Helena Talbot’s blog – Don't Overlook That Diamond In The Rough

If you're  looking for a new home, then you've probably been scouring the internet ads, driving through neighborhoods and looking at the lists of homes you've received from your realtor.   And if you're like many people, you won't even consider something that's not move in ready. 

However, there are many homes on the market that are diamonds in the rough.  These are homes that are priced below market value and only need some minor cosmetic touches to make them a gem.    Here are a few things to look for that may indicate you've found a diamond in the rough.  Homes that could be easily turned into a gem and ones that will substantially increase the value of the home for very little money.

1.  Look at the walls of the home.  Will a few sheetrock repairs and a coat of paint fix all that ugliness?  Could you have that old wallpaper removed?  Removing old dated wallpaper can make a home feel updated almost instantly and for very little money.

2.  Check the flooring.  Does the home have old mauve shag carpet, etc?  If so, ask for a carpet allowance and have some new flooring installed.  This is another quick fix that can update a home very quickly and easily.

3.  How about the windows?  Are the windows dirty or do they have some old outdated window coverings on them?  The windows can be cleaned and the window coverings can be replaced with new fresh crisp coverings.  These quick fixes will update and enhance your new home and instantly increase its value.

4.  How's the landscaping?  Is it full of weeds, dead shrubs and old dried out flowers?  The landscaping is something that can be updated with little money or effort.  Buy some weed and feed, some new shrubs and flowers or whatever suits your taste and style and you've just updated your landscaping.  Additionally, if you buy permanent, low maintenance plants and shrubs, you may never have to think about your landscaping again.  Just a little monthly maintenance and that's it!

5.  What about the kitchens and bathrooms?  Do they look a little dated?  It's very easy to change the paint color, add some new light fixtures and some new sinks that will give those rooms an easy update.  Additionally, new appliances are another thing that doesn't cost that much but will give your kitchen a great upgrade and one that you'll use and enjoy every day.

Talk to your realtor about those diamond in the rough homes.  Due to his knowledge of the neighborhood and experience with similar homes, he will be able to supply you with a list of homes that will fit your criteria and could be easily updated with little money and effort.  

I specialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in Loudoun County and Northern Virginia.

I have over 25 years experience in the real estate industry.  As a Broker/Owner with Exit Realty Talbot and Company, I bring special tools and solutions that enable me to exceed the expectations of my clientele.  If you are considering listing your property in Loudoun County or the nearby areas, ask me about our latest internet marketing systems.  I would appreciate the opportunity to earn your business.  

I am experienced in listing and selling short sales.  For information on the short sale process, please visit  www.LoudounShortSaleSolutions.com.

For a free market analysis on the value of your home, please visit http://www.LoudounHomeValues.com

My past awards and designations include – 2003 President of the Dulles Association of Realtors, 2003 Dulles Area Assoc Realtor of the Year, Salesperson of the year 2000 Dulles Area Assoc of Realtors,  Top Producer awards from both the Dulles Area Association and the Northern Virginia Association of Realtors.  I am a member of the Top 5 in Real Estate Network.

I have lived in Loudoun County since 1979.  I am married with two grown children and two grandchildren.  My son in law is my business partner in real estate.  I love to jog in the mornings and spend time relaxing on my Trawler during the summer months.

Loudoun County and Northern Virginia Real Estate Sales and Solutions – Helena Talbot, Broker. I specialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in the Northern Virginia area to include Loudoun County and surrounding areas including Fairfax, Clarke, Fauquier, Prince William  Counties.  Our local neighborhoods includeLeesburg, Ashburn, Sterling, Potomac Falls, Brambleton, Broadlands, Lansdowne, River Creek, Belmont Country Club, Beacon Hill, Shenstone, Waterford, Lovettsville, Purcellville, Hamilton, Round Hill and Bluemont.                        Cell 703.727.9885    Office 703.574.3800

Free iPhone/Android Mobile App to search Northern Virginia real estate.  2 easy ways to get the App:  Text “Exit9” to 87778 or enter http://87778.mobi/Exit9 into your browser.