As people consider buying a home, one thing I hear as a realtor is, "I don't mind a little remodeling." That's great news - except for one thing: it doesn't quite provide enough detail to your realtor on the extent you'd like to remodel.
To avoid miscommunication and spending time looking at homes that are too much (or too little) remodeling for you, I'd like to suggest some guidelines that can help you be successful in your search.
Level 1 - light remodeling, cosmetic fix-ups
You don't mind painting, taking down wallpaper or ripping up the ghastly shag carpet the last owner thought was "period." You also know your limits and plan to contract out the slightly bigger jobs like refinishing the hardwood floors that are plentiful in our area. (Please note, this also means you recognize that ripping out that shag carpet is necessary to find the hardwood underneath!)
Level 2 - medium remodeling, more tools required
This takes things up a bit. You don't mind getting dusty and dirty - you'll tackle those holes in the plaster or drywall. You'll put down a new floor (be that a hardwood product or tile). Insulation non-existent? No problem. Need to paint the outside when it gets warmer - you are on it. You'll help hang new kitchen cabinets, but would like some help.
Level 3 - major sweat equity remodeling
Alright, let's be realistic here, you have the time to spend away from family after your day job. You would demo some non-load bearing walls. You want to add a fireplace insert into the closed-up firebox. You plan to refinish the hardwood floors yourself. You may even jump up and tackle those 20-year old shingles and put on new ones. And a kitchen, bring it on!
Now you know what you can handle physically. Follow-up by knowing your budget constraints and you're ready jump in with both feet. Telling your realtor these kinds of details will help you be shown the right kinds of "remodels" and avoids you being discouraged.
This is a great market to find some real deals in some hard-to-enter areas - I know, I've got offers on two of them.
Happy hunting!
Guy Adams
Real help & advice for Real People: Licensed In Ohio & KY www.guyadamshome.com
Licensed In Ohio & KY
As a lifelong Greater Cincinnati resident, llicensed in Ohio & Kentucky, I am uniquely qualified to serve my clients on both sides of the river. It's never been more important an agent to bring a serving heart to their clients. I pride myself on answering the questions my clientele has not yet asked & successfully guiding them through these complicated transactions.
My goal is not to have a happy client at the closing table but years later when they have the benefit of hindsight.
I'm a graduate of Miami University & I live in Kennedy Heights with my wife Stefanie and my children Gretchen & Isaac. I donate a portion of all my commissions to Crossroads Community Church to fuel the lifechanging work that goes on there.
My personal philosphy mirrors my business approach. We're put in this world to help each other, not profit at our neighbors expense.
My work as a Realtor is how I serve my neighbors...
4990 E. Galbraith Rd. Suite 101
Cincinnati, Ohio 45236
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If you're purchasing a new home, I'll help you find one that meets your needs and complements your lifestyle. Once you've made your selection, I can assist you in acquiring financing, negotiating with the seller and completing the transaction.
I will:
Work on your behalf to streamline your home search, first expanding your choices, then helping you narrow the field.
Research "comparable" properties to determine a fair price and terms.
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Offer many value-added benefits. If you are dissatisfied after signing, I will allow you to be released from the listing contract free of charge with no questions asked. Being 100% committed, I can make this offer.
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