Michelle Roethle Your NorthWest "Real Estate Solution"

I have a buyer that is in a contract to purchase a home. I got a call today that he and his significant other where split up. I wouldn't doubt that this the first time in history that this has happened in the middle of a contract. Any thoughts on how to save this one?

When building a new home or purchasing one underway there are a few tips I like to remind my clients about. One of them would be outlets- you will never have enough, and neither will the next person who buys your home. The other would be insulation between the walls, and ceiling. This is best done of course during the building process, and will be something you will not regret. I recently walked into a house under construction through the garage and could not believe my ears when I entered the well insulated home-quiet. It felt so intimate. the conversation we were conducting was no longer bouncing off the walls, but was now just for those of us in that room to hear. Imagine the effects on noisy kids upstairs, or a barking dog, or working at your home office in peace with the family just in the other room. It is a great way to appreciate your new home while it appreciates!For more information on new homes and improving existing ones call Dinah and Michelle at 360-551-8888 or visit us on the web at NowYouAreLiving.com

What do you do with pets when your house is on the market? A lot of people hurry home before a showing and put them in the garage or a back bedroom. Is this really the best? Selling a house can be hard on everyone including the pets. It is your dogs job to protect your home, and with all of the strangers just trying to get a look at it, it can be very stressful for Fido. A veterinarian can be a great resource for pet advice when selling your home, and can make it an easier experience for everyone including mans best friend.

Typically I hold open houses on Sunday from 12:00 to 2:00. This works really well. There are always a lot of people out an about on Sunday who stop in. I hope I am not in a rut. It has become routine for me, and maybe this is good. What are your experiences with open house hours? Have you had much luck on the weekdays? I would love to hear your ideas.

Do you recommend that Sellers repaint everything in neutral tones? I have had a few clients with some really bright ideas. I happen to love what they did, and the house sold. Do you think that paint color can make a difference or is it just that the home looked crisp and well cared for? Would you change the color?