Highlands NC real estate

Highlands NC Homes, Color Matters

November 14, 2021 by lynn

Highlands NC Homes, Color Matters

Lynn Kimball, Highlands NC real estate

Color matters when it comes to Highlands NC homes. This is especially true when it comes time to sell. Not everyone has the same taste and some colors can turn people off. Knowing what colors to stay away from is important. Ultimately, when it comes time to prepare a Highlands NC home for sale it is important to stick to more subtle hues.

What colors work

Neutral tones work the best when it comes to painting the inside of a Highlands home. Grays, beiges, and whites are ideal. However, pale shades of blue and yellow can work well. The important thing s to have colors that enable furniture, textiles, and artwork to fit in. Painting living room walls in kelly green, for example, requires a certain pallet when it comes to furnishings and decor. Whereas a pale beige can fit almost any design theme.

Bold colors can work

An accent wall can work well in a living room or dining room. When just one wall is painted boldly it can stand out in a positive way. This can add a splash of color without overwhelming a room. However, the important thing is to choose a color that most people enjoy. Some colors are more offensive to some than others. This could include magenta and orange, for example. The most important thing is to make a home look its best while appealing to the majority.

Learn more about Highlands NC homes

Contact me, Lynn Kimball, today to learn more about Highlands NC real estate. I welcome the opportunity to update you on the market while answering all of your buying and selling questions. Let my knowledge and experience get you up to speed on current trends, serving as your guide to Highlands NC homes.

Click here to read “Survey Reveals Least Popular Decorating Colors” from REALTOR Magazine.

Highlands NC Real Estate, Buying Before Selling

November 10, 2021 by lynn

Highlands NC Real Estate, Buying Before Selling

Lynn Kimball, Highlands NC real estate

Buying before selling often comes into play with Highlands NC real estate. And, today’s hot buyer market may be seeing more of this phenomenon. Simultaneous buying and selling can come into play when a buyer goes under contract when selling a property at the same time. Buyers are acting quickly in this competitive market and some buyers may be placing offers prior to listing a Highlands NC home for sale.

Important details

Buying before selling is not necessarily an issue or a stressful situation for those with deep pockets. However, for many, this can be a daunting process. The reality is that there are important steps to take to reduce the stress by creating a more seamless process. The first detail is to understand finances. Important questions to ask include: How much can you afford? Will you need a loan? Does a sale need to happen first?

Buying and selling at the same time

When a buyer finds a Highlands NC property to purchase then the offer can include a contingency that requires the sale of his current property first. While not always appealing to a seller, this can work out fine if all of the other elements of a contract are strong. Additionally, a buyer can purchase a property with a bridge loan prior to selling his current home. While typically having a higher interest rate, a bridge loan buys some time when it comes to simultaneous buying and selling.

Learn more about Highlands NC real estate

Having an experienced Highlands NC REALTOR on your side is important when buying and selling a home at the same time. Contact me, Lynn Kimball, today to learn more about buying and selling real estate. I welcome the opportunity to update you on the market while answering all of your questions. Let my knowledge and experience serve as your guide to Highlands NC real estate.

Click here to read “Does It Makes Sense To Buy A New House Before Selling The Old One?” from Realty Times.

Highlands NC Homes, Maintenance Makes Difference

November 6, 2021 by lynn

Highlands NC Homes, Maintenance Makes Difference

Lynn Kimball, Highlands NC homes

Maintenance makes a difference when it comes to Highlands NC homes. Real estate is an investment and protecting an investment is important. Regular and routine maintenance is great for keeping a house in shape but there are other benefits as well. Maintenance can help avoid issues, lengthen the life of systems in a home, and add value when it comes time to sell. After all, a Highlands NC home for sale that is in excellent condition holds far more appeal than one that is in disrepair.

Annual maintenance

There are certain checklist items for a home that should be completed every year in order to keep a home running properly. This includes a fall check on the heating system and a spring check on the AC system. These checks are important to keep a system running properly which can, in turn, prolong its life. While you are checking the heating or cooling systems it doesn’t hurt to take a look at all the plumbing throughout a Highlands NC home and make sure no leaking is occurring. Additionally, having the ducts cleaned annually will keep the air you breathe cleaner and your system free of dust and debris.

Conduct a walkthrough

Walking through Highlands home with a discriminating eye is a great idea. Pay special attention to how windows and doors open. When they do not open and close easily it could be a sign of a bigger issue. It is also a good idea to check fire and carbon monoxide detectors. These devices are critical for the safety of a home and its inhabitants.

Learn more about Highlands NC real estate

Cl ick here to read “Easy Maintenance Tips to Boost Value” from REALTOR Magazine.

Highlands NC Real Estate, Master Suite Appeal

November 2, 2021 by lynn

Highlands NC Real Estate, Master Suite Appeal

Lynn Kimball, Highlands NC real estate

Highlands NC real estate benefits from master suite appeal. A roomy, well-appointed master suite can be a great selling point and additional master suites are even better. This is especially true for vacation homes, where guests are common and privacy is appreciated. Buyers of luxury homes in Highlands NC are certainly looking for comfort, convenience, and space.

Benefits of a master suite

A master suite is more than just a bedroom, it has its own bathroom and closet. Typically a master suite in a luxury Highland NC home will have a sitting area as well. Sometimes the master suite may also incorporate a private deck and a fireplace. Of course, a large organized closet is an added bonus. The more luxurious a master suite is the more appeal it holds.

More can be better

Many Highlands NC homes are vacation homes. This means that guests are common. As such, multiple master suites are welcomed. This is especially true for family homes or homes that are shared with multiple families. A master suite allows privacy, which can mean greater comfort for guests. Adding an extra master suite or two can certainly add value to a Highlands NC home.

Learn more about Highlands NC real estate

Contact me, Lynn Kimball, today to learn more about real estate in Highlands NC. I welcome the opportunity to update you on the market while answering all of your buying and selling questions. Let my knowledge and experience serve as your guide to Highlands NC homes.

Click here to read “Double Master Suites Are a Growing Trend” from REALTOR Magazine.

Highlands NC Real Estate, What Inspection List Means for Sellers

October 31, 2021 by lynn

Highlands NC Real Estate, What Inspection List Means for Sellers

When it comes to Highlands NC real estate transactions many people wonder what an inspection list means for sellers. Every real estate transaction will involve contingencies and the home inspection contingency is the most common. The home inspection will involve an inspection of the property that is under contract. This often means further negotiation which can affect a seller. It is important for a seller to go over the list with his Highlands NC REALTOR.

Inspection report

For the most part, the inspection report belongs to the buyer of a Highlands NC home for sale. However, the list of items to be repaired will most often be presented to a seller with a request that repairs be made. Often these are small, punchiest type items. Sometimes there are bigger issues. It is the bigger issues that can create some stress. A buyer looking at major repairs may change his mind about a house. But, a seller can choose to make repairs to keep a contract alive.

Are repairs necessary?

There is no hard and fast rule that issues found on an inspection report must be fixed or repaired. This is especially true when a Highlands NC home is being sold “as-is”. However, when a buyer requests that repairs be made a response is necessary on the seller’s part. When a seller refuses to make repairs or offers money at closing to do so, it is possible that a buyer can walk away from the deal. No home is perfect but a seller should offer careful consideration to a request and find a comprise if the sale is desired.

Learn more about Highlands NC real estate

Contact me, Lynn Kimball, today to learn more about selling Highlands NC homes. I welcome the opportunity to update you on the market while offering a complimentary listing presentation at the same time. Let my knowledge and experience serve as your guide to Highlands NC real estate.

Click here to read “Home Inspections: What Items Need to Be Fixed?” from REALTOR Magazine.

Selling Highlands NC Real Estate, Always Be Ready for Showings

October 27, 2021 by lynn

Selling Highlands NC Real Estate, Always Be Ready for Showings

Lynn Kimball, Highlands NC real estate

Always be ready for showings when selling Highlands NC real estate. If your home is available and ready then much of the stress related to selling will be relieved. The reality is that many buyers want to be able to see a home on the spur of the moment. As such a home needs to be available and presentable. While this may sound daunting, it doesn’t have to be. Have a plan in place with your Highlands NC REALTOR.

Keep it ready

Having a home available at the drop of a hat does not sound easy, especially for a Highlands NC home for sale that is lived in by more than one person. The best plan is to start by having a home clean, de-cluttered, and looking its best before the very first showing. A solid start is smart and from here a daily picking up of clutter and light clean will keep a home prepared for last-minute showings.

Flexibility

Flexibility is important when it comes to showing a Highlands NC home for sale. This means having a home available at all times. But, this is not always easy. However, a potential buyer needs to be able to see a home if he is going to buy a home. As such, make life as easy on yourself as possible by having a plan. This includes a plan for the pets, the kids, and yourself to be able to clear the home when you least expect it. Committing to selling a home means committing to having it available for showings.

Learn more about selling Highlands NC real estate

Contact me, Lynn Kimball, today to learn more about selling a home in Highlands NC. I welcome the opportunity to update you on the market while sharing a complimentary listing presentation at the same time. Let my knowledge and experience serve as your guide to selling Highlands NC real estate.

Click here to read “5 Mistakes Home Sellers Make” from Realty Times.

Highlands NC Homes, Landscape Matters

October 14, 2021 by lynn

Highlands NC Homes, Landscape Matters

Landscape matters when it comes to Highlands NC homes. Our mountain community is known for its stunning natural environment, inciting a great appreciation for the outdoors. As such, properties capitalize on native plants, bushes, and trees that thrive and add aesthetic value to homes. Outdoor living spaces matter in the mountains and add value and appeal to Highlands NC properties.

Buyers are drawn to beautiful yards

Buyers of Highlands NC real estate are attracted to homes with attractive yards. This can mean simple, understated yet well-kept yards or yards with ornate flower beds and trimmed hedges. Regardless of the extent of the landscaping, utilizing atrial features like creeks and ponds can add ambiance to any home. Everyone wants space to enjoy the fresh mountain air and natural beauty outside and when this can be done at home it adds greatly to anyone’s lifestyle.

Maintenance matters

Maintaining the landscape surrounding a Highlands NC home equates to protecting an investment. This includes the front yard, backyard, and outdoor living spaces like decks, patios, and fire pits. Additionally, spring and fall are great times to focus on these spaces. While spring is a time to prepare for summer, fall is the time to put everything to bed for winter. Right now leaves should be raked, irrigation systems should be blown, and flowers should be cut back. This is also a great time of year for planning landscape improvements for the coming year.

Learn more about Highlands NC homes

Click here to read “Yard Appeal Is a Priority for Buyers” from REALTOR Magazine.

Highlands NC Homes, Value Found In Small Upgrades

October 3, 2021 by lynn

Highlands NC Homes, Value Found In Small Upgrades

Value can be found in small upgrades to Highlands NC homes. While remodeling and renovating can be costly ventures to undertake, there are relatively small projects that pack a punch without a big hit to the budget. Most homeowners spruce up homes prior to listing them for sale. Take time to understand the impact of small projects and how they can help a Highlands NC home for sale.

Front door

A new front door is an easy and impactful home improvement project. After all, the front door is a home’s calling card. The options are to purchase a new door and have it installed or refresh the current door with a coat of stain or paint. Either way, you can have a new look for your Highlands NC home. Ultimately, this is a low-cost way to update a house.

Lighting

Switching out lighting is another easy update for a home. This can include indoor and outdoor lighting. Replacing dated sconces, chandeliers, and recessed lighting with more modern options can add a wow factor. There are so many options and all you need to do is hire an electrician.

Fixtures and findings

Changing out fixtures in the bathrooms and kitchen, as well as findings like doorknobs, hinges, and drawer pulls is another value-added fix. This is perhaps the easiest and most affordable update for a home. Additionally, this is something most homeowners can tackle on their own. Adding value is a big part of homeownership, protecting the investment and helping tremendously when it comes time to sell.

Learn more about Highlands NC homes

Contact me, Lynn Kimball, today to learn more about Highlands NC real estate. I welcome the opportunity to update you on the market while getting you up to speed on current home trends. Let my knowledge and experience serve as your guide to Highlands NC homes.

Click here to read “3 Minor Upgrades That Boost Value Instantly” from REALTOR Magazine.

Highlands NC Homes, Window Treatments Impactful

September 30, 2021 by lynn

Highlands NC Homes, Window Treatments Impactful

Lynn Kimball, Highlands NC real estate

Window treatments are impactful when it comes to Highlands NC homes. Let’s face it, windows are a very important feature in a home. Furthermore, windows frame exceptional views in our mountain environment. As a result, windows are a huge focus and should be treated as such. Whether you are preparing a Highlands NC home for sale or simply redecorating, consider what window treatments will showcase the windows best.

Windows have a lot to offer

Windows offer views, let in natural light, and open to allow fresh air into a Highlands NC home. There are also times when it is desired to close windows and block the light. As a result, window treatments in bedrooms may have different needs from window treatments than windows in a kitchen or living room. In a living room or dining room, for example, window treatments may serve more of a decorative function. Alternately, window treatments in bedrooms will be used on a daily basis.

Design matters

Window treatments can add a lot of flair to any room. Depending on the overall design of a home, these treatments can follow a color scheme that fits with individual spaces. Additionally, windows come in many sizes. As such, length, material, and style come into play. Among the options are Roman shades, shutters, floor-to-ceiling draperies, and simple curtains. Hopping online to sites like Pinterest and Houzz can offer a glimpse of how different styles can affect the overall look and feel of rooms. Consider taking a close look at the windows in a Highlands NC home when looking at a design update.

Learn more about Highlands NC homes

Contact me, Lynn Kimball, today to learn more about Highlands NC real estate. I welcome the opportunity to update you on market conditions and current design trends. Let my knowledge and experience serve as your guide to Highlands NC homes.

Click here to read “Et Tu, Draperies? The Rise of Roman Shades” from Realty Times.

Buying Highlands NC Real Estate, Best Option a New Home?

September 25, 2021 by lynn

Buying Highlands NC Real Estate, Best Option a New Home?

Lynn Kimball, answering all of your Highlands NC real estate questions

If you are buying Highlands NC real estate have you wondered whether your best option might be a new home? Whether buying new construction or buying land on which to build, a new home could be the answer. A new home can hold great appeal. Not only will this home be brand new but it will most likely have the most up-to-date finishes as well. Sit down with your Highlands NC REALTOR to evaluate your options.

New construction or design and build?

When the decision is made to purchase a new home there are options to consider. An existing new house is most likely a spec house, a home designed and built to put on the market when completed. This can be a great option, offering a home that has never been lived in. The only downside of a newly constructed home is that a buyer is not involved in the decision-making process. The layout, design, and finishes have already been chosen. However, this also removes the stress of making these decisions. Building a new home in Highlands NC gives you the opportunity to choose the size, layout, and design of a home.

New home appeal

A new home holds great appeal but it is not for everyone. Many buyers want to bargain for a house and rarely can you bargain for a new Highlands NC home. A fixer-upper can offer an opportunity to create a virtually new home with negotiating room but renovating costs will have to be factored in. New homes have a lot to offer, especially when a buyer cannot find what he is looking for.

Learn more about buying Highlands NC real estate

Contact me, Lynn Kimball, today to learn more about buying a home in Highlands NC. I welcome the opportunity to update you on the market while getting you prepared for your property search. Let my knowledge and experience serve as your guide to buying Highlands NC real estate.

Click here to read “12 Ways Buying New Construction Is Better, Worse, And Way Different From Other Homes” from Realty Times.