Category: Real Life Tips

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Finding your dream home is often described as an emotional rollercoaster, and for good reason. From the initial excitement of discovering ‘the one’ to the nail-biting anxiety of waiting to see if your offer is accepted, the journey to homeownership is packed with twists and turns.

Buying a home is an emotional roller coaster
Putting an offer on a house can produce nail-biting anxiety

Picture this: you’ve spent weeks scouring listings, touring homes, and imagining your future in each space. Then, it happens – you walk into a property and instantly feel that spark of excitement. This could be it. This could be home. The rush of adrenaline kicks in as you envision family dinners in the kitchen or lazy Sunday afternoons in the backyard.

But as quickly as the excitement arrives, so does the anxiety. You’ve submitted your offer, but now the waiting game begins. Every ping of your phone sends your heart racing – could it be the news you’ve been waiting for? The days feel like an eternity as you anxiously hope for that call saying your offer has been accepted.

And then, the moment of truth arrives. You’ve won! The feeling of accomplishment washes over you as you realize that soon, this house will be yours. But amidst the celebrations, a new wave of panic creeps in. Did you offer too much? Why did they choose you over other buyers? The doubts and second-guessing start to cloud your mind.

But eventually, acceptance settles in. You remind yourself of all the reasons why this house spoke to you in the first place. You trust in the process and in your decision. And as you prepare for closing day, you feel a sense of calm knowing that soon, you’ll be unlocking the door to your new home.

At Properties on the Potomac, we understand the highs and lows of this process, and we’re here to guide you through every step of the way. Give us a call at 703-624-8333 today. From finding the perfect property to navigating the closing process, let us help turn your homeownership dreams into reality.

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To Stage or Not?

A professional stager at work.
Sometimes decluttering is all a home needs to show its best.

Home staging has become a huge trend in the real estate industry. An online search for “home stagers in my area” will result in myriad professional home stagers. With the prevalence of home staging on TV and in real estate photos, you may think that home staging is inevitable for your potential house sale. Sellers have been trained to believe that they live in a hovel and cannot sell their property without thorough staging. That is most likely not the case.

While it is true that many buyers are not financially prepared to make major improvements to a property in order for it to be listed for top value, your house might just need some continuity, decluttering, or maybe even a coat of paint.

Before embarking on selling prep, contact us. We are professional real estate experts and have seen and sold everything from minimalist showplaces to near-hoarding situations. We work with many buyers and “see” properties through their eyes. We know what they see and how they react to certain spaces and items.

When we meet to review your plans, we will see your property and take a “reading” of it. If necessary, we will develop a plan that is efficient and effective for your specific property. While we do not charge for our staging service, we require a signed Listing Agreement before we proceed. Our goal is to give you our best advice whether rearranging furniture, bringing in some staging materials, recommending removal of some items, or repainting certain areas. Your finances are always key in our recommendations.  

If you have lived in your property for a long time, we will discuss possible “updating” or curating certain items to present the best possible property image to appeal to the broadest range of qualified buyers. Our goal is to not spend your money and unless the circumstances are extreme, we would never suggest emptying your home and renting staging furnishings.

If you are a collector, we might recommend packing up some of your collection(s). If you have beautiful antiques that are fragile, we will discuss safeguarding them. If you have amazing art, it might be beneficial to take some down to prevent distractions from the buyers’ purpose of selecting your house.

What should you do with family portraits? That is a very personal matter. One or two might be fine. Walls of children’s school photos might be overwhelming. We look at every space and consider the overall impression the property makes to a buyer in the first 30 seconds. We offer our advice based on the Malcolm Gladwell principal presented in his book, Blink.

We start from the street and work our way to the closets with our recommendations.

Small touches like fresh flowers and greenery can make a house more warm and inviting.
Extreme minimalism can be off-putting.

In the end, everything has value. Doing nothing (should anything be needed) will generally yield a lower selling price. Excessive minimalism could be off-putting and not generate an offer quickly, thus possibly selling for less. We work with our sellers to develop a good balance of reselling a home to buyers in search of a home.

Before you take matters into your own hands, call Properties on the Potomac at 703-624-8333 to discuss your goals and needs. Together, we will develop the plan that best suits you and captures the best buyers. Schedule your appointment with us today!

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Renting a storage unit can be a convenient solution when you need extra space for your belongings. However, there are some traps that renters often fall into when choosing and using a storage facility. Being aware of these pitfalls can help you avoid hassles and unexpected costs. Here are some common storage unit traps to watch out for:

Trap #1: Not Understanding the Contract Terms
Before signing a rental agreement, carefully read through all the terms and conditions. Look out for things like administration fees, insurance requirements, late payment penalties, and restrictions on what you can store. Clarify anything you don’t understand to avoid surprises down the line.

Trap #2: Not Doing the Math
Before contracting for a storage unit(s), look at what you plan to store. If you will be moving, will you want the things you plan to store? Cull out unneeded items and save money on the size of the unit you choose. That could mean several hundreds or even thousands of dollars in the long run.

Trap#3: Underestimating or Overestimating Space Needs
Cramming a unit too full will make it hard to access your belongings. This can lead to damage and waste. Overestimating will lead to overpaying for unused space. Discuss with the storage company your space and items that you plan to store.

Trap #4: Poor Unit Condition
When viewing units, inspect them thoroughly for any signs of moisture, pests, or structural issues that could damage your goods. Check that locks, lighting, ventilation, and security provisions are adequate. Don’t settle for a substandard unit.

Trap #5: Overlooking Climate Control
If you’re storing valuables, paperwork, furniture, or anything that could get ruined by extreme temperatures and humidity, opting for a climate-controlled unit can prevent damage. Weigh the extra cost against potential losses.

Trap #6: Cheap but Inaccessible
Sometimes the most affordable units are in inconvenient locations or have very limited access hours. Consider the hassle of getting to your stuff when needed. For frequently accessed storage, closer and more accessible may be worth paying a bit more.

Trap #7: Lack of Proper Insurance
Most storage companies require you to have your own insurance to cover anything stored in their units. From the outset, look into getting the right coverage amount and type of policy to adequately protect your belongings.

By doing your homework and being aware of these common traps, you can steer clear of headaches and make sure your storage unit experience is a smooth, secure, and cost-effective one.

Are you planning to sell your house and thinking of renting a storage unit to offload excess belongings? Before putting in more work and expense than might be needed, contact Properties on the Potomac at 703-624-8333 now to discuss your staging needs.

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By Krasi Henkel

Area rugs can be customized to fit the shape and size of a room
Inset carpet creates a clean line
Rugs can add warmth to cold tile floors

When it comes to creating a warm, inviting atmosphere in your home, few decor elements can make as significant an impact as a beautiful rug. Whether you’re looking to add a touch of luxury to your living room, define spaces in an open-concept layout, or simply inject some personality into your bedrooms, the right rug can work wonders. In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of incorporating beautiful rugs into your home decor.

1. Define and Anchor Spaces
In open-concept living areas, rugs can be used to define separate spaces and create distinct zones for different activities. By placing a rug under your dining table or in your living room seating area, you can visually anchor the space and create a sense of intimacy without the need for physical barriers.

2. Add Warmth and Comfort
Hardwood and tile floors can be cold and uninviting, especially during the cooler months. Adding a plush, cozy rug can instantly make a room feel more welcoming and comfortable. Not only do rugs provide a soft surface for your feet, but they also help to insulate the room, making it feel warmer and more inviting.

3. Inject Color and Pattern
Rugs offer an excellent opportunity to introduce color, pattern, and texture into your home decor. If you have a neutral color scheme, a boldly patterned rug can add visual interest and become a focal point in the room. Alternatively, if your space already features vibrant colors, a rug in a complementary hue can help to tie the look together.

4. Protect Your Floors
In high-traffic areas of your home such as entryways and living rooms, rugs can help to protect your floors from wear and tear. A durable, well-made rug can withstand the daily use and abuse of family life, while also catching dirt and debris before it can be tracked throughout your home.

5. Showcase Your Personal Style
Rugs come in an endless array of styles, colors, and materials, making it easy to find one that reflects your personal taste and complements your home’s overall aesthetic. Whether you prefer a traditional Persian rug, a modern geometric design, or a bohemian-inspired kilim, there’s a rug out there that will perfectly express your unique style.

Handmade carpets are very durable and cleanable for use in the kitchen
Persian rugs are made of fine wool and/or silk and bring drama and elegance, yet a durable for every day wear

Incorporating beautiful rugs into your home decor is a simple yet effective way to elevate your space and create a warm, inviting atmosphere. From defining spaces and adding comfort to injecting color and showcasing your personal style, the benefits of rugs are numerous. Planning to put your house on the market but are not sure what to do with your rugs? Call Properties on the Potomac at 703-624-8333 and let’s make a plan to include your rugs in your “staging” prep.

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by Krasi Henkel

Before
After

Hardwood floors are timeless. Case in point: this room with the same flooring, 57 years apart!

As a small child, I lived in a European city, in an apartment with parquet floors covered by Persian carpets. You can imagine my surprise when I first saw the dirt floors in my great-grandparents’ farmhouse. I thought that it was primitive that a house would have earthen floors, although they were perfectly even and spotless!

Floors always catch my attention. Over my lengthy real estate career, I have witnessed flooring fads appear and become obsolete. One style seems to persist: hardwood floors. 

In the 1980s, hardwoods emerged for formal living spaces, with tile in foyers, kitchens, and baths. The late 1990s and 2000s brought a laminate vogue, but laminates sounded hollow and were water-prone. Today, we have luxury vinyl planks (LVP) resembling wood grain minus the hollow feel of the laminates.

Most of my clients seem to prefer hardwood floors. Why? Hardwood floors provide adaptability. They are a neutral canvas that invites rugs, furnishings, and varied décor. Even if refinished every 10-15 years, quality hardwoods can last 50+ years.

In contrast, carpets don’t stand the test of time. After 20 years, I replaced wall-to-wall carpeting in my last bedroom. I found the padding had deteriorated to dust. On the surface, the carpet looked perfect. Padding deterioration is one reason that carpets are blamed for allergens and irritants.

Hardwood floors offer flexibility and diversity. Nicks and scrapes can be repaired and colors can be altered. Planks can be replaced or inserted for remodeling and with proper refinishing, will look untouched. Historic residences display pine or oak floors after centuries. Unlike trends that become outdated, hardwood endures.

A herringbone parquet pattern is always in style

Considered the “little black dress” of flooring, classic hardwood floors are the base elevating your unique style. As evening gowns over proper foundations, your walls, furniture, and accents will draw the gaze — not your “basics.” 

In selecting floors for a new build, remember that typically only two to three feet of floors remain visible after furniture and rugs. You can save thousands by making smart selections in favor of a classic floor and guard against the impulse for exotic woods, patterns, or unique plank widths. What about scuffs, heels, and pets? Those show that people live and enjoy there. Patina.

One question often arises: whether finished-in-place or pre-finished floors are preferable. That depends. Today’s pre-finished floors offer extensive protective coating making them very durable with pets and children. The smooth elegance of finished-in-place floors is hard to pass up, but again, only small sections are visible. That is a personal choice with minimal cost difference.

The bottom line: staying with classic hardwood flooring will save money and prevent future refuse (in the form of old, out-of-style carpet.) With a look toward the future, keeping your hardwood floors while modernizing the decor above them will save you thousands.

In the market for a home with classic hardwood flooring? Give Properties on the Potomac a call at 703-624-8333 to help you find your perfect flooring canvas!

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Properties on the Potomac has had MANY successful (and happy!) clients

Properties on the Potomac has helped countless clients buy and sell homes. Over the years, we’ve noticed some common traits and habits that the most successful homebuyers and sellers exhibit. If you want to set yourself up for real estate success, here are 6 traits our clients share:

  1. They know their numbers. Successful buyer clients understand their finances. They know their credit scores, debt-to-income ratios, and how much they can comfortably afford. Successful selling clients understand the market and follow our pricing advice.
  2. They are realistic about timing. Our successful clients realize that buying or selling a home takes time. They start the process well in advance of when they need to move.
  3. They know what they want. Successful clients have clear “must haves” and “would like to haves” prioritized for their home search. Our selling clients have clear goals for their sale.
  4. They declutter and clean. For sellers, our most successful clients thoroughly declutter and clean their home before listing. They follow our recommendations for “facelifts” to optimize their returns. This helps showcase the property and helps buyers envision living there.
  5. They trust their agent. Successful clients lean on their agent’s expertise. They understand we’re looking out for their best interests through every step.
  6. They stay calm through challenges. Even if issues arise, successful clients take problems in stride. They stay focused on their goals.

If you cultivate these habits and mindsets, you’ll be well on your way to real estate success. Give Properties on the Potomac a call at 703-624-8333 to help make your real estate dreams a reality. With over 100 years of combined experience in the DC area, we bring our clients nothing but the best!

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By Krasi Henkel

February is often seen as a downtime for gardeners in many parts of the country. While your landscape may still be dormant, there are still important tasks that need to be completed before spring arrives. Here are 5 things every gardener should be doing this month:

1. Prune Trees, Shrubs and Vines

Late winter is the best time to prune many trees, shrubs, and vines. Pruning not only maintains the desired size and shape, but it also removes dead or damaged branches which can invite disease and pests. Focus first on spring-flowering plants like forsythia, lilacs, and flowering quince. Those that bloom later in the season can be pruned a bit later.

February blooms
Early blooms
Be sure to prune ornamental trees

2. Get a Jump on Weed Control

Weeds will begin germinating as soon as temperatures begin to rise. Get a head start on curtailing them by applying pre-emergent herbicide early in the month. This will help prevent many annual and perennial weeds from taking over flower and vegetable beds once spring growth resumes.

3. Test and Amend Your Garden Soil

Now is the perfect time to get your soil tested through your local extension office or purchase an at-home testing kit. Testing will tell you the pH of your soil, as well as macronutrient levels and recommendations for amendments to correct any deficiencies. Preparing your soil now means your plants will thrive once planted.

4. Sow Cool Weather Crops

Toward the end of February, you can start certain hardy vegetables inside for an early spring harvest. Vegetables like cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower and onions can be started indoors 6-8 weeks before your last expected frost date. Check seed packets for more specifics on starting times.

5. Plan and Prepare for Spring Planting

Finally, use February to make plans for the upcoming growing season. Order seeds, map out your vegetable garden layout, and clean and sharpen tools. Planning ahead will make you ready to hit the ground running once planting season officially begins.

Even though the garden may still be frozen, February is a pivotal month for getting set for spring. Completing winter garden maintenance and preparation now will ensure your yard and garden are primed for vigorous growth in just a couple short months.

Looking for a home with the perfect garden? Properties on the Potomac can help you find your outdoor oasis. Give us a call at 703-624-8333 now!

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By Krasi Henkel

Ranch-style homes have been a popular choice for decades thanks to their practical single-story layouts and flexible spaces. While some home buyers may overlook older ranch houses in favor of newer construction, these modest homes actually offer great opportunities. With some creativity and wise investments, you can remodel a ranch house on a budget.

The Benefits of Buying an Older Ranch:

  • Mail level primary bedroom(s)
  • Mature trees and landscaping
  • Established neighborhoods
  • Lower property taxes
  • Good value per square foot
  • Flexible floor plans
  • Hardwood floors or solid mid-century materials

The Blank Canvas:

BEFORE
AFTER

The simple shapes of ranch homes make them perfect blank canvases to incorporate modern style. Minor changes can make ranch homes feel fresh and new without blowing the budget. Consider these economical updates:

  • New paint in contemporary hues
  • Swap dated lighting for streamlined fixtures
  • Replace builder-basic kitchens and baths with IKEA systems
  • Refinish hardwood flooring hidden under outdated carpeting
  • Knock down walls to create open-concept spaces
  • Add an addition
Kitchen Before
Kitchen After
Primary Bath Before
Primary Bath After
Entry Before
Entry Construciton
Entry After

The above photos were a joint project with Anders Hurd – Faber Custom Builders, Inc. The project was incredibly successful and the property sold to the first buyer ho saw it!!

Big Style for Small Budgets

You don’t need expensive materials to give a ranch home an interior facelift. Use these design insider tips:

  • Shop for unique vintage details
  • Use bold wallpaper or paint instead of new cabinets
  • Stain concrete floors for an industrial look
  • Upgrade windows and patio doors even if you keep other structural elements

The single-level living and unused basement or attics in ranch homes present opportunities for expansion or converting unused areas into rental units for extra income.

Addition to a ranch home provides tall, open spaces with abundant views

Take a fresh look at older ranch houses. With an updated exterior paint color, strategic refreshes indoors, and your own custom vision, you can personalize a home to suit your needs and style for less than you might expect. The charm and practicality of ranch homes continue to win over buyers who see their outstanding potential.

One of my favorite ranch homes in a subdivision that I have sold many ranches and that I love to walk my dog!
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Embarking on the journey to homeownership can be a daunting task, especially for those who might need a little extra help to turn their dream into reality. The Greater Capital Area Association of Realtors (GCAAR) curated a list of financing opportunities in the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia. This guide aims to make the American dream possible for potential homebuyers by highlighting various programs designed to provide financial assistance:

Chenoa Fund (National):

   – National down payment program offering up to 5% toward down payment and/or closing costs.
  – Available for both FHA and conventional mortgages.
  – Funds come in the form of a second mortgage loan, potentially forgivable in some cases.
  – Accessible through approved lenders. (chenoafund.org)

City of Takoma Park’s Down Payment Assistance Program (Takoma Park, MD):

   – “The Home Stretch” program providing $10,000 for down-payment assistance.
  – For income-eligible, first-time homebuyers.
  – Requires completion of a homebuyer education course and a certified inspection.
  – First-come, first-served basis.
  – Website: takomaparkmd.gov

D.C. Open Doors with Down Payment Assistance (D.C.):

   – Offers deferred repayable loans for a down payment and below-market interest rates for first trust mortgages.
  – Eligible for both first-time and repeat homebuyers.
  – Down-payment assistance in the form of a deferred 0% non-amortizing loan.
  – Website: dchfa.org/homeownership/available-programs/dc-open-doors

Employer-Assisted Housing Program (EAHP) (D.C.):

   – Offers eligible District government employees a deferred, 0% interest loan and matching funds grant.
  – No income cap or cash contribution requirement.
  – Maximum purchase price of $765,600.
  – Website: dhcd.dc.gov/service/employer-assisted-housing-program-eahp

Federal Housing Administration (FHA) 3.5% Loan (National):

   – Good option for individuals with credit issues (minimum eligible credit score is 580).
  – FHA loan amount tops out at $970,800.
  – No requirement to be a first-time homebuyer.
  – Website: hud.gov/buying/loans

Federal Housing Loan Bank Down Payment Assistance (FHLB DPA) (D.C., MD, VA):

   – Down-payment assistance grant of up to $10,000 for eligible homebuyers.
  – Available in the District, Maryland, and Virginia.
  – Website: fhfa.gov

With an array of financing opportunities at your fingertips, homeownership is within reach. Take advantage of these programs and turn the key to your dream home.

Our team is dedicated to support you every step of the way. Contact Properties on the Potomac at 703-624-8333 today and explore these financing opportunities to make your dream home a reality. Our expert team is here to guide you through the process and help you find the perfect financial solution tailored to your needs.

Information is provided from the Greater Capital Area Association of REALTORS®. “Unlocking Your Dream Home: A Comprehensive Guide to Financing Opportunities.” GCAAR Housing Booklet. gcaar.com/docs/default-source/default-document-library/102623-gcaar-housing-booklet–single-pages.pdf, Accessed 01/23/2024. Please note that the information provided is deemed to be up-to-date as of the publication date but cannot be guaranteed. Real estate financing programs may undergo changes, and it is advisable to verify the latest details with relevant authorities or financial institutions.

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One of the most common issues homeowners face during winter is ice damming on roofs. Ice damming occurs when snow and ice accumulate on the roof, causing water to back up and potentially damage the interior of your home. Understanding what ice damming is and how to prevent it is crucial for preserving the integrity of your property. In this blog, we’ll delve into the details of ice damming, its causes, and effective prevention measures.

What is Ice Damming?
Ice damming is a phenomenon where ice accumulates along the edges of a roof, preventing melting snow from draining properly. The trapped water can seep into the interior of your home, causing damage to ceilings, walls, insulation, and more. The key factors contributing to ice dam formation include snow accumulation, outside temperatures, and the presence of heat sources within the home.

Causes of Ice Damming

  • Snow Accumulation: Excessive snow buildup on the roof is a primary contributor. As snow melts, the water can pool behind the dam of ice, finding its way into your home.
  • Temperature Fluctuations: If warmer periods cause snow to melt during the day, only to refreeze overnight, ice dams are more likely to form.
  • Heat Loss from the Home: Poor insulation and ventilation in the attic can lead to heat escaping from the home, warming the roof surface. This heat accelerates the melting of snow, contributing to ice damming.

How to Prevent Ice Damming

  • Insulation and Ventilation: Ensure your attic is properly insulated and ventilated to maintain a consistent temperature on the roof. Adequate insulation minimizes heat loss from the living spaces, preventing the roof from warming and promoting snowmelt.
  • Snow Removal: Safely remove accumulated snow from the roof using a roof rake or hiring a professional to clear the snow for you. Clearing the snow before it turns into ice reduces the risk of ice dam formation.
  • Sealing Gaps and Leaks: Identify and seal any gaps, cracks, or leaks in your roof. This prevents warm air from escaping and minimizes the chances of ice dams forming.
  • Professional Inspection: Schedule regular inspections with a professional roofing company to identify and address potential issues before they escalate. Professional advice and maintenance can go a long way in preserving your home.

Protecting your home from ice damming is essential for maintaining its structural integrity and preventing costly repairs. If you’re concerned about your roof’s vulnerability to ice dams or need help finding professional assistance to address the issue, Properties on the Potomac is here to help! Give us a call at 703-624-8333.