Increase the Value of Your Pleasanton Home with These 3 Tips

Increase the Value of Your Pleasanton Home with These 3 Tips

With the fact that Pleasanton was reported to be the 4th among “America’s 50 Best Cities to Live In” by USA Today in 2014, it is not surprising if you, together with many other potential home sellers, get curious and ask the question, “What’s my home worth in Pleasanton CA?” This is part of the San Francisco Bay Area and is considered to be one of the most affluent cities close to San Francisco with many parks, trails, open spaces, shops, and restaurants nearby, not to mention great schools!

In general, Pleasanton homes for sale have a high market value. Additional factors that contribute to your home’s value are the neighborhood, establishments close by, and geography to name a few. There are many other ways that you can increase the value of your home especially when you have plans of putting it on the market. Add value to your home with the tips listed below.

Intensive Cleaning

In many households, cleaning is done frequently, but not thoroughly. The visible surfaces are usually cleaned during routine cleanings. It is important to do intensive cleaning once in a while. As you do this, you are not just able to clean every space, but this also gives you the chance to inspect your home. When intensive cleaning is done, even the less visible area in the house can be checked for mold that can eventually destroy the walls. This can also extinguish bugs and insects which may weaken the structure of the house.

Repainting

Repainting a home always gives it a clean look. New paint erases dirt and stains that consequently adds more value to the house. It is best to choose neutral colors when repainting your home since this gives buyers a blank canvass to work on as they visualize living in your home. Brighter colors may look cute to some people, but if you are planning to sell, there will be many potential buyers with different tastes and personalities. Additionally, neutral colors also add style and elegance to the house. It may give a modern or vintage look, depending on your choice of decor and accent.

Decorating

“What’s my home value in Pleasanton CA?” is a good question especially if you have intentions to sell your home in the future. One of the best ways to increase its value is to decorate and design it. The first thing potential buyers could see are photographs of your home. This is one of the ways to let your buyer pick up the phone as they see the value of your home. As potential buyers view your and space and see that its design and decoration look dull or cluttered, then they might think that your home is not well maintained or cared for. You can organize your home and still give it a classy feel. One of the best ways to handle this matter is to hire a a stager.

Don’t hesitate to visit this website www.HomeValuesPleasanton.com if you need assistance in selling your Pleasanton Ca home or need help knowing where to start.

If you are looking for a Pleasanton luxury REALTOR® who can help you sell or buy your dream luxury home, call me, Rhonda Fee, at 925-200-0827. You can also text 925-660-7110 with any of these codes: seller411, buyer411 or homesearch. With my extensive experience and knowledge of the Pleasanton luxury real estate market, combined with a track record of satisfied clients, your next transaction will be the best move you’ve ever made!

Top 7 Things That Can Decrease the Value of Your Pleasanton Home

Top 7 Things That Can Decrease the Value of Your Pleasanton Home

If you want to sell your home fast to buyers looking for Pleasanton CA homes, you have to be clear about one question --- “what's my home worth in Pleasanton CA?” 

A lot of factors such as the location, square footage, and number of rooms, can affect your property’s value. There are also certain things, both controllable and uncontrollable, that could significantly reduce your home’s worth. Steer clear of these pitfalls when selling your home.

Landscaping without considering the future

Landscaping your yard can help make your property look more attractive. However, you have to think about the future before you make any change. For instance, if you plant a tree too close to the house or driveway, it can result to major problems later. Roots can cause breaks in the pavement, which can be quite costly to repair. Before you plant anything in your yard, consider how it will look years later.

Meddling with the fireplace

Think carefully before you start fussing with the fireplace, especially if you are planning on painting over exposed brick. If the look is not trendy when the time comes for you to sell, it could decrease the value of your home. Some people tend to like the visual aesthetic of exposed brick. 

Holding onto old kitchen appliances

Buyers looking for homes for sale in Pleasanton do not want to move in and have to buy all new appliances. Make sure to pay attention to the brand and quality of your major kitchen appliances. 

If something is classic and well-maintained, you may still keep it. However, if a piece has had a long life, you might consider replacing it rather than risk reducing your home’s value.

Being over trendy

Mixing in the latest trends can make your home look more appealing. However, not all buyers are attracted to the latest trends. In fact, most of them prefer kitchens or bathrooms in classic, neutral colors. If you want to add color and personality to your home, you may use bright accessories to bring in fun details. They are much easier to change later.

Neglecting your wood floors

Most buyers today prefer wood floors. They are more likely to pass up homes with wall-to-wall carpet. Make sure you know how to properly maintain your wood floors. Do not clean them with water and vinegar as these tend to dull them over time. You can also have your floors buffed every year instead of having them refinished. 

Poor school district

School quality continues to be one of the top priorities for homebuyers. People looking for Pleasanton CA homes for sale can feel confident about all the schools in the district. However if you are selling in another location, be thoughtful of the school scores nearest to your home. It could affect the value of your home.

Proximity to airport, interstate, or train

There is no doubt that buyers like a convenient location. They usually dismiss the homes that compromise their solitude and the air quality. Homes that are too close to freeways, airports, and commuter trains suffer from wary buyers who do not want anything to do with the exhaust fumes and the constant hum of traffic.

Check out www.HomeValuesPleasanton.com today to see the latest luxury homes and estates for sale in Pleasanton CA. 

If you are looking for a Pleasanton luxury REALTOR® who can help you sell or buy your dream luxury home, call me, Rhonda Fee, at 925-200-0827. You can also text 925-660-7110 with any of these codes: seller411, buyer411 or homesearch. With my extensive experience and knowledge of the Pleasanton luxury real estate market, combined with a track record of satisfied clients, your next transaction will be the best move you’ve ever made!

5 Reasons Why You Should Never Overprice Your Pleasanton Home

5 Reasons Why You Should Never Overprice Your Pleasanton Home

When selling your home to buyers looking for Pleasanton homes for sale, you have to be careful not to overprice. While it is natural for a seller to maximize the sale of a home, overpricing your property can backfire and leave you with nothing to show but a stale listing.

Read on for some reasons why you should be careful not to overprice your home when selling.

You will scare off buyers

Pleasanton has become a popular destination for buyers looking for luxury homes and starter homes. If you overprice your home, you will scare off the best buyers. They will be dashing to the next house even before you get the chance to show them your home. Buyers often work with real estate agents who can easily tell when a home is overpriced. If they think that yours is, they will advise their client to consider other more reasonable priced homes. Even if the buyers are not using a real estate agent, they still usually avoid homes that seem far pricier than others in the neighbourhood. 

You will attract lousy agents

Real estate agents are in the business of selling homes, and they prefer homeowners who have realistic expectations. A good agent will honestly answer your question, “What's my home value in Pleasanton CA?” On the other hand, there are some agents who take advantage of your unfamiliarity with real estate matters and encourage you to overprice your home or worse yet, don’t have the nerve to explain the importance of proper pricing in fear they will lose a chance to take a listing. Some agents will tell you what you want to hear just to get their for sale sign in your yard. 

These kinds of agents are just using your home as an advertising vehicle to acquire other clients. The good news is that there are lots of great and experienced real estate agents who do not prey on unsuspecting clients. Instead, they have your best interest in mind. As a seller, your job is to find an agent that knows the market and knows how to sell homes for the best price in the shortest amount of time and is not afraid to advise you as to proper pricing.

You will have missed showings

Buyers and real estate agents looking for a home, search within a price range when using the Multiple Listing Service (MLS). If you price your home outside of the comparable range or above the current market value, your property will not come up in their search. You will end up losing showings from prospective buyers who can afford your home.

You actually help sell the competition

Buyers usually compare properties when considering a home purchase. When a buyer compares your overpriced home versus one that is priced at a fair market value, the buyer will likely be convinced to place an offer on the well priced property instead of yours. With an overpriced home, you are helping the competition get sold.

You will face a tough closing

It is quite difficult to close an accepted offer on an overpriced home. This is mainly because of the fact that buyers will continue to look at the competition. Once they quickly realize they have overpaid, it will result to buyer’s remorse and a collapsed sale prior to contingency removals.

Check out www.HomeValuesPleasanton.com today to see the latest luxury homes and estates for sale in Pleasanton CA. 

If you are looking for a Pleasanton luxury REALTOR® who can help you sell or buy your dream luxury home, call me, Rhonda Fee, at 925-200-0827. You can also text 925-660-7110 with any of these codes: seller411, buyer411 or homesearch. With my extensive experience and knowledge of the Pleasanton luxury real estate market, combined with a track record of satisfied clients, your next transaction will be the best move you’ve ever made!

How to Give Your Home a Modern Appeal That Buyers Will Surely Love

How to Give Your Home a Modern Appeal That Buyers Will Surely Love

After saying to yourself, “Good thing there is free market evaluation for my home in Pleasanton CA,” put yourself in the shoes of the buyers and consider the value of your home. Additionally, remember that after looking at several homes for sale in Pleasanton, buyers will definitely get tired of seeing outdated homes. Make yours stand out by giving it a modern touch. Updating your home before putting it on the market will also boost its appeal and increase the chances of getting sold sooner than you expected.

Here are some tips on how to modernize your home before showing it to buyers:

1. Update your light fixtures

As you ask yourself, “What's my home value in Pleasanton CA?,” one simple way to add value and modernize your home is by updating your ceiling, sconces, and bathroom light fixtures. Aside from giving your home a modern appeal, they can also bring better and more efficient light to the space. You may also add skylights and solar tubes in dark areas that need more lighting. Remember that you can reduce the use of or totally remove lighting fixtures with the introduction of more natural light into a space.

2. Paint and brighten it up

One of the most basic ways to give your home a modern look is by painting it. Replace dingy white paint or faded wallpaper on interior walls. Colors such as warm golden beige, robin’s egg blue, or muted sage tones create a clean, updated look. Using lemon yellow or soft coral can add flair and give life to any space. Using bright yet soft mint green can create a youthful look as well. Before doing this however, it is best to consult with your best real estate agent’s stager. Don’t waste money painting walls that the stager may dislike.

3. Open up your kitchen

Making your kitchen accessible to the living and dining rooms can also help create a modern appeal. You can achieve this in several ways. You can widen the doorway or create a pass through. You may also knock down the upper half of a wall, or totally remove an entire wall. Whichever option you go for, it is better to hire a contractor to do the job. If there is enough space, you can add an island or a peninsula.

4. Update the bathroom

The bathroom is another area that buyers will surely check. A few small touches in this space can go a long way. Replace old curtains, shades, or blinds with something more modern like snapview shutters. Get rid of old towel racks with more modern looking metal ones. Change the shower curtains especially if they are already showing signs of wear or age. You can also install a new mirror. These are basic easy, quick fixes....oh and don’t forget to replace the old toilet seat!!

5. Go for hardwood floor

Having carpet in the bedrooms is practical and comfortable. However, carpeting the entire home has long been out of style. Instead of carpets, go for hardwood floor. It exudes a natural vibe and a classic feel. You can also explore other flooring options such as tiles, bricks, or stone. Your real estate agent will have someone you can get quotes for to get great pricing!

6. Add new accents

Adding new accents can also help attract more buyers who are looking for homes with modern appeal. New throw pillows, new wall art, and flower vases can do the trick, but remember not to overdo it. Select versatile pieces that will complement your existing style.

As you remember, “There is free market evaluation for my home in Pleasanton CA,” keep in mind that your trusted real estate professional will greatly help you. Following these tips will freshen up, modernize, and also add value to your home. 

Check out www.HomeValuesPleasanton.com today to check your home’s value and for more home selling tips for your home in Pleasanton CA. 

If you are looking for a Pleasanton luxury REALTOR® who can help you sell or buy your dream luxury home, call me, Rhonda Fee, at 925-200-0827. You can also text 925-660-7110 with any of these codes: seller411, buyer411 or homesearch. With my extensive experience and knowledge of the Pleasanton luxury real estate market, combined with a track record of satisfied clients, your next transaction will be the best move you’ve ever made!

The Truth behind the Top 5 Home Improvement Myths

The Truth behind the Top 5 Home Improvement Myths

Doing some home improvement projects before showing your home to buyers looking for Del Prado Pleasanton homes for sale is a good idea. It can add value to your property and help increase buyer traffic. However, you need to be careful with your choices when it comes to investing time and effort in improving your home.

To help you make the right decision, take a look at the top 5 home improvement myths and the truth behind them.

Myth 1: Do-it-yourself is always the best option.

As a seller, you want to make a great first impression on buyers looking for homes for sale in Del Prado Pleasanton. In order to achieve this, you need the help of experts and professionals. While you may have knack for certain things, it is still better to hire a contractor to do the job. Doing it yourself can sometimes save money, but you also need to be aware of your limits. Think it through before you commit to doing all the nitty-gritty work yourself. Ask yourself if you have the skill, time, or license required to perform the work. Do not hesitate to ask for help. You can tackle certain low-risk projects, but know which remodeling requires the expertise of a professional.

Myth 2: Swimming pools add value.

Many people believe that adding a swimming pool or a hot tub will surely sell the home. While adding a pool may sound appealing, it is not always a sure sell. You have to consider your home’s location. If you live in a pool-friendly region and every day is summer in your climate, then adding a pool is a great idea. If you live in a cooler climate, you might have to reconsider. You also have to keep in mind that adding a pool is a scary proposition because it is a liability and can require a lot of work to maintain in the off-season. Before building a pool, weigh the pros and cons. Otherwise, you might end up with a money pit.

Myth 3: Putting wallpaper is a piece of cake.

Placing wallpaper on wall looks easy and simple. However, this is one of those projects that can quickly become a nightmare if not done correctly. Before starting with the project, carefully examine the room. If there are obstacles such as a vanity or a toilet, you will have to cut the wallpaper and match it up to go around. It is not always an easy job to tackle.

Myth 4: Adding square footage always adds value.

Some sellers believe that adding square footage will increase the value of their home. You have to carefully think about this before deciding to expand. Square footage in attics and basements that are finished, and by county standards considered livable, may not be appealing to a buyer if the space is substandard compared to the rest of the house.

Myth 5: Adding a bedroom is better than adding a bathroom.

Before you add either a bathroom or a bedroom you need to assess your home and the potential need of future buyers. If you only have one or two bedrooms to start with, adding a bedroom is probably a better choice. After all, buyers are more attracted to a three bedroom home. On the other hand, if you already have enough number of bedrooms and only one bath, you better invest on a second bath.

Check out www.HomeValuesPleasanton.com today for more home selling ideas and for a free market evaluation of your home in Del Prado. 

If you are looking for a Pleasanton luxury REALTOR® who can help you sell or buy your dream luxury home, call me, Rhonda Fee, at 925-200-0827. You can also text 925-660-7110 with any of these codes: seller411, buyer411 or homesearch. With my extensive experience and knowledge of the Pleasanton luxury real estate market, combined with a track record of satisfied clients, your next transaction will be the best move you’ve ever made!