Realtors’ Priorities When Choosing Their Own Homes (Part 2), It’s a fact: real estate professionals, the very individuals who specialize in showcasing and selling houses, also have their own housing preferences. Ever wondered what’s on their “must-have” list when it comes to their personal abodes? We reached out to real estate agents and brokers from across the nation to discover what they prioritize in terms of a home’s physical structure, its features, landscaping, and the neighborhood it’s nestled in. While these individual preferences may vary, what’s consistent is their unwavering commitment to features that carry substantial resale value. So, whether you’re in the market for a New Home, contemplating listing yours, or simply aiming to boost its overall appeal, read on for insights from real estate experts on what truly transforms a house into a coveted must-have.
Nurturing Homes with Care and Love
Ryan’s perspective on home buying emphasizes the significance of a seller’s care and love for their property.
He considers factors such as whether the home has been cherished, enjoyed, and properly maintained. While some structural repairs may always be necessary, it’s crucial that regular maintenance or replacement of essential components, like the roof or tuck pointing, has been undertaken.
Ryan, who envisions owning a charming 1920s-era house adorned with crown molding and a majestic staircase, highlights an essential aspect: the resale value of a home with up-to-date mechanical systems can significantly exceed that of a home requiring extensive repairs.
This potential difference can amount to an additional $20,000 to $50,000 in value.
For prospective buyers, the lesson is clear: Inquire about a home’s maintenance history and check for relevant documentation such as manuals or warranties.
This information can be instrumental in making an informed decision about your investment.
For sellers, the moral of the story is equally vital: Take good care of your property.
A well-maintained home not only ensures your own comfort but also enhances its market value, making it a more attractive prospect for potential buyers. Ultimately, when love and care are infused into a home, it becomes a valuable asset in more ways than one.
Seamlessly Blending Indoor and Outdoor Living Spaces
Maria Demme, a broker associated with Ideal Properties, a part of the Southern California boutique agency Pantanella & Partners, sought to make the most of Southern California’s splendid weather by seamlessly integrating indoor and outdoor living spaces.
For her, this was a non-negotiable priority when hunting for a house.
However, in the quest for the perfect home, sometimes it’s necessary to think creatively, just as Demme did.
Her house initially lacked a back door, which posed challenges for accessing the backyard. Undeterred, she took an innovative approach and transformed a back window into a functional door.
The presence of an existing header made this project surprisingly straightforward.
Demme’s instincts paid off handsomely when she hosted her housewarming event.
The transition from the house to the yard was so smooth that it enhanced the overall flow of the party, creating a harmonious and delightful atmosphere where indoor and outdoor spaces seamlessly coexisted. This transformation serves as a testament to the ingenuity that can be employed to create the perfect living space, especially in a region blessed with fantastic weather like Southern California.
Strolling Toward Sustainability: The Appeal of a Walkable Neighborhood
In the bustling city of Los Angeles, where car culture prevails, Maria Demme had a different vision in mind when searching for her ideal living environment.
Her top priority was to reside in a neighborhood where she could minimize her reliance on her car. Her dream was simple yet profound: to park her car when returning home from work and then conveniently bike or walk to nearby shops, restaurants, and parks.
This desire for a walkable neighborhood not only aligns with her personal preferences but also reflects a broader trend.
More and more individuals are recognizing the importance of reducing their carbon footprint and embracing sustainable lifestyles. In this context, the appeal of a neighborhood that offers easy access to stores, services, and recreational activities within walking or biking distance becomes increasingly valuable.
Demme’s aspiration epitomizes the evolving mindset of many urban dwellers who seek to contribute to a more sustainable future while enjoying the convenience and vibrant community life that a walkable neighborhood can provide.
Elevating Value Through Distinctive Details
For Jill Meilus, a seasoned real estate broker in the bustling metropolis of New York City, it’s all about the drama in the details.
Even when contemplating downsizing after her daughter’s departure, she remained unwavering in her quest for homes that exude quirky charm and boast unique features.
Meilus vividly recalls the defining moment when she fell in love with her current residence—a captivating built-in bookcase adorned with intricate metalwork.
It was this distinct touch that sealed the deal for her, demonstrating the power of unique details in making a house truly feel like home.
Meilus isn’t the only one who recognizes the allure of distinctive elements.
She recently achieved remarkable success in her real estate career by overseeing the sale of two apartments at astonishingly high prices. What set these transactions apart was the sellers’ dedication to unearthing and restoring original architectural details such as exposed brick and wooden beams in the ceiling.
These carefully preserved features transformed the apartments into unique and highly sought-after spaces, significantly increasing their market value.
Jill Meilus’s story underscores a valuable lesson in the world of real estate: The devil is in the details, and it’s often the quirky, charming, and unique elements that not only capture our hearts but also drive up the desirability and worth of a property.
Finding Tranquility Amidst Urban Life
In the midst of the urban hustle and bustle, it’s no surprise that individuals like Meilus seek solace at the end of a busy day.
Sometimes, the allure of peace and quiet outweighs the appeal of a bustling cityscape. Meilus herself made a conscious choice to forego a scenic view in favor of an apartment tucked away at the back of her building, solely for the sake of tranquility.
In her cozy retreat, she can indulge in the illusion of residing in a cottage nestled in the countryside.
Meilus’s decision is a testament to the powerful desire for respite within city life.
For many, the quest for a more peaceful living environment often involves selecting a neighborhood that exudes a more laid-back ambiance. In these pockets of urban tranquility, residents can find a slice of serenity amidst the vibrancy of the city, creating a harmonious balance between the urban and the pastoral.
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