The real estate market in Central Ohio is still a highly active seller’s market with very little inventory, making it extremely challenging to find that perfect home before it goes in contract. And now that we have spent several weeks at home due to the Coronavirus, it seems like it is even busier as people have realized the frustration and stress their home causes them. They are ready to make a move or make changes to their home, so it becomes a better fit for their family and lifestyle. Here are a few ideas to help you think through some options to create your dream home when you are shopping for a new home yet can’t find the ONE.
Talk to a realtor about what your home is worth and what it would likely cost you to purchase the home you are looking for. Meet with an architect to walk through your home with you to talk about what you like and what doesn’t work. Meet with a contractor to talk with them about your ideas and get ballpark pricing. Maybe changing what you don’t like about your home is an easier fix than you had thought. They will also give you ideas for your home that you have never considered. I had completed a kitchen renovation for a client a few years ago and recommended that they move a couple doors to improve how the space flows. I recently spoke to them about how the space is working and they told me, “we had never thought about moving the doors and were initially hesitant to spend the additional money, though it completely changed how the kitchen functions and they didn’t realize the space would feel so much larger.”
I have also had clients hire me to walk through homes with them along with their realtor. Homes that don’t function really well or need some TLC tend to spend a little more time on the market, so we can walk through them with you to talk about what renovations could be completed at the home to make it your dream home. Sometimes it’s modifying compartmentalized spaces so they can function appropriately for a 21-century family, and sometimes it is just a few minor adjustments that need to be made to improve the home.
Another option is to stage your home as if you are going to sell it. I do not mean de-personalize the spaces because that is what makes your home yours. Rather, my recommendation is to, take the time to purge and get rid of clutter. Eliminating unnecessary stuff will reduce your stress, along with making the spaces feel larger. Complete your honey-do-list, along with repairing holes, scratches, chips, etc. Updating paint colors will freshen up your home, and lighter colors will also make spaces feel larger. Rearranging your furniture can also make a room feel larger and will refresh the space. These things will make you love your home more than you already do.
I hope these tips bring more calm and relaxation to your home, allowing for more joy and happiness in your life.
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