• Make a check payable to your future.  Instead of a writing a rent check to a landlord each month, you can instead invest your money in a strong, long-term home investment. Some individuals look to owning a home simply because they want their money to start working for them, instead of essentially throwing it away in rent.

• Evaluate the tax advantages.  Think in terms of tax deductions when considering the financial aspects of purchasing a home. Most homeowners itemize their home deductions on their tax returns and deduct such things as home mortgage insurance, property real estate taxes, state income taxes, personal property taxes and even moving expenses.

• Consider all the financial aspects.  Don’t just consider the cost of the home when considering your monthly budget and whether you will come out ahead by buying instead of renting. In other words, compare not only the principal and interest on the loan, but also such things as homeowner’s insurance, taxes, and in some cases, private mortgage insurance.

• Calculate all buying costs.  When considering your costs, don’t forget to also factor in closing costs, related fees like the title insurance fee, the survey, the loan origination fee, attorney fees, and even points on the loan.

• Make room for repair and maintenance.  Your monthly household budget, as a homeowner, will also include maintenance and repair on the home.  It may also include costs associated with updating or remodeling the home to best suit your needs and wants.

• Enjoy long-term equity.  Don’t forget the beauty of long-term equity when determining if owning a home is right for you.  Although the economy over the last few years has left many people in precarious situations regarding their homes, the truth is that owning a home is still one of the best financial decisions you can make. In addition, lenders have dramatically changed their lending requirements from the real estate boom and bust, which means your loan terms for a new home should be decidedly more conservative.

• Flooring- Floors are in every room of a home which gives them an impact on the impression of your home. Carpeting should be professionally cleaned to perfection and if it still does not look perfect, try re-carpeting all together. Hardwood floors are easier to keep clean, however, can have scratches and show wear. If this sounds like your hardwood floors, have it refinished.


• Walls- Walls can make or break the buying of a home. You want to have neutral colors that can go with a variety of different furniture settings. Each buyer has a different style and if you have a versatile color, it will make it easier on them to picture their furniture in your home. Like everything else, make sure walls are clean. If there are holes, or marks cover them up with paint or putty.


• Appliances and Countertops- The kitchen is one of the main rooms considered when a buyer looks at a prospective future home. The kitchen is where the family eats, cooks, and spends time together. Outdated appliances will quickly detour buyers. Do not feel like you have to have commercial grade appliances if you are going to upgrade. A mid grade appliance will show the buyer that they are new, updated, and in great condition. Countertops are also a very important part of not only the kitchen, but also the house. Granite countertops are in high demand in the buyers market and some will not settle for anything less. If Granite countertops are out of your price range, consider a high quality laminate.


• Outdoor Living Spaces- The exterior area of the home is becoming almost as important as the interior. More and more families are finding ways to enjoy their backyards with "Staycations" to save money. Especially with the gorgeous weather lately, backyards are becoming an important part of the home. Make sure that your outdoor living space, is groomed, clean, and looks inviting. Buyers like to picture having a fun evening in the backyard. If you have overgrown bushes, unkempt decks/patios, and no landscaping, it makes the image difficult to enjoy. Try power washing your deck/patio, pulling weeds, keeping the lawn mowed, and even planting flowers.
  

With these five areas touched up, you are sure to have buyers flocking to your house to see what you have to offer!

If you are interested in selling your Atlanta home with Tina Fountain Realtors or interested in Atlanta real estate, please visit our website at www.tinafountain.com/