
Featured
Where To Host Your Holiday Party In New York City
These unique but classy spots in the city scream business-professional, while still keeping it casual enough for some fun.
Read MoreClosings Begin at 350 West 71st Street
DNA Development announced that closings have commenced at 350 West 71st Street, the successful Upper West Side luxury conversion that seamlessly combines two historic pre-war buildings into one stunning contemporary condominium with a classic façade. As construction nears completion, the seven-story building’s 38 elegant residences and bespoke amenities are coming to life, as DNA welcomes its first residents.
“We are excited to reach this important milestone at 350 West 71st Street and look forward to officially welcoming residents into their beautiful new homes,” said David L. Berger, Partner at DNA Development.
Designed by DXA Studio and located on a quiet cul-de-sac between West End Avenue and Riverside Boulevard, 350 West 71st Street offers a rare opportunity to purchase a new home on a classic townhouse block with two-bedroom residences starting below $2 million. The luxury building brings two-to-four-bedroom homes to this charming and peaceful Upper West Side block, seven of which offer private outdoor space including four spectacular penthouses. Two of the four penthouses are already in contract.
“350 West 71st Street is the ideal residence for those who want to live in a newly constructed building with modern amenities without giving up the historic charm that is quintessential to the Upper West Side,” said Jeffrey Stockwell, Sales Director at Compass Development.
350 West 71st Street is located in the heart of the Upper West Side, surrounded by an abundance of retail, dining and cultural attractions. Central Park, Riverside Park, as well as the Museum of Natural History, Lincoln Center and the Beacon Theater are all within close proximity, and the building is conveniently located two blocks from the 72nd Street and Broadway 1,2,3, subway stop, offering residents a fast commute to midtown and downtown Manhattan.
Pricing for current availability begins at $1,745,000 for a two-bedroom residence. Compass Development is the exclusive sales and marketing firm for the building.
Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.
Álvaro Siza's, 611 West 56th Street Tops Out
The first United States project by Pritzker Prize-winning master architect Álvaro Siza 611 West 56th Street located in Midtown West, has officially topped out at 37 stories with a monolithic four-story limestone crown. 611 West 56th Street will have 80 exquisitely crafted residences, with interiors designed by renowned interior architects Gabellini Sheppard Associates.
See below the updated photos, credit: Joao Morgado
Incredible Things You Should Try On Your Next Vacation
For some people, taking a vacation is all about hitting a beach and relaxation; for others, it’s about so much more than that. Many people nowadays head on vacation, all in the hope of being able to experience something different from the norm.
In today’s post, we are going to examine some things you should do or try on your next vacation. Whether you are heading off around the world or staying in the same country, there are still many things you can try to broaden your horizons.
Explore New Activities
For most of us, we spend our lives doing the same things every day of the week; after all, humans are creatures of habit.
So when it comes to being on vacation, there is no better time to break this habit and try something brand new. Instead of heading to the beach to relax, why not consider something like Side Bet Sport Fishing Charters? Fishing is often very misunderstood, and unless you’ve experienced the thrill of sport fishing, you really haven’t felt a rush.
If you are feeling adventurous, you could even consider some other watersports while you are at the beach. To experience more fun and recreational activities with nature, you will surely enjoy going to Kiawah Island Vacation Rentals. While watersports aren’t a new concept, they are a great way to cut loose and really get the blood pumping. Who knows, this vacation you may discover you’re an adrenaline junkie, and you didn’t even know it.
Expand Your Taste Buds
As we mentioned in the previous section, humans are creatures of habit; this also goes for the food we eat.
Unbelievably three-fifths of Americans say they won’t try the local cuisine when they go on vacation, with a world of flavors available; this is ludicrous. One of the most incredible ways to experience the culture of a new city or even country is to try some of the local delicacies as they can really open you up to a whole new world.
Food is one of the joys of life that keeps on giving, and by simply opening your mind just a little bit on your next vacation, you may end up surprising yourself and your taste buds.
Take In The Culture
Another thing we are all guilty of when we travel somewhere new is not embracing the local culture. When it comes to visiting a new city or country, it matters not in the world where it is; there will be certain local customs that could be vital for you to know.
Taking the time to learn a little about the locals and the culture of the place you are visiting is not only polite, but it may also open up some brand new doorways for you.
When locals see you embracing their local culture, they tend to warm to you more. The more people warm to you, the greater the opportunities that will come your way.
Hopefully, if you are looking for something a little different from your next vacation, one or all of these things will help you discover a side of yourself you never knew existed.
Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.
Our Favorite Listing: A Prospect Heights Home With 1000 Square Feet Of Private Outdoor Space
Our favorite listing this week is located at 662 Bergen Street, Apt 1B, in Brooklyn Heights offering 2 beds, 1.5 baths and interior measuring nearly 1,500 square feet in addition to just shy of 1000 square feet of private outdoor space, an extremely rare find.
The listing asking price is $1,395,000. Jamie Fedorko and Jessica Swersey of Warburg are the listing agents.
Photo Credit: Warburg Realty
Enter the upper level of the home to an open, 26 foot living/dining room and sparkling modern kitchen with GE Profile and Bosch stainless appliances. There is room for dedicated dining and living spaces, just beyond which lies the first of two levels of private outdoor space. Off the living room you'll find the oversized master bedroom and the luxurious, spa-like full bathroom which has both an en suite entrance along with an entrance from the living room.
On the lower level of what feels like your own private townhouse is an enormous second bedroom along with a massive, open media room which can easily be converted to a third sleeping area (please note that the apartment was originally developed as a one-bedroom according to the offering plan). There is another half-bathroom downstairs along with your own washer/dryer and access to the lower level of the home's impressive two-tiered outdoor space with plenty of room to garden, dine, and beyond. Enormous windows on both levels, pristine hardwood floors, incredible custom closets, a built-in sound system and a separate deeded storage space complete the picture of this exceedingly special home
For more information click here.
Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.
Related Stories
Featured