Curb Appeal: Landscaping Tips for Home Selling Success

Did you know that a well landscaped yard not only gives your home beautiful curb appeal but can also increase your home’s value by 10 percent? According to a 2013 National Association of Realtors survey, a whopping 71% of home buyers factor in curb appeal when conducting their home search. Put your home's best foot forward with these five inexpensive landscaping tips. 

1.  Plants - natures way of dressing up the scenery. 

Not only do plants add instant color they can also add a backdrop that compliments the style of your house. Most seasonal and annual selections are relatively inexpensive and good deals can be found at your neighborhood nursery, big box retail or home improvement store.  Local nurseries are good sources for finding information and selection of indigenous plants which in turn create an inviting habitat for local birds and wildlife. 

2.  Decks and Patios - a great place to relax.

People are always on the lookout for places to hang out and socialize. If your backyard does not have a patio or deck, this might a good area to spend a little money. A backyard with something is better than a backyard with nothing at all when it comes to increasing value to the property. If you have patio furniture, it should be in good condition. Power-wash it to spruce it up (if needed), apply a coat of paint and get new cushions. These are just a few inexpensive ways to give a tired patio set a new lease on life.

3.  Create interesting focal points with container gardens.

These mini eco-gardens or a single large tropical can add interest and an appealing nature to a deck or patio area you want to highlight. Potential buyers will be able to picture themselves relaxing in the space with family and friends.

4. Add a water feature.

Fountains, birdbaths and water features add to the aesthetic of a lush backyard by incorporating a flowing focal point. Water can also create a melodious spa-like cooling effect especially if the house is located in a state that has warm summers, like Arizona.  

5. Keep the yard tidy.

This is the time to make sure all trees and shrubs are pruned and flower beds are weeded.  A new application of mulch can do wonders in tiding up an unruly flower bed. Mulch can be purchased inexpensively and will give your beds a uniform finished look. Not only will this show favorably for your house but also has a positive effect on the neighborhood.

With these five tips, your house will be well on its way to attracting a new owner. Your real estate agent is a great source of information in regards to local landscaping companies and landscaping ideas that have worked in selling other homes on the market. 

I am Jason Maneely and I am here to help you with all of your real estate needs. "As a 3rd generation Prescottonian, I have a wealth of knowledge about the area, schools, culture and the many activities Prescott has to offer."  Call me today at (928) 925-6050 and let's find the home of your dreams!

Don't forget to "LIKE" us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/BuyPrescott  for insightful articles, tips, local calendar events, new listings and a little humor. Check out my YouTube channel: MrPrescottRealEstate, to see current videos of listing in the Prescott area. 

Tips for Spring Time Home Buyers

Flowers and trees in backyards across the country are starting to wake from their winter slumber and bloom. Spring is finally here and is known to be the busiest time of year for real estate agents and  potential buyers looking for their forever home.

This Spring is proving to be a challenge for the housing market. Inventory in the Prescott area is slightly higher but still seeing slow growth and demand for available homes is still high. With competition on the rise and some properties garnering multiple offers, it is best for the potential buyer to be prepared.  Here are 4 easy-to-follow tips to insure Spring time home buying success.

1. Hire a real estate professional.
A potential home buyer wants to choose the best real estate agent for them. The agent you pick should have experience in many different types of transactions, has your best interest at heart, understands your aesthetic, is knowledgeable about the area and what it has to offer, and understands market trends.

2. Get pre-approved for a home mortgage before you start your search. 
Too many times potential home buyers fall in love with a home before they know what their budget can afford. Getting a mortgage these days is not as easy as it used to be. You may not be able to qualify for the amount you thought you would.  When you are pre-approved for a mortgage, this adds credibility to your offer once you find the perfect house.

3. Figure out your wish list before you start the journey. 
Having a list of preferred amenities you would like in your new abode  (like stainless steel appliances or granite counter tops) can help your Realtor narrow down the playing field so that you don't get overwhelmed with too many choices. This is also a good time to think about the type of neighborhood you would like to be a part of. Are you single and want to be near other singles and nightlife? Are you and your spouse newly retired and looking for a development that offers different recreational activities like golf or a community swimming pool? Knowing these things will make your home search easier.

4. Be prepared for possible competition. 
This is currently a sellers market as there is more demand than supply. There is a pretty good chance that  another family could fall in love with the same house your family just fell in love with. Put your best offer forward. The days of substantially underbidding are a thing of the past. Putting a creative spin on your offer like extending extra days to move out can make your offer stand out among the competition. Your Realtor is the perfect person to help you think of inventive ways to do this. Use his expertise and land the home of your dreams.

Spring is the perfect time to find your new home or investment property. Please contact Jason Maneely at (928) 925-6050 for all your real estate needs. "I am a 3rd generation Prescottonian and am proud to call Prescott home. I have a wealth of knowledge about the area, schools, subdivisions, culture and the many activities Prescott has to offer".

Don't forget to "LIKE" us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/BuyPrescott for insightful articles, tips, local events and a little humor. We can also be found on YouTube at MrPrescottRealEstate. 

Prescott, Here We Grow Again

Culver's (photo courtesy of Bayland Builders)

Prescott, once a two horse town with a rich western history is well on it's way to being the main hub of Northern Arizona. Known for its four seasons, mild climate, abundant outdoor activities, and small town feel has drawn commercial growth and people wanting to call the Prescott area home.

Prescott Valley, just to the East of Prescott is having a resurgence in residential and commercial growth. New commerce has moved into the area, which in turn is creating more jobs and the increased need for housing. Some of our newest businesses to the area are Dick's Sporting Goods, Walmart and Culver's (just in case you get a hankering for a custard after all that shopping). More on the way include; Sprouts Farmers Market, a rumored Marshall's Clothing Store, Einstein's Bagels, ULTA Cosmetics and the possibility of a Dunkin' Donuts.

Currently Listed for Sale: 7375 Night Watch Way, Prescott Valley, AZ
(photo courtesy  of Rick Brazil Photography)

We are also seeing growth in the housing market. Prescott Valley subdivisions; Granville, Pronghorn Ranch, Quailwood, Stoneridge, and Viewpoint are all seeing substantial expansion. Most homes are barely completed before they are sold.

Spring is the perfect time to find your new home or investment property. Please contact Jason Maneely at (928) 925-6050 for all of your real estate needs. "As a 3rd generation Prescottonian, I have a wealth of knowledge about the area, schools, culture and the many activities Prescott has to offer."

Don't forget to "LIKE" us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/BuyPrescott for insightful articles, tips, local calendar events, new listings and a little humor. You can also see a video tour of my latest listing, 7375 Night Watch Way, Prescott Valley (pictured above) on my YouTube channel: MrPrescottRealEstate. It just might be the home of your dreams.