Benford Real Estate, Silicon Valley, Santa Clara County

Is this a Good Time to Move?

In a changing market, it is natural for buyers and sellers to question the timing of a potential move. Nobody wants to buy a home and then see property values drop, or delay a purchase only to see values or interest rates go up. Likewise, sellers may feel an urgency to sell quickly in the midst of a slowing market, or worry that they might have netted more if they had sold a month sooner or a month later.

So when is the best time to pull the trigger and make that big purchase or sale? Simply put, when you are ready. Nobody can control the market or predict with complete certainty what will happen tomorrow. Over the last several years, real estate values have risen so noticeably that we may have forgotten that they do dip from time to time. Fortunately, generations of data demonstrate that despite occasional market slides, long-term real property owners have been consistently rewarded with positive returns on their real estate investments. As the great Mark Twain said, they’re not making land anymore!

In the short term, it is best to focus on the things we can control. The process of buying or selling a home can be very complicated, not just financially and logistically, but emotionally as well. Before making any major decisions, take some time to prepare for the transaction. Discuss needs and goals with the other members of your household, and share these with your financial and real estate advisors. We’re here to help before, during, and after the big move.

The right lighting makes your home comfortable and functional. A bright home also attracts buyers. Here are some tips for lighting up your home to optimize your enjoyment and its sales appeal.

Outside

Put new bulbs that are as bright as the wattage allows in outdoor fixtures. Clean light covers to maximize the light that shines through and to give your home a clean, well-kept look. Consider adding small lights along your driveway or garden to accent your yard’s best features.

Entrance and Hall

A poorly lit entrance hallway can be a disaster when you’re selling your home, as it’s the first thing a potential buyer sees. Install high-wattage bulbs and keep the fixtures clean. Spotlights or recessed lights add flair and can be angled to highlight artwork or make the hall seem bigger.

Bathroom

Bad lighting can be unflattering. In the bathroom, use fluorescent bulbs with a Color Rendering Index (CRI) of 80 or more. This will enhance skin tones and other colors. Make sure you have ample lighting in functional areas such as the tub or shower as well as over the vanity mirror.

Kitchen

Good kitchen lighting is crucial to the cook and can sell your home. Use a mix of lighting: recessed lights in the ceiling, task lighting around work areas such as the stove and counter and accent lights to bring attention to your kitchen’s best features.

Living Room

Throw open the shades and curtains to let in as much natural light as possible. When prospective buyers visit, turn on all the lights to chase away any shadows. Table lamps with 40 or 60 watt bulbs and attractive, translucent shades cast a glow that makes the living room feel just right.