Selling Your House on Your Own Could Cost You

Renee Hillman on February 4, 2019

For Sale By Owners Net Less Money

In this fast moving, hot real estate market, some homeowners might consider selling their homes on their own or For Sale by Owner (FSBO). They believe that they don’t need a real estate agent and that they can save the commission for the services a real estate agent offers.

However, a study by Collateral Analytics reveals that FSBOs don’t actually save anything, and in many cases may be costing themselves more, by not using the services of an experienced agent.

In the study, they analyzed home sales in a variety of markets. The data showed that:

“FSBOs tend to sell for lower prices than comparable home sales, and in many cases below the average differential represented by the prevailing commission rate.” 

Why would FSBOs net less money than if they had used an agent?

The study makes several suggestions:
“There could be systematic bias on the buyer side, particularly buyers who rationalize lower-priced bids with the logic that the seller is “saving” on commission. Such buyers might specifically target sellers who are not being represented by a skilled agent.” In other words, ‘bargain lookers’ might shop FSBOs in hopes of getting a deal.
“Experienced agents are experts at ‘staging’ homes for sale” which could bring more money for the home.”
“Properties listed with a broker will be listed online with all other participating broker websites, marketing the home to a much larger buyer population. And those MLS properties generally offer compensation to agents who represent buyers, incentivizing them to show and sell the property and potentially enlarging the buyer pool.” If more buyers see a home, the greater the chances are that there could be a bidding war for the property.

Conclusions from the study:

FSBOs achieve prices significantly lower than those from similar properties sold by Realtors using the MLS.
The data suggests the average price was near 6% lower for FSBO sales of similar properties.

Bottom Line

As Dave Ramsey, America’s trusted voice on money, explains:

“Research has shown that, between mistakes, lack of negotiating skills, pricing errors and general exposure on the market, you’ll cost yourself more than the real estate commission…You’ll come out slightly better and with a lot less hassle if you use a top-shelf agent.”

HREG Moving Guide: 7 Steps to a Painless Move

Renee Hillman on June 13, 2018

Whatever your reasons are for relocating to a new area, the process can feel overwhelming.
Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, you’ll be changing more than your address. Besides a new house, you may also be searching for new jobs, schools, doctors, restaurants, stores, service providers and more.

Of course, you’ll need to pack, make moving arrangements, and possibly sell your old home. With so much to do, you may be wondering: Where do I start?

In this moving guide, we outline seven steps to help you get prepared, get organized, and get settled in your new community. Our hope is to alleviate the hassle of relocating—so you can focus on the exciting adventure ahead!

1. Gather Information

If you’re unfamiliar with your new area, start by doing some research. Look for data on average housing prices, demographics, school rankings, and crime statistics. Search for maps that illustrate local geography, landmarks, public transportation routes, and major interstates. If you’re moving across the country, research climate and seasonal weather patterns.

Check out local newspapers and blogs for information on political issues and developments that could impact your new community. You may also want to search for Facebook Community Groups in your new area. These can be a great place to find information, ask questions, get recommendations, meet people, and just observe local attitudes and outlooks.

If you’re relocating for a job, find out if your new employer offers any relocation assistance. Many large corporations have a designated human resources professional to assist employees with relocation efforts, while others may contract this service out to a third-party. Some employers will also cover all or a portion of your relocation and moving costs.

By gathering this information upfront, you’ll be better prepared to make informed decisions down the road.

Let us know if you’d like assistance with your information gathering process. We have a wealth of knowledge about this area, and we keep a number of reports and statistics on file in our office. We would be happy to share information and answer any questions you may have.

2. Identify Your Ideal Neighborhoods

Once you’ve sufficiently researched your new area, you can start to identify your ideal neighborhoods.

The first step is to prioritize your “needs” and “wants.” Consider factors such as budget; commute time; quality of schools; crime rate; walkability; access to public transportation; proximity to restaurants, shopping, and place of worship; and neighborhood vibe. Check out our Community pages for a wealth of information on different counties, towns, neighborhoods, and even popular subdivisions that have much of this information in one convenient place to help you narrow your search.

If possible, visit the area in person to get a feel for the community. If you’re comfortable, strike up conversations with local residents and ask about their experiences living in the area.

Still not sure which neighborhood is the best fit for you and your family? Contact us and we will make some suggestions based on your desires and lifestyle. It’s usually the most efficient and effective way to narrow down your options. Or, if you’re moving out-of-town, we can refer you to a local agent who can help.

3. Find Your New Home (and Sell Your Old One)

Once you’ve narrowed down your list of preferred neighborhoods, it’s time to start looking for a home. If you haven’t already contacted a real estate agent, now is the time. We can search for current property listings that meet your needs, at no cost to you.

Create another list of “needs” and “wants,” but this time for your new home. Include your basic requirements for square footage, bedrooms, and bathrooms, but also think about what other factors are important to you and your family. An updated kitchen? A large backyard? Double sinks in the master bathroom?

Narrow your list down to your top 10 and prioritize them in order of importance. This will give you a good starting point to begin your home search. Unless you have an unlimited budget, don’t expect to find a home with everything on your list. But having a prioritized list can help you (and your agent) understand which home features are the most important, and which ones you may be willing to sacrifice.

If you already own a home, you’ll also need to start the process of selling it or renting it out. We can help you evaluate your options based on current market conditions. We can also give you an idea of how much equity you have in your current home so you know how much you can afford to spend on your new one.

As your agent, we can also advise you on how to time your sale and purchase. While some buyers are able to qualify for and cover the costs of two concurrent mortgages, many are not. There are a number of options available, and as a skilled agent, we can help you determine the best course given your circumstances.

We would love to assist you if you have plans to buy or sell a home in our area. Please contact us to schedule a free strategy session so we can discuss your unique needs and devise a custom plan to make your move as painless as possible. If you’re relocating outside of our area, we can help you find a trusted agent in your new city.

4. Prepare for Your Departure

While everyone considers packing a fundamental part of moving, we often overlook the emotional preparation that needs to take place. If you have children, this can be especially important. Communicate the move in an age-appropriate way, and if possible take them on a tour of your new home and neighborhood. This can alleviate some of the mystery and apprehension around the move.

Allow yourself plenty of time to pack up your belongings. Before you start, gather supplies, including boxes, tape, tissue paper, and bubble wrap. Begin with non-essentials—such as off-season clothes or holiday decorations—and sort items into four categories: take, trash, sell and donate/give away. Here ate Hillman Real Estate Group we work with a lot of charities like the Green Chair Project and Note in the Pocket that would be grateful to have your donations and those donations go directly to helping our local community.

To make the unpacking process easier, be sure to label the top and sides of boxes with helpful information, including contents, room, and any special instructions. Keep a master inventory list so you can refer back to it if something goes missing.

If you will be using a moving company, start researching and pricing your options. To ensure an accurate estimate of your final cost, it’s best to have them conduct an in-person walkthrough. Make sure you’re working with a reputable company, and avoid paying a large deposit before your belongings are delivered.

If you plan to drive to your new home, map out the route. And, if necessary, make arrangements for overnight accommodations along the way. If driving is not a good option, you may need to have your vehicles transported and make travel arrangements for you, your family and your pets.

Lastly, if you will be leaving friends or family behind, schedule final get-togethers before your departure. The last days before moving can be incredibly hectic, so make sure you block off some time in advance for proper goodbyes.

Looking for a reputable moving company? We have many vendors we have worked with, some which offer our clients exclusive discounts, as well as recommendations on where to procure packing supplies at the best price.

5. Prepare for Your Arrival

To make your transition go smoothly, prepare for your arrival well before moving day. Depending on how long your belongings will take to arrive, you may need to arrange for temporary hotel accommodations. If you plan to move in directly, pack an “essentials box” with everything you’ll need for the first couple of nights in your new home, such as toiletries, toilet paper, towels, linens, pajamas, cell phone chargers, snacks, pet food and a change of clothes. This will keep you from searching through boxes after an exhausting day of moving.

Arrange in advance for your utilities to be turned on, especially essentials like water, electricity, and gas. (And while you’re at it, schedule a shut-off date for your current utilities.) Ask us for a list of the local utility companies and their contact information. Update your address on all accounts and subscriptions and arrange to have your mail forwarded through the postal service. If you have children, register them for their new school or daycare and arrange for the transfer of any necessary records.

You may want to have the house professionally cleaned before moving in. And if you plan to remodel, paint or install new flooring, it’s easier to have it done before you bring in all of your belongings. However, it’s not always feasible without someone you trust locally who can supervise. We have vendors we know and trust that we would be happy to arrange for you. Another option is to keep a portion of your things in storage while you complete some of these projects.

If there are no window treatments, you may need to install some (or at least put up temporary privacy film), especially in bedrooms and bathrooms. And if appliances are missing, consider purchasing them ahead of time and arranging for delivery and installation shortly after you arrive. Just be sure to check measurements and installation instructions carefully so you aren’t stuck with an appliance that doesn’t fit or that requires costly modifications to your new home.

If you own a car, check the requirements for a driver’s license and vehicle registration in your new area and contact your insurance company to update your policy. If you will rely on public transportation, research options and schedules.

If you’re relocating to our area, we can help! We offer “VIP Relocation Assistance” to all of our buyer clients. Contact us for a list of preferred hotels, utility providers, housekeepers, contractors and more!

6. Get Settled In Your New Home

While staring at an endless pile of boxes can feel daunting, you should take advantage of this opportunity to make a fresh start. By creating a plan ahead of time, you can ensure your new house is thoughtfully laid out and well-organized.

If you followed our suggestion to pack an “essentials box” (see Step 5), you should have easy access to everything you’ll need to get you through the first couple of nights in your new home. This will allow you some breathing room to unpack your remaining items in a deliberate manner, instead of rushing through the process.

If you have young children, consider unpacking their rooms first. Seeing their familiar items can help them establish a sense of comfort and normalcy during a confusing time. Then move on to any items you use on a daily basis.

Pets can also get overwhelmed by new, unfamiliar space. Let them adjust to a single room first, which should include their favorite toys, treats, food and water bowl, and a litter box for cats. Once they seem comfortable, you can gradually introduce them to other rooms in the home.

As you unpack, make a list of items that need to be purchased so you’re not making multiple trips to the store. Also, start a list of needed repairs and installations. If you have a home warranty, find out what’s covered and the process for filing a service order.

Although you may be eager to get everything unpacked, it’s important to take occasional breaks. Have some fun, relax and explore your new hometown! Want some ideas for fun things to do in your town? Check out our Communities page for some ideas.

Need help with unpacking, organizing or decorating your new home? Contact us for a list of recommended professionals in our area. And when you’re ready to start exploring local “hot spots,” we’d love to fill you in on our favorite restaurants, stores, parks, and other attractions!

7. Get Involved In Your New Community

People who have recently moved tend to be isolated socially, more stressed, and less likely to participate in exercise and hobbies. However, there are ways to combat these negative effects.

First, get out and explore. Studies show recent movers were shown to spend less time on physical activities and more time on their computers, which has been proven to lead to feelings of depression and loneliness. Instead, get out of your house and investigate your new area. And if you travel on foot, you’ll gain the advantages of fresh air and exercise.

Combat feelings of isolation by making an effort to meet people in your new community. Find a local interest group, take a class, join a place of worship or volunteer for a cause. Great resources for these groups are Meetup.com and local Facebook Groups. Don’t wait for friends to come knocking on your door. Instead, go out and find them.

Finally, be a good neighbor. Make an effort to introduce yourself to your new neighbors, invite them over for coffee or dinner, and offer assistance when they need it. Once you’ve developed friendships and a support system within your new neighborhood, it will truly start to feel like home.

Want more ideas on how to get involved in your community? Download a free copy of our report, “10 Tips to Turn Your Neighborhood Into a Hometown Haven.”

LET’S GET MOVING

While moving is never easy, these seven steps offer an action plan to get you started on your new adventure. To avoid getting overwhelmed, focus on one step at a time. And don’t hesitate to ask for help! With a little preparation—and the right team of professionals to assist you—it is possible to have a positive relocation experience. Love checklists? Download our Seamless Move Checklist!

We specialize in assisting home buyers and sellers with a painless and stress-free relocation. Along with our referral network of movers, handymen, housekeepers, decorators, contractors, and other service providers, we can help take the hassle and headache out of your upcoming move. Give us a call at 919-877-6708 or email us at Renee@HREGSells.com to begin your move!

10 Staging Secrets From the Pros for a Quick Home Sale at Top Dollar

Renee Hillman on May 22, 2018

According to the National Association of Realtors, staging a home prior to listing it can result in a faster and more profitable sale.1 In fact, the Real Estate Staging Association estimates that professionally staged properties spend 73 percent less time on the market, receive more foot traffic, and typically sell for more money.2

Staging for Success

Source: National Association of Realtors

Following are 10 tips you can use to get your home “show ready” prior to hitting the market. These easy and cost-effective ideas will help your house look its best—and help buyers visualize themselves living there. Even if you’re not currently in the market to sell, you can use these tactics to breathe new life into your existing home decor.

To get a plan customized for your particular property, give us a call to schedule a free consultation. We’d be happy to share our insider knowledge of the buyer preferences in your neighborhood … so you’ll know where to focus your time, money and energy to maximize your results.

1.REMOVE CLUTTER

Decluttering is typically the first thing we tell clients to do to prepare their home for sale. And according to the National Association of Realtors, a whopping 93 percent of agents agree.1 Decluttering is the act of removing excess “stuff” from your home to make it appear clean and spacious.

Overflowing closets and cluttered countertops can make your house feel small and cramped. In contrast, sparsely-filled closets and clear countertops will make your home appear larger and assure buyers that there will be plenty of room to store their belongings.

Don’t neglect drawers, cupboards and even your refrigerator in your decluttering efforts. Serious buyers will check out every nook and cranny of your home, so pack up anything you don’t use on a daily basis and store it off site. The same goes for jewelry, sensitive documents, prescription medication, firearms and other items of value. Store them in a locked safe or storage unit before opening your property to buyers.

Make sure any items that remain are clean, tidy and well organized. The good news is, when it comes time to move, a large portion of your packing will be done!

 

2.DEEP CLEAN AND DEODORIZE

From carpets to bathrooms to appliances, having a clean home is a MUST. If you’ve ever checked into a dirty hotel room, you can imagine how buyers can be turned off by a home that hasn’t been thoroughly cleaned.

If you have a large home, or are short on time, you may want to invest in a professional cleaning service. And if you have carpet, we generally recommend you rent a steam cleaner or hire a company to clean your carpets for you.

In addition to cleaning, it’s equally important to neutralize odors in your home that can be off-putting to buyers, especially pet smells and cigarette smoke. If the weather allows, open your windows and let in fresh air. Empty the trash frequently, and especially before a showing. Avoid cooking any strong-smelling food such as fish or heavy spices. You may need to clean (or remove) drapes and upholstery if odors are particularly strong.

Try to keep your home in clean, show-ready condition while it’s on the market. You never know when a potential buyer will want to drop by for a viewing.

3.DEPERSONALIZE

Your family photos and personal mementos are often your most treasured possessions. For many of us, they are what make a house a home. However, buyers will have a hard time envisioning themselves living in a place if it feels like YOUR home.

Pack up any items that are personal to you and your family, such as photos, books, children’s artwork, travel souvenirs and religious items. Collectibles and excessive knickknacks can be distracting to buyers. Instead, keep your decor items minimal and generic to appeal to the largest number of buyers.

4.NEUTRALIZE YOUR COLOR PALETTE

Along those same lines, bold color choices may not appeal to all buyers. By incorporating a neutral color palette throughout your home, buyers can better visualize the addition of their own furniture and decor, which may contrast with your current color scheme.

But don’t limit yourself to white and beige. Incorporating earth tones and midtone neutrals—like mocha and “greige” (grey-beige)—can add a touch of modern sophistication to your decor.3

 

One of the quickest and most cost-effective ways to neutralize your home’s decor is with paint. Walls painted in dark, bold or bright colors can turn off buyers. A fresh coat of paint in a neutral color like greige (try Benjamin Moore’s Revere Pewter) or warm white (such as Kelly-Moore’s Rotunda White) offers a clean palette upon which buyers can visualize adding their own personal touches.4

If your sofa is worn, stained or has a bold pattern, consider purchasing a neutral-colored slipcover. Dated or overly busy window coverings should be taken down or replaced. Instead, bring in tasteful pops of color with throw pillows and accessories.

5.INCREASE YOUR CURB APPEAL

You only get one chance to make a first impression. According to a 2017 report by the National Association of Realtors, 44 percent of home buyers drove by a property after viewing it online but did NOT go inside for a walkthrough.5 That means if your curb appeal is lacking, buyers may never make it through the door.

Walk around your home and look for any neglected areas that might seem like “red flags” to buyers, such as missing roof shingles or rotted siding. Trim trees and shrubs if needed, and make sure your lawn and flower beds are well maintained. Add some colorful flowers to your front beds and/or flower boxes to brighten up your landscaping.

Make sure the exterior of your home is as clean as the interior. This can often be accomplished with a simple garden hose. But if your siding, walkway, or driveway are stained or dingy, you may want to rent a pressure washer.

Thoroughly wash windows and screens, and remove and store dark solar screens if you have them. Open shutters, curtains and blinds, which will not only make your house look more inviting from the outside, it will brighten the inside.

Consider a fresh coat of paint on your front door, trim and shutters. And small, cosmetic improvements like new house numbers, a colorful wreath and a clean front doormat can have a big impact.6

6.FRESHEN KITCHENS AND BATHS

Kitchens and bathrooms will show better and appear larger if all items are cleared from the countertops, except for one or two decorative pieces.7 You should have already packed up non-essentials during your decluttering process, and the remaining items should be neatly stored in pantries and cupboards.

If your cabinets are dingy or outdated, adding a fresh coat of paint and new hardware is an easy and inexpensive way to make them modern and bright. Consider purchasing new shower curtains, bath mats and towels for the bathrooms and new dish towels for the kitchen.

Before each showing, make sure kitchens and baths are spotless and trash cans are empty and out of sight. To add a comforting aroma, try baking cookies, or in the fall, simmer some cinnamon sticks and cloves in a pot of water before you leave the house. In the spring, try a vase of fresh cut lilacs.7

7.SET THE TABLE

Buyers often imagine hosting family gatherings in their new home, and the dining room plays a large role in that vision. If your dining room chairs are stained or outdated, you may want to recover them or use slipcovers. In most cases, an imperfect table can be camouflaged with a neutral and stylish tablecloth.

Be sure the table is centered underneath the chandelier and on the area rug if you’re using one. If your dining room is small, remove all other furniture and leave only four chairs.8

Dress up the table using nice tableware and cloth napkins or a table runner and centerpiece. For a long table, try lining up a series of small vessels down the middle.

 

8.REARRANGE FURNITURE

Start in your living room and think about what you want to emphasize (and de-emphasize) about the space. For example, do you have a beautiful fireplace or a stunning view? If so, arrange the furniture with that focal point in mind. Use a symmetrical seating arrangement to create a cozy conversation area adjacent to the focal point.

If the room is small, consider removing some of the furniture to make it feel larger, especially oversized pieces. That includes oversized television sets, unless it’s a designated media room. Pulling furniture away from the wall can make the room feel more spacious, and placing your largest furniture piece in the far-left corner (as opposed to near the entry) can create the illusion of a larger space.9

For small bedrooms, remove all the furniture except the bed, bedside tables and a dresser. If it’s a large room, add one or two chairs and a table to create a seating area. Place lamps on the bedside tables and seating area if you have one.10

Make sure each space in your home has a clearly defined purpose. For example, if you’ve been using an extra bedroom as a catch-all storage space, stage it as a guest room or office instead. Turn an awkward alcove into a workstation or a reading corner. Help buyers imagine how they could use the space themselves.3

9.LIGHTEN UP

Lighting can have a drastic impact on the look and feel of a home. Few buyers seek out a dark house; most prefer one that’s light and bright. Make sure windows are clean, and open curtains and blinds to let in the maximum amount of daylight.

Each room should have three types of lighting: ambient (general or overhead), task (such as a reading lamp or under-cabinet light), and accent (such as a floor or table lamp). Aim for a goal of 100 total watts per 50 square feet.11 If your mounted light fixtures are dated, replacing them with something more modern is an easy and inexpensive upgrade that can have a big impact.

Strategically placed landscape lighting can add a dramatic effect to your home’s exterior. Welcome evening visitors with a lighted walkway, or use a spotlight to accentuate trees or other landscaping features. Solar lights require no wiring; simply place them in a sunny spot and they will turn on automatically at dusk.

10.HIGHLIGHT YOUR BACKYARD’S BEST FEATURES

While your home’s interior often takes center stage, don’t forget about staging your home’s outdoor areas to help buyers imagine how they could utilize the space.

Even a small patio can become a selling feature with the addition of a cafe table and chairs. Add a tray of plates and coffee cups to help buyers envision a peaceful breakfast on the back porch. Place chairs and wine glasses around an outdoor firepit or hang a hammock with a book in your favorite shady spot.3 These small, simple additions can help buyers visualize the possibilities your backyard has to offer.

BEFORE YOU GET STARTED

If you’re in the market to sell your home, this list provides a great starting point for your preparations. But nothing beats the trained eye and expertise of a real estate agent. Before you do any work, we recommend consulting a professional for advice about your particular property.

We offer free, no-commitment seller consultations and will walk through your home with you to help you assess which projects and upgrades are worth your time and money, and which ones you can skip.

As local market experts, we are intimately familiar with buyer preferences in your area. We’ll run a comparative market analysis to find out how your home compares to others currently on the market, as well as those that have recently sold. Then we’ll tailor a custom plan to suit your particular property, budget and needs.

Please call or email us today with questions or to schedule a free consultation!

Want more helpful homeowner tips? Check this out!

Sources:

  1. National Association of Realtors –
    https://www.nar.realtor/sites/default/files/migration_files/reports/2017/2017-profile-of-home-staging-07-06-2017.pdf
  2. Real Estate Staging Association –
    http://www.realestatestagingassociation.com/content.aspx?page_id=22&club_id=304550&module_id=164548
  3. Houzz –
    https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/2661221/list/sell-your-home-fast-21-staging-tips
  4. HGTV –
    https://www.hgtv.com/design/outdoor-design/landscaping-and-hardscaping/10-curb-appeal-tips-from-the-pros-pictures
  5. National Association of Realtors –
    https://www.nar.realtor/sites/default/files/reports/2017/2017-home-buyer-and-seller-generational-trends-03-07-2017.pdf
  6. The Spruce –
    https://www.thespruce.com/must-try-neutral-paint-colors-797983
  7. HouseLogic –
    https://www.houselogic.com/sell/preparing-your-home-to-sell/home-staging-checklist/
  8. com –
    http://www.stagemyownhome.com/staging-the-dining-room.html
  9. com –
    https://www.realtor.com/advice/sell/small-living-room-staging-tricks/
  10. SFGATE –
    http://homeguides.sfgate.com/stage-master-bedroom-34573.html
  11. HGTV –
    https://www.hgtv.com/shows/designed-to-sell/15-secrets-of-home-staging-pictures

Get an Insider’s Look at Top Triangle Neighborhoods in Raleigh and Apex!

Renee Hillman on November 29, 2015

Want the inside scoop on some of the best neighborhoods in Raleigh and Apex? Read up on Inside Wade in Raleigh and Salem Village and Scotts Mill in Apex in our Neighborhoods section at https://hregsells.com/neighborhoods/! A sneak peek of what you’ll find in each neighborhood feature is below.

Raleigh: Inside Wade

Inside Wade is nestled in one of Raleigh’s best locations. Conveniently located right off of both 40 & 440 which makes getting to RTP, Downtown, Cary & sporting events a breeze. You can even bike to Umstead State Park or walk to the PNC Arena & Carter Finley Stadium. Keep reading at https://hregsells.com/area/inside-wade/.
Apex: Salem Village

Residents love the Salem Village neighborhood in Apex because of its close proximity to downtown Apex (just over a mile away), US 1, I-540, and the short commute into neighboring Raleigh. Apex Elementary School is within walking distance and the neighborhood shares a border with a conservation area. Learn more about this beautiful neighborhood at https://hregsells.com/area/salem-village-in-apex/!

Apex: Scotts Mill

Located off Apex-Barbecue Road in Apex, North Carolina (the Peak of Good Living!), homes in the Scotts Mill neighborhood feature several variations of neo-classical designs, in both townhomes and single-family detached homes. Scotts Mill is convenient to I-540 and is near both Beaver Creek and the Beaver Creek Greenway. Residents are also just two miles away from charming Downtown Apex, which is home to a vibrant local shopping and dining district. (There’s also a mini-shopping center within the neighborhood – unique to this area!) Find out more insider’s tips about Scotts Mill in Apex at https://hregsells.com/area/scotts-mill-in-apex/.

There will be more neighborhoods featured in the coming months on Renee-Sells.com, so be sure to stay tuned to find where we feature next!

Got questions about these areas or would you like to visit available homes for sale in any of these neighborhoods? Give me a call at 919-877-6708 or email me at Renee@HREGSells.com to set a date!

Ask Renee: What the Heck Do I Do with Old Paint?!

Renee Hillman on October 9, 2015

I know this is a burning question in many of your minds, so I decided to figure out what the heck to do with old paint in the Triangle area!

For those of you that don’t know: you aren’t allowed to put paint cans in the trash in Wake County and other surrounding areas. I literally had about 40 gallons to get rid of, so I decided to figure out the responsible solution. (And yes, I will admit I have a color obsession and constantly change the wall colors in my house! Not to mention, I like trying new colors on a chair outside or a barstool inside or painting something metallic like a mirror!)

Over the years, my obsession with trying new paint colors has left a graveyard of old paint cans taking up valuable storage space, collecting dust, and cobwebs in my garage, so here are just a few of the options I found as alternatives to throwing away old buckets of paint in the curbside trash collection.

Disposing of Old Paint

If cans of paint are full, unopened, and not rusted, you can donate them to the various Triangle-area Habitat for Humanity ReStore locations (Raleigh, Cary, Apex, Fuquay-Varina, and Wake Forest). This would have been a great option, but most of my cans didn’t fit that criteria. Here is a helpful link to items that ReStore will take if you happen to be doing lots of cleaning out in general: http://wakerestore.org/donate/donations-needed/. There are lots of advantages in donating, including helping your community and you may be able to get a charitable tax write off… be sure to consult your CPA.
Old, already opened cans of paint are considered household hazardous waste, so the South Wake Landfill is the place to go. The South Wake Landfill is located at 6130 Old Smithfield Road in Apex. For you North Raleigh folks, there is a location on your side of town at 9037 Deponie Drive in Raleigh, but the WakeGov Household Hazardous Waste website warns that the North Wake location is currently under construction and may have service delays (as of December 2015 – check again online before you plan a trip!

Other Ideas for Old Paint

If you’ve found a good amount of paint that might be reusable for future projects, don’t throw it away just yet! Household expert Bob Vila recommends combining colors you may not use again by themselves for other purposes, like “mixing leftovers of the same paint type (latex with latex, acrylic with acrylic, oil with oil) to use as an undercoat primer”.

Holding onto that paint for a while? Lowes.com recommends sealing the paint promptly and properly to avoid it drying up and storing in a cool, dry area to preserve it as long as possible for future projects – a basement is a great place – but make sure to put it on a shelf so any moisture on the floor doesn’t rust the can.

More “Ask Renee” Coming Soon!

Got other burning questions for my next “Ask Renee” post? Send me an email at Renee@HREGSells.com and I’ll tackle it ASAP here on the blog for you!

Make Your Spring Move a Breeze with These Free and Low-Cost Moving Tips

Renee Hillman on January 5, 2015

Spring is a popular time for home buying and the resulting move that comes along with it. Although the winter weather we’ve had in the Triangle this week doesn’t make it feel too much like spring is coming soon, it’ll be here before you know it. So if you’re planning a spring move, read through these tips now and get to work early to make quick work of your next big move.

Spring Clean – Six Weeks Out: Before you pack a single thing for your move, clean up and clean out what you can first. Linen/hall closets, bedroom closets, attics, pantries, outdoor storage units and garages – in you’re being honest, they could probably all use a good purging. Trash what’s become unusable, donate what you no longer need that is still in good to great condition, and neatly put away the things you plan to take to your next home with you.

Keep an Eye out for Sales on Things You’ll Need to Buy – Four Weeks Out: Start watching for sales of Rubbermaid (and the like) storage containers at retailers like Lowe’s, Home Depot, Target, etc. These not only make packing for a move easy, but are still useful for outdoor and attic storage once you’ve moved into your new digs. Buy them once for less than $10 each, keep them for life.

Get Quotes From Movers – Four to Three Weeks Out: If you’re considering hiring a moving company, now is the time to start getting quotes. Be sure to have all costs included in the quote, including any fees outside of labor like truck rental, packaging materials, travel costs, etc.

Collect Boxes & Moving Supplies – Three Weeks Out: Thanks to sites like Craigslist and Freecycle, one of the things you shouldn’t have to budget for if you plan accordingly is boxes. Businesses regularly allow pick-up of free boxes (ABC stores here in NC!) and many residents offer up boxes from recent moves rather than sending them out for trash and recycling. Spending money on packing peanuts and other materials also isn’t necessary if you consider what can pull double-duty in your move: dish towels, bedding, etc. all make for great buffer material between breakable items and the best part is you won’t have to send them to a landfill after unpacking.

Make An Inventory – Two Weeks Out: Will you need to rent a moving truck? Put it on the list. Got a friend who will let you borrow their truck — and maybe help lift those heavy items? Call to ask for their help early. Thinking about what pieces of furniture and which boxes will go in each room? Write it down now and label boxes you’ve already begun to pack.

Take It One Day at a Time – One Week Out: Who wants to spend the entire weekend before their move packing up the entire house or apartment? Nix the evening commitments and spend an hour or two each evening the week before your planned move-in date packing up one room at a time.

Those are my tips for making your next move as painless as possible. Got your own tips? Share them in the comments below – I can’t wait to read them!

What do I do with old electronics?

Renee Hillman on November 17, 2014

My printer, my photo frame, and several small electronic items have been piling up. More so because I didn’t know what to do with them and knew I couldn’t just put them in the trash can. You all know I love rules!!! I guess after passing the pile in the garage multiple times along with my early spring cleaning bug, I FINALLY got motivated to figure out what the heck I should do with all of these things. It was like navigating thru a maze. And I realized several of you are probably wondering the same thing, so will help you out & save you some time on the research!

If you are in the City of Raleigh you can schedule on certain days a free of charge pick up but there has to be a TV or computer involved and no more than 4 items. (Check out this page for pick up dates, scheduling & instructions.)

This method didn’t work for me so kept persevering on to rid myself of this mounting pile, which led me to these facilities that will recycle your old electronic items. This requires me traveling to these facilities but again it is FREE. Any Wake County resident may make use of these facilities:
SWS Yard Waste Recycling Center
900 N. New Hope Road Mon-Sat
7am-3pm only No TVs over 36″
Raleigh Public Works Administrative Office
400 W. Peace Street Mon-Fri
7am-4pm only No TVs over 36″
North Wake Multi-Material Recycling Facility
9029 Deponie Drive, Raleigh, NC 27614 Open Mon-Sat
8am-4pm only Large screen
TVs accepted
South Wake Multi-Material Recycling Facility
6130 Old Smithfield Road, Apex, NC 27502 Open Mon-Sat
7am-4pm Large screen
TVs accepted

If you are feeling especially lazy in Raleigh you can schedule a Special Load Pick Up for a minimum fee of $50.

If you are an Apex resident, you can drop off at Public Works facility located at 105 Upchurch Street between the hours of 7:30am – 4:30pm, Monday through Friday. But they do not take TV’s so head to the South Wake Landfill.

If you are a Cary resident, you can call to schedule a pickup of a computer for FREE, for other items there is a small charge. You can also go to Citizen’s Convenience Center located at 313 N. Dixon Ave. for no charge to drop off. Check out this page for more information.

If you are in Fuquay, the Electronic Recycling Convenience Center located at 820 S. Main Street behind the Fuquay-Varina Community Center and South Park is open for business. Citizens can dispose of televisions, computers, monitors, scanners, printers and other electronic waste for free.

Electronic waste curbside pick-up service is available for a $10 fee. Make the request and pay for the fee at the Finance Office located at 401 Old Honeycutt Road. Finance office hours on Mon.-Fri. 8 am – 5 pm

If you are a Holly Springs, Morrisville, or a Wake Forest resident, best I can find is go to one of the landfill facilities that recycles electronics.

If you specifically want to get rid of old mobile devices/cell phones, Verizon Wireless has a program that helps the environment by providing a safe way to dispose of unwanted electronic devices – and they even accept non-working devices and the parts will be recycled and used to generate funds for non-profit domestic violence advocacy and prevention agencies. Additionally, there is an incentive to receive a gift card with each donation. A great explanation of the program can be found here: http://www.verizonwireless.com/landingpages/device-trade-in/.

Hope that helps you navigate the maze of recycling your electronics! I am off to the Raleigh Public Works and taking back my garage!

Have a great week & as always if I can help you with anything real estate related give me a call!

What do you do with used cooking oil and grease?!

Renee Hillman on November 1, 2014

As we are getting into the holiday season of turkey fryers I thought this would be relevant!

Well I asked myself this same question after needing to dispose of 15 gallons of peanut oil!!! We fry turkeys every once in a while for NC State tailgates and family gatherings over the holidays.

Easiest option: City of Raleigh has a curbside collection service during November 1st thru January 15th. There are certain guidelines you do have to follow but MOST importantly you have to call to schedule a pick up!!! The number is 919-996-6890. I missed this one little detail thus making my life a bit more difficult and you guessed it I missed this collection window.

So on to the next option (and useful information to have for other items too!)…Wake County has two multi-material recycling facilities. One is located in Apex off HWY 55 just after 540 at 6130 Old Smithfield Road, the other is in North Raleigh off of Durant Rd by Falls River subdivision at 9037 Deponie Drive. There is also one Convenience Center that accepts cooking oil that is the one located at 5051 Wendell Blvd./Business 64, Wendell. For a full list of what you can dispose and/or recycle at these sites check out this handy dandy brochure from Wake County.

I always enjoy trying/finding new things to do in the area so here I am lugging 15 gallons of peanut oil in my trunk down to Apex. I backed up into this bay after following signs to get there & you literally dump the oil into a vat. Kind of gross and an interesting learning experience.

All in all the research took longer than trying to dispose of the cooking oil correctly. Hope this helps make your life just a bit easier!

Taxes, House Buying & Benefits from a CPA

Renee Hillman on November 1, 2014

Given it is that dreaded time of year for many of us I figured I would ask my CPA to “break down” the ins & outs of the closing statement and general information on tax advantages of home ownership!

Tim Eisel has been my CPA for several years & has worked with several of my clients. Feel free to contact him if you are looking to hire a CPA to prepare your taxes. He is a family man & a local business which I love supporting. His contact info is timeiselcpa@hotmail.com and direct 919 614 3213.

Here is what Tim had to say:

Tax benefits of home ownership

The American dream of owning a home has several benefits. A few significant federal tax benefits that may prove to be beneficial are listed below:

Home Mortgage Interest

One of the most important tax benefits of owning a home is the home mortgage interest deduction. Mortgage interest that is paid by the homeowner may be deductible. If you itemize deductions on your federal income tax return, you can generally deduct the interest that you pay on debt resulting from a loan used to buy, build, or improve your home, provided that the loan is secured by your home. Currently, interest paid on up to $1 million in mortgage debt may qualify for the interest deduction. If your mortgage loan exceeds $1 million, some of the interest that you pay on the loan may not be deductible.
Home Equity Loan Interest

The interest that you pay on a qualifying home equity loan or line of credit is generally deductible regardless of how you use the loan proceeds. Interest on home equity loans of less than $100,000 may be deductible as an itemized deduction on your federal tax return.

Mortgage insurance

For 2012, qualified mortgage insurance premiums may be deductible, provided that the insurance is associated with home acquisition debt, and is being paid on an insurance contract issued after 2006. Home-owning families who itemize their deductions on their federal return and have not exceeded the income limits can qualify for the deduction.

Real Estate Taxes

If you itemize deductions on your federal tax return, real estate taxes that you have paid on your property are generally deductible.

Closing Costs/Settlement Fees

Whether you obtain a loan to purchase a home, or refinance an existing loan on your home, you’ll probably be charged closing costs. Closing costs may include points (also referred to as origination fees), appraisal fees, prepaid interest/taxes, legal fees, title search fees, and document preparation / processing fees. These costs are normally listed out in detail on the Good Faith Estimate. Some of these costs are deductible on your federal tax return if you itemize, and others may be added to the cost basis of your home.

Points, prepaid interest, and prepaid taxes may be eligible for deduction on your federal tax return in the year that you pay them if you itemize deductions and meet certain other requirements.

Other settlement fees/closing costs are generally not deductible on your tax return. Instead, you may adjust your tax basis in your home to reflect certain closing costs, such as: abstract fees, recording fees, legal fees, owner’s title insurance, and transfer or stamp taxes, to name a few.
Home Improvements and Repairs

Home improvements and repairs are generally nondeductible. However, improvements may be used to increase the tax basis of your home. Improvements add value to your home, prolong its life, or adapt it to a new use. A repair simply keeps your home in good operating condition. Regular repairs and maintenance are not considered improvements and are not included in the tax basis of your home.

Energy Tax Credit

If you make certain improvements to your home that improves your home’s energy efficiency, you may be eligible for a federal income tax credit.

Capital Gain Exclusion On Sale of Home

If you sell your principal residence at a gain, and meet all the requirements, you may be able to exclude some or all of the capital gain (up to $500,000 if you are married and file a joint return) from federal income tax. In general this exclusion can be used only once every two years. To qualify for the exclusion, you must have owned and used the home as your principal residence for a total of two out of the five years before the sale. If you sell your principal residence at a loss, you generally can’t deduct the loss on your tax return.

This information is intended to provide generalized guidance that is appropriate in certain situations. It is not intended or written to be used, and it cannot be used by the recipient, for the purpose of avoiding federal tax penalties that may be imposed on any taxpayer. The contents of this information should not be acted upon without specific professional guidance.

Have a great week & as always if I can help you with anything real estate related give me a call!

Carbon Monoxide…The “Silent Killer”

Renee Hillman on November 1, 2014

Carbon Monoxide gas is a colorless, odorless, tasteless & highly toxic. Why am I telling you this? It is the silent killer and could be an issue in your home.

Got your attention now? Well good.

I want to tell a story about a great family I worked with several years ago maybe around 2004 that had two small children. The parents had not been feeling great, the kids weren’t either and had been to the doctors a few times but no one could seem to figure out the reason why they weren’t feeling well. Their symptoms would come and go. The parents were frustrated and kept scratching their heads. During all of this we had listed their home for sale, put it under contract & it was then time for the buyers inspections. During the home inspection the inspector found high readings of carbon monoxide enough where I was called immediately. I of course called the sellers after, they were shocked, but a light bulb also went off as to why their entire family wasn’t feeling 100%, I didn’t learn until this point that they hadn’t been feeling well and they relayed the story above. They had a cracked heat exchanger on their gas furnace whether that was the cause or something else I am not sure. Heating systems make up the largest percentage of deaths from CO poisoning. Even during the recent storm Sandy, carbon monoxide deaths surged because of the use of generators as noted in a USA Today article!

The most common symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning may resemble other types of poisonings and infections, including symptoms such as headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, fatigue, and a feeling of weakness. Affected families often believe they are victims of food poisoning. Infants may be irritable and feed poorly. Neurological signs include confusion, disorientation, visual disturbance, syncope and seizures. -J R Soc Med (The Royal Society of Medicine)

Many people (I was one of them) operate gas appliances (furnace, stove, gas logs etc.) without the proper equipment in their homes. A quick fix is simply a carbon monoxide detector that you can purchase at your local hardware or box store for ~$25. Here is full page of options on Amazon! In this area, code didn’t start requiring these until around 2011 (a lot depends on when the permit was pulled for construction). These work like a fire alarm, if high levels of CO are detected they emit an ear piercing, wake you up out of a sound sleep alarm! There are hard wired varieties, plug in with battery backups & wall amounted ones. Here is the photo of the style I use, pretty inconspicuous and I don’t even notice it really!
This article is a great Q&A on residential homes & additions from the NC Department of Insurance.

Here is detail on the State statue when it comes to Residential Rental Properties:

N.C. Gen Stat. § 143-138 – North Carolina State Building Code
N.C. Gen Stat. § 42-42 to 42-44 – Landlord and Tenant Articles – Residential Rental Agreements

Authorizes adoption of provisions requiring the installation of either battery-operated or electrical carbon monoxide detectors in every dwelling unit having a fossil-fuel burning heater or appliance, fireplace, or an attached garage.Requires landlords to provide one operable carbon monoxide detector per rental unit per level. A landlord that installs one carbon monoxide detector per rental unit per level shall be deemed to be in compliance with standards under this subdivision covering the location and number of detectors. The landlord shall replace or repair the carbon monoxide detectors within 15 days of receipt of notification if the landlord is notified of needed replacement or repairs in writing by the tenant. The landlord shall ensure that a carbon monoxide detector is operable and in good repair at the beginning of each tenancy. Unless the landlord and the tenant have a written agreement to the contrary, the landlord shall place new batteries in a battery-operated carbon monoxide detector at the beginning of a tenancy, and the tenant shall replace the batteries as needed during the tenancy. Failure of the tenant to replace the batteries as needed shall not be considered as negligence on the part of the tenant or the landlord. This subdivision applies only to dwelling units having a fossil-fuel burning heater or appliance, fireplace, or an attached garage. Provides for penalties.