How To Sell Your House: A Step-By-Step Guide

Are you currently selling your house, and relocating somewhere new? You may be doing this for work, or because you want to live your best 'green' life at an iconic NYC building. Whatever the reasons are, moving house isn't always the easiest experience. In this article, we'll guide you through the process of selling your house. Thanks to these step-by-step instructions, the process will be as smooth and successful as possible.

Set a Price

It's important that the price you set is attractive to potential buyers, while ensuring you get a fair return on your investment. You should consider factors such as location, the condition of the house, and market trends. Conducting research on similar properties in your area can give you an idea of what other sellers are asking for their homes. By setting a realistic and competitive asking price from the start, you can increase interest in your property, and lead to a quicker sale.

If you overprice initially to get more money, your home could sit on the market longer than anticipated. This would delay your plans for moving, and you could lose more money in the long run. It's worth consulting specialists in the valuation of properties because they'll work with industry-leading software and use their local expertise. Registered teams of professionally certified valuers can assess all types of properties, delivering the valuations via easy-to-use platforms.

Market Your Home

It's not enough to simply put a "For Sale" sign in your front yard and hope for the best. You need to actively promote your property in order to attract potential buyers and get the best possible price. There are a number of websites that specialize in real estate listings (such as Zillow or Trulia) where you can create an account and list your property for free. Make sure you include high-quality photos of both the interior and exterior of your home, as well as detailed descriptions of its features.

You could also share photos and information about your property on Facebook, Twitter, and any other platforms you regularly use. Ask friends and family members to share your posts with their networks as well. Word-of-mouth can also be a powerful tool when it comes to selling a home. Finally, don't forget about traditional marketing methods like flyers or newspaper ads. These methods can be effective in reaching local buyers who might not be searching for properties online.

Prepare Your Home

You need to make sure your home looks its best, so take care of any necessary repairs, and give your space a fresh coat of paint if needed. Buyers want to see a property that's move-in ready, so fixing leaky faucets or repairing broken windows will go a long way toward making a good impression. When it comes to painting, use a palette of neutral colors. They're the safest choice, as they appeal to the widest range of buyers. If needed, you can add pops of color in accent walls, or through decor pieces like throw pillows or curtains.

Lastly, don't forget about curb appeal. The exterior of your home is the first thing potential buyers will see when they arrive for a showing. Make sure the lawn's mowed and any weeds are pulled. Add some potted plants or flowers by the front door, and touch up any chipped paint on shutters or doors.

Conduct Showings

Make sure your home is clean and decluttered before any potential buyers arrive. This means removing any personal items (e.g. family photos) or clutter that might distract from the space itself. Try to present a blank canvas so that visitors can envision themselves residing there. If you have a large number of bulky items, consider putting them into temporary storage until your house is sold. Also, make sure you keep any children or pets away from the house during the viewing.

Be prepared to answer questions about the property's history, and any renovations or upgrades you've made. Also, let potential buyers explore the space on their own, without feeling pressured or rushed. Finally, don't forget to follow up with each prospective buyer after the showing has occurred. This way you can gauge their interest level, address any concerns they may have, or answer any further questions.

Be Prepared To Negotiate 

While you may have set a certain price for your home (as discussed earlier), it’s important to be open to negotiation. This is because buyers often come in with lower offers. During these discussions, try not to take things personally, and remain calm throughout the process. Be clear about what's negotiable and what isn’t. Perhaps you’re willing to make repairs or include appliances in the sale. It’s also helpful to have a bottom-line price in mind so that you know when it’s time to walk away from negotiations.

These chats often involve give-and-take on both sides, and the art is to find a compromise that works for you both. Perhaps the buyer will agree to pay more if they can move in sooner, or if some furnishings are included in the price.

Close The Sale

It's important to close the sale as soon as possible, and one of the best ways to do this is by setting a deadline for offers. This creates a sense of urgency among potential buyers and prompts them to act quickly. It also helps you avoid having your house sit on the market for an extended period of time.

It's worth highlighting any unique features or selling points of your property that may not be found in other houses in the area. This could include things like a large backyard, custom built-ins, or energy-efficient appliances. If you're using a real estate agent during the sales process, they can help you with paperwork once you've accepted an offer.

Thanks to some research and professional advice, you'll be well-placed to sell your house. You'll know what to do at every stage, and will make the best decisions. In turn, you'll get a good sale price and be eager to move to your new home.

The Latest Trends In NYC Interiors And Home Decor

Creating a comfortable and stylish home environment has always been a priority for New Yorkers, but in 2023, it has become more important than ever. According to a survey, the average New Yorker spends $200 to $400 per square foot on home renovations, while others can spend up to $800 on extreme conditions.

From incorporating natural elements into the interior design to creating statement rooms that captivate, several interior and home decor trends can transform your home into a unique living space. Let's explore some of the latest trends that can help you achieve your design goals, whether you're looking to create a cozy work nook or revamp your entire space.

Gallery Walls and Wall Frames

Gallery walls and wall frames have become increasingly popular as a way to add personality and interest to a home. Instead of leaving your walls bare, gallery walls offer a unique way to showcase your favorite art, photographs, and wall frames. You can create a gallery wall using a mix of different-sized frames or choose a more uniform look with frames of the same size.

Some popular ways to create a gallery wall include arranging frames in a grid pattern or creating a salon-style wall with frames arranged more organically. In addition to adding interest to a room, gallery walls are a great way to use wall space and add depth. With the wide variety of picture frames available, it's easy to find frames that fit your style and the overall design of your space.

Bold Colors and Patterns

New York City-based interior designers are embracing bold colors and patterns as a way to add interest and personality to home decor. Designer Sasha Bikoff suggests incorporating colorful and patterned textiles, wallpaper, and artwork to create a statement in a room. She encourages mixing patterns in unexpected ways and using bold colors to add drama to a space.

In addition to Bikoff's advice, jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire blue, and ruby red are popular choices for creating a sophisticated and dramatic look. Graphic patterns like geometric prints and stripes are also on-trend, and incorporating these elements through accessories like throw pillows, curtains, or wall art from MangoHoo can add interest to a room without overwhelming the space. The trend towards bold colors and patterns in NYC home decor allows homeowners to create unique and expressive living spaces that reflect their personal style.

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Design

Sustainable and eco-friendly designs have become a significant trend in home decor, and it's not hard to see why. In New York City, there has been a recent surge in demand for locally sourced and sustainable furniture from small businesses and artisans specializing in eco-friendly design. This trend is a reflection of the growing awareness of environmental sustainability among NYC residents, who are keen to reduce their carbon footprint and support local businesses. From furniture made from sustainable materials such as bamboo or recycled plastic to energy-efficient lighting, there are plenty of ways to make your home more eco-friendly and stylish.

These are some of the latest interior and home decor trends that you can incorporate into your home. Adding nature-inspired elements, bold colors, patterns, sustainable and eco-friendly design, maximalism, or vintage and retro vibes can create a stylish and comfortable space that reflects your personality and style. So, get creative and make your home interiors reflect your taste and style!

The Home Buyer Rescission Period (HBRP) Explained: 4 Things To Know

Last January, the government of British Columbia, Canada rolled out a new real estate policy known as the Home Buyer Rescission Period (HBRP). According to the British Columbia Financial Services Authority (BCFSA), the HBRP gives homebuyers up to three business days to back out of an offer on a home after accepting it. 

The HBRP is supposed to serve as an extra layer of consumer protection in the heated real estate market. However, three months after taking effect, multiple reports suggest its impact could have been more impressive. One realty reported that only two of their 300 transactions took advantage of the policy, all while the market has cooled down in recent months. 

Regardless, there are no plans to rescind the policy (no pun intended) as of this writing. Despite the poor timing, the HBRP may still help active and prospective homebuyers. To give you some ideas, here are a few crucial things to know about this policy:

1. Not All Homes Are Eligible 

The BCFSA states that all detached and semi-detached homes, townhouses, and other multi-unit dwellings are eligible for the HBRP. Other qualified properties include residential strata lots (as defined by the Strata Property Act), deployed prefabricated homes, and cooperative interests (as defined by the Real Estate Development Marketing Act) that guarantee the right of occupation. 

That said, such homes aren’t eligible for the HBRP if they’re: 

• Located on leased land 

• Sold at an auction 

• Sold under a court order 

Generally, the buyer must inform the seller of their intent to withdraw within the period. Sellers can’t waive a buyer’s right to withdraw from a deal nor require a buyer to give their reason for doing so. However, such intent should be in writing, either in a separate form or integrated into the sale contract.

2. Rescission Isn’t Free 

Advocates believe that the HBRP will make the playing field between buyers and sellers more level, especially regarding penalties. Under Section 6 of the HBRP Regulation, rescinding homebuyers must pay sellers equivalent to 0.25% of the property’s purchase price as stated in the sale contract. For example, if a property’s stated price is CAD$500,000, the rescission fee is CAD$1,250. You can use a home buyer rescission period calculator to calculate the fee. 

If the buyer made a deposit before the rescission, Subsection 2 indicates that the seller must get the payment from there, whether or not it’s enough. Any remainder after deducting the fee must be returned to the buyer. The same applies to deposits made in a brokerage trust account. 

Neither party can negotiate a lower or higher rescission fee as the rate is fixed. However, legal experts agree that it can change if they agree on a counteroffer with a purchase price different from the previous one.

3. Only For Deals Closed On Or After January 3rd 

The HBRP has been in discussion since 2022, only taking effect on January 3, 2023. Given this, only property deals made on or after the effective date can benefit from the rescission period. That also includes deals in negotiations before January 3 and only closed on or after the effective date. 

Speaking of the latter, the contract for such deals may not have the HBRP disclosure statement that’s now required in current and future contracts. Section 42 of the Property Law Act, one of two new additions following the HBRP taking effect, states that the rescission period still applies whether or not it’s stated in the contract, provided the property is eligible. 

Nevertheless, Section 57.1 of the Real Estate Services Rules requires sellers to disclose buyers’ right to rescission. The most common approach is filling out the BCFSA’s HBRP disclosure form and affixing it to the contract.

4. Weekend Holidays Aren’t Counted Twice 

The policy is clear about the period’s duration, three business or working days. Most offices, including real estate offices and banks, don’t usually work on weekends or holidays, so such days are excluded from the count. In this case, the following day falls on a non-weekend or non-holiday. The term ‘holiday’ in this context includes nationwide and B.C.-specific holidays.  

But what if a holiday falls on a weekend, such as this year’s Truth and Reconciliation Day on a Saturday? The BCFSA states that weekend holidays don’t influence the duration of the period. For example, a buyer that confirms the deal on September 29 still has until October 4 to rescind. Also, note that the count begins on the business day after the confirmation.  

Knowing this bit, even if it sounds straightforward, is essential. But for better guidance, communicate with a real estate professional should you decide to exercise your right to rescind a recently confirmed deal. 

Conclusion 

As far as industry analysts and leaders claim, the HBRP might not have come at an ideal time. Then again, the future is rife with uncertainties, and the HBRP may shine when Canada enters another real estate slump. The good news is that the government continues fine-tuning the policy to serve its purpose more effectively.

How to Deep Clean Your Kitchen Before a Residential Property Showing: 4 Key Tips

When you’ve got potential buyers coming to view your property, or prospective tenants checking it out, then it’s key to have it as clean and tidy as possible.

The kitchen is a room that can become particularly grimy and gross over time, so a deep clean in the run-up to this event is important. Here are some tips and tricks to make the cleaning process less of a chore.

Make Sure to Clear Out the Clutter: A Must-Do Before a Property Showing

Nothing can detract from an otherwise perfect presentation like clutter. So to make sure your kitchen looks its best, get rid of all unnecessary items lying around on countertops or tucked away in cupboards.

Focus on clearing out food packaging and other objects that could take away from highlighting how much storage space there really is in this room. Don’t forget about those hidden corners too, because dust bunnies have no place here!

Don't Forget About Your Cupboards and Cabinets: Give Them an Extra Shine

A deep clean of your kitchen isn’t complete without taking a look at those cupboards and cabinets. Wipe down all surfaces with warm soapy water, then give them a buffing to remove any streaks or stains.

You can also use some natural ingredients like vinegar or baking soda for extra shine. Make sure you throw out anything that has expired, as well as wipe away dust from the shelves, as potential buyers will be peering into every nook and cranny of your storage setup.

Get Ready for Some Serious Deep Cleaning with Tried and Tested Methods

Time to get down to business and crack on with some serious deep cleaning. Start by wiping down the kitchen surfaces, getting rid of any grease or grime that has accumulated over time.

Remember to give your appliances some love as well. Subject them to a serious scrubbing using natural ingredients like lemon juice and baking soda, which can make short work of those tough stains. If you’re worried about damaging them, refer to the manufacturer’s handbook to ensure you’re using the right products and cleaning techniques.

Also, take the time to deal with the kitchen floors too. Sweep away the surface layer of dirt and dust, before giving them a thorough mop with soapy water, or an appropriate cleaner. Again, be cognizant of the products you use, as certain materials need a gentler approach, or you could end up doing more harm than good.

Alternatively, Hire a Professional Cleaning Team

If all the deep cleaning is too much effort, or if you are pressed for time before your residential property showing, hiring a professional team might be the best option for cleaning your NYC apartment.

They’ll have their own tried and tested methods to make sure every corner of your kitchen looks pristine and spotless. Plus, they can help you with any last-minute touches that could add value to your presentation.

Most importantly, with this approach, there’s no need to worry about missing out on those crucial details when it comes time to show off your home. And you’d be surprised how much difference it makes to have totally spotless communal areas on display. This helps to justify any costs you incur from getting the pros involved.

The Bottom Line

You want the people to view your home to see it at its best, and if your kitchen looks worse for wear, then they’ll have a harder time imagining themselves enjoying life on the property. Deep cleaning is of course a transferable skill, so roll your sleeves up or get experts to complete the work, and you’ll be laughing.

Your Ultimate Guide to Achieving the Perfect Pout

If you’ve ever dreamt of having the perfect pout, with full lips and a flawless finish, then this is an article you won’t want to miss! Whether it’s a natural look that you aspire to or stunningly glamorous Hollywood-ready lip glamour, your ultimate guide to achieving the ideal pout begins here. Learn all about the tips and tricks used by top makeup artists and beauty stylists behind some of today's most iconic looks so that you can finally realize your inner diva dreams. Get ready for gorgeousness as we take you on a journey of lush lip designs—all made possible when equipped with the right knowledge plus expert guidance from our trusted insight into workflow background information. So buckle up; let's make magic happen together!

Choose the Right Shade of Lipstick for Your Skin Tone

Choosing the right shade of lipstick for your skin tone can be daunting, but with a bit of experimentation, it's easy to find a perfect match. Don't be afraid to try different shades and wear them around before deciding on the one that's right for you. After all, great lipstick can enhance your natural beauty and boost your confidence. However, if you are not satisfied with the size of your lips, you should then look for the best lip filler and try lip augmentation to improve the volume and shape of your lips. This way, you won't need to worry about finding the right shade of lipstick since all colors will look amazing on you! With so many options available, it's important to keep in mind your skin's undertones when selecting a lipstick. Whether you have warm or cool undertones, there's a shade out there that will complement your complexion perfectly. So, have fun with it, and don't settle for anything less than the perfect shade!

Exfoliate Your Lips Regularly

Our lips are one of the most noticeable features on our faces, and a perfect lipstick application can enhance their beauty. However, it can be quite frustrating to apply lipstick on chapped and flaky lips. The solution lies in exfoliating your lips regularly! Exfoliating helps remove dead skin cells and creates a smooth canvas for your lipstick. So, say goodbye to chapped lips and hello to a perfect pout by incorporating lip exfoliation into your beauty routine. Not only will it give you a smooth base for your lipstick, but it will also improve the health and texture of your lips. Trust us, your lips will thank you!

Apply Lip Primer Before Applying Lipstick

For those looking to achieve a flawless lip look, applying a lip primer should not be overlooked. Lip primer acts as a base that helps moisturize and prepare your lips for lipstick application. It also creates an even texture, smooths out any lines, and prevents the color from bleeding or fading throughout the day. Applying a lip primer before lipstick will not only make your lips look healthier but will also extend the wear of your favorite shade. Don't let dry, flaky lips ruin your lipstick game – give lip primer a try and enjoy picture-perfect pouty lips all day long.

Use Lip Liner to Outline Your Lips

Lip liner not only defines your lips but also helps to prevent your lipstick from smudging or bleeding throughout the day. To start, choose a shade that complements your lipstick and skin tone. Then, starting from the center of your upper lip, draw a line following the natural curve of your cupid's bow. Next, work your way to the corners of your mouth, carefully outlining the shape of your lips. Finally, fill in any gaps with the same liner and apply your lipstick. With this simple technique, you'll have luscious, defined lips that will last all day.

Take Care of Chapped Lips with a Moisturizing Balm or Mask to Prevent Flaking

If you're tired of dealing with the discomfort and unsightly appearance of chapped lips, then it's time to invest in a good moisturizing balm or mask. These products can work wonders in preventing flaking and keeping your pout soft and smooth. Whether you prefer a simple, no-frills balm or a more indulgent mask that soothes and hydrates, there are plenty of options on the market. Some formulas may even contain nourishing ingredients like shea butter or vitamin E to further protect and rejuvenate your lips.

Finding the right lipstick for your skin tone, exfoliating and moisturizing your lips regularly, using a lip primer before application, utilizing lip liner to outline your lips, and taking care of chapped lips with a moisturizing mask or balm are all key steps in achieving a beautiful and long-lasting lip look. Follow these tips and you'll be sure to have a perfect pout in no time!

The Ultimate Guide to Property Maintenance for Business Owners

Maintaining your business’s property can be a daunting task. You may not know where to start, or you might find yourself overwhelmed with all the details of keeping up a building or land. Fortunately, we’ve created this guide to help make property maintenance more accessible and more efficient for business owners. By understanding basic repair principles, identifying common problems, and taking preventative measures, you can keep your property in top condition and create a safe environment for employees and customers. Read on for our ultimate guide to property maintenance!

1. Commercial roofing

Commercial roofing is one of the biggest aspects of property maintenance for business owners. Not only does it protect your building from the elements, but it also adds visual appeal and value to your building. When inspecting a commercial roof, look for signs of damage such as missing or damaged shingles, broken tiles or slate, water pooling on the surface, and sagging areas. The commercial roofing service company you choose should be experienced and reliable, as they’ll need to assess the roof to use the right materials and techniques for making repairs. It’s also important to consider the climate you live in and choose materials suitable for it—for example, if you live in a cold region, you might want to choose a material that can withstand extreme temperatures and won’t crack or warp.

2. Structural repairs

Another important aspect of property maintenance for business owners is structural repairs. Structural damage can cause a great deal of harm to your building, and it’s important to inspect your property regularly to identify potential problems before they become more serious. Common structural issues include foundation cracks, water damage, and pests that can weaken the structure of your building. If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to call a professional right away, so they can assess the situation and recommend the right course of action. Depending on the severity, structural repairs may involve anything from minor patching up or sealing small holes to complete reconstruction or replacement of certain sections or elements.

3. Plumbing

If you own a business with multiple floors or large spaces, regular plumbing maintenance is a must. This includes checking for leaks or blockages, inspecting drains and pipes, testing the water pressure, and keeping an eye out for signs of corrosion or damage. It’s also important to check the water heater and make sure it’s in good working condition—an old or faulty one could cause serious damage to your property if left unchecked. While some minor plumbing issues can be fixed without professional help, large-scale repairs should always be done by a qualified plumber as they have the right tools and expertise to do the job safely and correctly.

4. HVAC

The HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system is crucial for keeping your business property comfortable year-round. Regularly inspecting and cleaning the components of your HVAC system can help ensure it runs optimally and provides efficient heating or cooling. Some common maintenance tasks include cleaning filters to improve air quality and checking electrical connections or blower motors for any signs of damage. It’s also important to make sure that all ducts are clear of dust and dirt buildup, as blocked ducts can cause the system to work harder than necessary, resulting in higher energy bills. If you notice any issues with your system, don’t hesitate to call a professional—they can diagnose the problem and recommend the right course of action. 

5. Landscaping

Landscaping can be an important part of property maintenance for business owners, as it helps create a pleasant atmosphere and adds visual appeal to your building. Regularly mowing the lawn, pruning trees and shrubs, and keeping weeds at bay are all essential tasks that need to be done to keep your property looking its best. If you want to add something extra, consider planting flowers or shrubs near entrances or walkways, designing pathways with gravel or mulch, adding outdoor furniture or decorations, and even installing outdoor lighting for nighttime use. By taking care of these things regularly, you’ll be able to ensure that your property looks great both inside and out. 

6. Security

Last but not least, security should always be a priority when it comes to property maintenance for business owners. Keeping your building and its contents safe from theft or vandalism is essential, so make sure you have adequate security measures in place. This can include installing an alarm system or surveillance cameras, using locks and deadbolts on all exterior doors, keeping valuable items in secure locations, and making sure the premises are adequately lit at night. You may also want to consider implementing employee safety protocols such as regular security training or access control systems that monitor who enters and exits the building at what times. 

As we saw, property maintenance for business owners is a critical and ongoing task that must be taken seriously. By performing regular checks, repairs, and upkeep, you can ensure your building is safe and secure while also looking its best. This will not only help create an enjoyable environment for customers and employees alike but could also increase the value of your property in the long run. So don’t wait—start taking care of your business today!