When buying a home, consider the resale value.

Sure, I might be jumping the gun a little. I know you haven't even purchased the home yet or moved in for that matter, but consider what happens if you want to sell it later. How do you choose a home that has a good resale value?

We all want homes that will grow in value and sell quickly, so why not think ahead before making your next purchase. Very few of us live in the same home forever, so the resale value is definitely something you should be considering with your next purchase.

Location, Location, Location. Location is key. Even though a neighborhood might be highly sought after today, doesn't necessarily mean it will be ten years from now, or vice versa. Are there areas that are increasing in desirability? Is there a major change coming that will impact a community? A new shopping center, marina, industrial area? Maybe that change is a reason to buy there, maybe it is a reason not to. Not all changes or re-zoning is bad, look toward the future and where the urban growth area or the commercial segment is expanding. It might not be the ideal location while you live there, but could be a good idea for an investment or resale down the road.

Features for Buyers. What are buyers looking for and will this home offer that? Today, buyers seem to like large master bedrooms, walk-in closets, attached garages, and updated kitchens. If you purchase a home with the features that buyers want, it will help you sell it later. Homes that allow a lot of natural light to come in, seem to show better. And, depending on your location, a view of the mountains or water will certainly help.

Based on the asking price, you may want to avoid some features such as a home with one bath, electric baseboard heating, or popcorn ceilings. While these are all things you can update yourself, it may not be worth the additional money to try and upgrade the home. Each situation is different, so look at the numbers before you make a firm decision.

Cosmetics. While you will want to avoid some of the more costly upgrades, do look for homes in need of a few cosmetic updates, like new paint or new hardware on the kitchen cabinets. These homes are often priced under market value and could be potentially a great deal! It's amazing what some fresh paint, new light fixtures, or hardware on the cabinet doors can do for a home to help it shine.

Community. How is your community changing? Who is moving in and purchasing homes? Are they primarily first time home buyers, families, retirees? If the main pool of buyers moving into the community were retired, you might want to consider purchasing a rambler. It could certainly help your resale later.

The easiest time to make money on your home is when you're purchasing it, not when you're selling it. It might take a little extra work to find a home with a good resale value, but I assure you the time and effort you put in now to finding that home will more than pay for itself later, when you really need it to.

When it comes to real estate, my goals are simple. Let me put your needs first.

Looking for a Equestrian Property, Investment Property, a Home or Land in Stanwood, Arlington or on Camano Island? Let me put your needs first.

Jen Hudson, GRI (360) 652-1200 or jen@jenhudsonhomes.com