The Seller's Checklist: How To Leave Your Home in Perfect Condition

Here’s what you need to know about prepping your home for sale. 

You've just successfully sold your home, and now it's time to discuss the top three crucial steps to take as you prepare to move out and hand it over to the new owner:

1. Leave everything clean. Ensure that the home is spotlessly clean, both inside and out. Imagine yourself moving into this property; how would you feel if it were left in a dirty state? To illustrate the importance of this, I'll share some images depicting the condition in which a home was left by its previous occupants. My buyers were truly disheartened by the piles of dust and the presence of food in the fridge. The unkempt yard didn't help either. As a seller, your goal should be to leave the home in a condition that you would appreciate as a buyer.

“Make sure you avoid any misunderstandings.”

2. Organize essential items. Compile all the manuals, remotes, keys, and paint samples in one easily accessible place. This organized collection will greatly assist the new owner when they need to reprogram a lock, operate a fan, or reference any related information. By doing this, you're making their transition into the home smoother and more convenient.

3. Make sure agreed-upon items are present. If you've agreed to include specific appliances or items with the property, it's crucial to ensure they are still there when the new buyer arrives. Unfortunately, misunderstandings can sometimes occur, and sellers may inadvertently remove items they promised to leave behind. To prevent such issues, maintain clear communication and double-check that everything agreed upon remains in place.

As always, don’t hesitate to call or email me with any questions. I look forward to hearing from you and helping you on your real estate journey!

The Austin Experience: Pros and Cons of Calling the Texas Capital Home

Five reasons why you might think twice about living in Austin, TX.

If you're considering a move to Austin, Texas, there are certainly some factors to weigh in your decision-making process. Austin is known for its vibrant culture, beautiful weather, and thriving economy, but like any city, it has its downsides. Here are the top five reasons why some people might think twice about calling Austin home:

1) Climate. Austin's climate is undeniably appealing for most of the year, boasting nearly 80% of days filled with sunshine. However, the downside comes during the scorching summer months when the city feels like an inferno. But don't fret; Austin residents have found creative ways to beat the heat. With numerous public pools and the convenience of nearby airports for quick escapes to cooler destinations, there are ways to stay cool when the Texas sun blazes.

2) Property taxes. One significant drawback of living in Austin is its property taxes, which are among the highest in the United States. However, there's a silver lining–Texas doesn't impose state income tax. So, while you may face hefty property taxes, you won't have to worry about an additional income tax burden.

“Embracing these aspects can make your experience in the Texas capital all the more enriching.”

3) The cost of living. Austin's affordability has been declining in recent years. Home prices have steadily increased, with prices doubling approximately every decade in the last century. Additionally, the cost of living isn't helped by the fact that a simple margarita at a local bar can set you back around $18. However, despite these rising costs, Austin still hasn't cracked the top 10 list of the most expensive cities in the nation. For comparison, seven out of 10 of those cities are still in California.

4) Political polarization. Austin's political climate can be a bit polarizing, and it depends on your perspective. Some may find the city too conservative, while others consider it too liberal. However, many Austinites appreciate the diverse range of opinions and the lively clash of ideas that keeps the city in a constant state of political debate. Being in the middle of these ideological currents can be seen as an opportunity for personal growth and understanding.

5) The ever-changing landscape. One thing is certain about Austin–it's always evolving. New businesses continually flock to the city, while older ones might fade away. The rapid growth can be overwhelming at times, but it also provides endless opportunities for exploration, learning, and personal development. Austin's dynamic nature is one of its defining characteristics, and for many residents, this constant change is an exciting aspect of city life.

Austin may not be a perfect fit for everyone, but it's undeniably a unique and vibrant place to live. If you need guidance on your real estate plans in Austin or anywhere across the country, don't hesitate to reach out to me by phone or email.