When your Realtor plans to do an open house, there are a few things that you can do to help make the day a success. And, it doesn’t have to cost half your equity in unnecessary upgrades and renovations. 

Here are a few often-overlooked ideas that range from free to a few hundred dollars that can help you net more from your investment.

Look at the outside 

Curb appeal. It’s a term often tossed around but not necessarily understood by home sellers. Your curb appeal is simply how inviting your home looks from the outside. Curb appeal includes everything from the color uniformity of your grass to neatly trimmed shrubs and clean shutters. Make your home a showplace by mowing a day or two before your open house, filling holes or fixing damage caused by dogs or children, and pulling weeds. Curb appeal isn’t just about your lawn. You can also add a new mailbox and outdoor lighting and give your front door a new coat of paint. 

Keep it clean

You will never clean your house well enough to make it look like no one’s been there. But when you’re ready to host an open house, that’s exactly the kind of clean you need. Your eyes (and nose) are acclimated to your environment—your buyers’ senses are not. Before your open house, hire a housecleaning service to get the nooks and crannies you’ll undoubtedly overlook.  

Light is right

Ideally, your home will be well lit with natural light, which doesn’t alter colors and produces a sense of openness. But, if you don’t have large windows or if your open house will take place in late afternoon when the sun has already set, you’ll need to take special care or to get your interior lighting just right. Lighting is a powerful interior design element, and your home’s ambient light should illuminate as large a space as possible to enhance visibility and safety. Choose a bulb that puts your home’s colors in their (pardon the pun) best light. You can find multiple options at your local hardware store for about $5 per bulb.

Just go already

Now that you’ve got the lighting, lawn, and look just right, your main priority is to vacate the premises. According to Bank Rate, sellers should never stay on-site during an open house. It will make buyers uncomfortable and may give you an inflated sense of your home’s actual value. Don’t forget to grab the dog on your way out the door, as your pup’s presence is also an undesirable distraction.

While no one thing on this list guarantees your house will be sold by the end of the day, they are all great ways to shift the focus to the positive aspects of your home. Inviting curb appeal and white-glove treatment can go a long way toward bolstering your home-selling efforts.

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LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION!! This immaculate, lowcountry home is in one of the most desirable James Island areas. As soon as you are greeted by the gas lanterns at the entrance of this quaint neighborhood, you will feel like you are in downtown Charleston, SC! Nestled in a quiet cul de sac, you will immediately imagine yourself sitting in a rocking chair, sipping sweet tea on your expansive front porch or enjoying a morning coffee on your screened porch, watching the wildlife enjoying the pond. Inside you will find spacious living & dining areas with gleaming hardwood floors throughout, gas fireplace for those chilly southern winter nights & beautiful crown molding. The kitchen has a large island, beautiful granite counters & glass backsplash, upgraded cabinets - perfect for those who love to cook and entertain. Privately situated on the 1st floor, the large master ensuite has BRAND NEW HARDWOOD FLOORS. Upstairs, you will find two guest bedrooms and an additional bathroom. The detached garage, complete with a mini split unit to keep the space comfortable all year round, is insulated with spray foam and insulation on the garage door and perfect for a gym, man cave or home office! And, enjoy your own hidden retreat behind the garage, complete with a Belgard patio. You definitely don't want to miss this gem of a home which is minutes to downtown Charleston and Folly Beach!

For more information, go to:  http://www.sccoastalislandhomes.com/search/results/?mls_number=19023054

Contact us to schedule your exclusive showing at 1125 Sabrina Circle, Charleston, SC  29412

We all know land is becoming scarce in Summerville, SC as developers snatch up large parcels of land and build new homes on postage stamp sized lots.  So, when the opportunity for a lot in Historic Summerville comes up, anyone looking to build their dream home, needs to jump.

Well, here is your chance to build your dream home in the heart of Summerville! This partially cleared .29 acre lot, nestled between Main Street and West Carolina, is an easy walk to Azalea Park, the Farmers Market, some of Summerville's best restaurants, as well as the newly renovated Town Square!  A lot of this size, in Summerville, especially in the heart of downtown, is very hard to come by - Don't miss out!! 

Go to http://www.sccoastalislandhomes.com/search/results/?mls_number=19022051 or contact me for more information.

No need to wait for new construction when you can have this JUST LISTED home in the Reminisce neighborhood of Summerville, SC!  You will be welcomed by a gorgeous stone front and inviting front porch upon arriving to this 3057 sq ft home.  Upon entering, you will be immediately drawn to the open layout and gleaming high quality laminate flooring. Entertaining will be a breeze with this floor plan - open living/dining area, spacious family room, leading to a cook's dream kitchen!

Features include**Large kitchen with stainless steel appliances, plentiful 42'' cabinets with crown molding and roll out trays, granite counters and large island with ample seating**Powder room off the office/den and has a large storage closet that could be easily converted into a shower. You will find four nicely sized bedrooms plus HUGE Loft upstairs. You will love your new Master en suite with tray ceiling, dual sinks, separate shower/soaking tub and large walk-in closet! And, nicely sized laundry room is also located upstairs. We can't forget the screened in porch overlooking the fenced yard, complete with large playset - you will enjoy many gatherings for years to come! Reminisce is a welcoming neighborhood with many events throughout the year - you will love living here!

For details, go to: http://www.sccoastalislandhomes.com/search/results/?mls_number=19018847

Looking to be in the Dorchester School #2 District?  Look no further! This move-in ready home in the sought-after Whitehall subdivision will end your search! Located on a large, fenced corner lot, this well-maintained home has a BRAND NEW ROOF, is freshly painted and has beautiful high quality laminate flooring throughout!

As you enter this North Charleston, SC home, you will first notice the light and airy feeling from the vaulted ceilings!  Features include:  First floor Master En Suite with vaulted ceilings, large walk-in closet, separate tub and shower**Enjoy chilly winter nights snuggled in front of the wood burning fireplace in the light and bright family room, also with vaulted ceilings**Many meals will be enjoyed in this spacious eat-in kitchen with stainless steel appliances**Formal dining room with French doors that could also be an office or playroom**Upstairs you will find two spacious guest bedrooms and full bath**Relax in your screened in porch, enjoying sweet tea on hot summer nights or entertaining guests...Enjoy wonderful amenities including a pool, playground, fishing ponds and tennis courts.

Located near Boeing, Bosch, Mercedes, Joint Base Charleston and Charleston International Airport, you will also find plentiful shopping and restaurants. Don't miss this gem!

For details, go to: http://www.sccoastalislandhomes.com/search/results/?mls_number=19018846

Crowfield Plantation, in Goose Creek, South Carolina, is a hot neighborhood with homes going under contract within just a few days!  This adorable gem just came on the market today and we do not expect it to last long! Well maintained, this home is just perfect for a starter home or for someone looking to downsize.  With one-level living, one need not bother with stairs and there is plenty of room for everyone!  A wood-burning fireplace in the Great Room exudes charm and the high ceilings offer ambiance.  Enjoy a well equipped kitchen with separate dining area and off of the Great Room, there is approx. 200 square foot sunroom, not currently accounted for in the square footage as an extra space.  There is a one car garage and room for an additional car on the parking pad.  Your backyard offers you a secluded retreat with plenty of space for those summer BBQ's.  And, we cannot forget the BRAND NEW ROOF!!  Crowfield offers many wonderful amenities including pools, playground, tennis court, walking trails and a golf course.  This home is conveniently located to the Naval Weapons Station, Volvo, Boeing and minutes from I-26.  Schedule your showing today!

For more information, go to: http://www.sccoastalislandhomes.com/search/results/?mls_number=19016705

Who doesn't love FREE donuts and adorable pups??!!  Come on out to our 1st Annual Dogs Donuts and Donations Fundraising event for Pet Helpers on James Island, next Saturday, June 15th from 8:30 to 11:30am.  Golds Gym is co-sponsoring this with us and we have lots of exciting things planned for all of you as well as hope to raise some money for Pet Helpers and get some dogs their new fur-ever home!  

Interested in being a sponsor or donate a raffle prize?  We would love to have you, just reach out to me at desiree@sccoastalislandhomes.com or call 843-327-9010.  

If you are not able to attend and would like to still donate, please go to:  https://pethelpers.org/donate/

See you on the 15th!

Searching for a house to accommodate a wheelchair isn’t as easy as it sounds. While today’s builders are making an effort to design homes that are more attractive to those of us with mobility issues, not all properties have been updated to accommodate disabled persons. The struggle is made even harder by agents who don’t understand how one home is better than another. If you are just starting your home hunt, in Charleston sit your real estate agent down before the process and let them know what you need.

1. You need a home that requires minimal modifications.

Just like anyone else, when you buy a new home, you want to be able to use it as soon as you move in. Give your agent a list of immediate requirements that are non-negotiable. If you need a zero-step entry, for example, tell them. Your agent may get so caught up in the search that they tell themselves it won’t be that hard to change a specified issue, and maybe you’d really like the house enough to overlook its flaws.

Another issue to be very clear about with your buyer’s agent is budget. Give them a range, and request not to see homes above the highest dollar amount. This is crucial if you think you’ll still need to pay for home modifications (and you most likely will). HomeAdvisor offers information on alternative funding options for people with disabilities. The American Red Cross, the Veterans Administration, and the Gary Sinise RISE program are just a few examples that offer grants available for people with disabilities.

2. You’ll need to hire pros before moving in.

You should ask your Realtor for recommendations of various professional services that will meet your needs before moving in. For example, you’ll need a reputable moving company that won’t

damage any of your items in the packing and shipping processes. Also, you may want to consider hiring a cleaning crew so your new home can be move-in ready. Ask about a contractor as well so that they can point out any necessary modifications you may have overlooked. You’ll also want to ask about locksmiths in your area. After the closing date, you’ll want to make your home secure by having the locks rekeyed or new ones installed. Expect to pay between $96 and $210 for locksmith services.

3. Stairs are not necessarily out of the question.

If you have the extra money for a stair lift (the average cost for one is $3,000 - $4,000), let your Realtor know that information as well. While most wheelchair users would prefer a single story home, some markets simply don’t have an inventory of ranch-style dwellings.

4. Inches matter in the kitchen.

The kitchen is one room where accessibility really can’t be negotiated. If you are the primary cook in your family, for example, tell your agent. Explain to them that a standard countertop height — usually 36 inches — is too high. Ask them to prioritize kitchen accessibility.

EasterSealsTech.com notes there are many things to consider in the kitchen. While appliances are a fairly easy fix, lowering the cabinets and ensuring there is space to roll in under the sink are much more cost-prohibitive. If necessary, have your agent take you into a home with a non- modified kitchen so they can get a better idea of the issues you face.

5. No matter how thin you are, you’ll need wide doorways.

Doorways are rarely installed with a wheelchair user in mind. As mobility products provider Karman explains, 32 inches is the minimum width necessary to be a comfortable passage. Most doors are 27 inches wide. Keep in mind, however, that this is a fairly easy project, one that you can have a friend or family member do without adding significantly to the cost of the home.

6. A small bathroom is a dealbreaker.

A first-floor bathroom is essential and just as important as location is size. The floorspace needed to safely accommodate a wheelchair is 48 inches by 30 inches. While this may not sound like a lot, if you’re looking at a smaller home, every effort will be made to fit as many features into the space as possible. This often means sacrificing floorspace.

Unless your agent is also in a wheelchair, he or she may not understand the issues you face. Clear up any questions ahead of time and you’ll save yourself and your realtor time, money, and hassle. Searching for a house isn’t easy for anyone, but knowing your needs now will make the process much less intimidating.

Image via Pixabay

Welcome to Cane Bay Plantation in Summerville, SC!  This beautiful, well-maintained home on a corner lot, features a large open floorplan that welcomes you as you enter the front door! Features of this freshly painted home include**BRAND NEW laminate flooring throughout first floor**Large kitchen with breakfast bar, plentiful cabinet and counter space and pantry**Large family/living room with fireplace offers a relaxing spot for entertaining**First floor Flex Room with closet and half bath that easily be converted into 4th bedroom or play/craft room or office**Upstairs is the real treat with a huge loft perfect for lounging and is surrounded by 2 guest bedrooms, guest bathroom, large laundry room**Escape to your Master ensuite which has a walk-in closet, dual vanities and separate garden tub and shower. The community pool and Pavilion that can be rented year-round is close by. Enjoy easy access to miles of trails throughout the Cane Bay Community.   Schools, shopping, and restaurants are a golf-cart ride away. 

The Old Rice Retreat neighborhood is full of events: Christmas golf-cart parade, Food Truck Wednesdays, outside movies, fireworks show & much more. Within the ever-growing Cane Bay area, you can find sewing clubs, BUNCO groups, impromptu football games, food drives, & the sense that you are now part of a huge family. Priced in the low $200's is a rare find in Cane Bay, this home will not last long, so do not wait to make an appointment for your own personal showing today!

For details, go to:  http://www.sccoastalislandhomes.com/search/results/?mls_number=19013523

Moving out of your lifelong home is emotionally challenging, but it’s also an opportunity to live your life on your terms. A smaller home means less upkeep, and the money you make from selling your current house can help you finance your dreams. However, downsizing is not a decision to be made lightly; in fact, there are many factors to consider, such as where to live and which home modifications you’re willing to pay for.

A New Place to Hang Your Hat

Your first priority is to determine where you want to live and what type of home you want to move into. While you have many options, most active seniors choose to buy a smaller house, purchase a condominium, or move into a retirement community. If you buy a home or condo, it may be necessary to make modifications to accommodate your current and future abilities. Even if you’re in perfect health now, it doesn’t hurt to plan for the future. Keep in mind that modifications can be pricey, so factor those into your budget as you search for your new home.

Angie’s List notes that a bathroom retrofitted with a walk-in shower and wheelchair-friendly doors may set you back $20,000 or more. A full kitchen renovation with a touch faucet and pull-out cabinets to accommodate arthritis will likely run about $25,000. Less expensive upgrades include a wheelchair ramp, added lighting, and safety grab bars in the bathtub. If you really want to future-proof your home, look for a single-story floor plan with a universal design.

Once you know the type of house you need, determine location. You might want to be close to the beach or have access to public transportation or shopping. If you have health concerns, make sure there is a hospital close by and that you research Medicare providers in the area to ensure you won’t have to make a long-distance commute for routine care.

What to Do with All That Stuff

No matter how long you’ve been in your current home, chances are you have a lifetime of stuff to go through before you move. You’ll have less space, so you’ll have to be willing to let go of a significant portion of your property. If you have time, start your decluttering process at least six months before the move. Tackle the non-sentimental stuff first, such as canceled checks and duplicate kitchen items. Do plan to take a few beloved items with you along with functional furniture, family photos, and anything else that lends to your overall sense of happiness.

Once you have decided what’s not moving with you, talk to your children and grandchildren about what they might like to keep. If you have valuable antiques, contact your local auction house or antique store to ask about having your items appraised. Anything not worth consigning can be used for inventory for a garage sale, which can further pad your moving budget while helping you contain the chaos of clutter. DaveRamsey.com offers plenty of great tips on how to have a successful garage sale.

Avoid Moving-Day Mayhem

Moving day anxiety is unavoidable, and it is also possibly the most stressful stretch of the journey. Consider using the services of a senior move manager, who is an individual specializing in helping seniors tackle this major life change. They can help you put an aging-in-place plan into action and ensure that your new home is unpacked and set up to your exact specifications. Many moving companies also offer moving services for seniors.

Downsizing is an emotional time, but it’s not one that has to be physically exhausting. Take your time by starting the decluttering process early, know what you’re looking for, and leave the heavy lifting to someone else.

Image via Pixabay