Tag: Homes

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Your garage door is more than just a functional element; it’s a prominent feature of your home’s exterior that significantly impacts curb appeal. Updating an old or damaged garage door can transform the look of your home, enhancing its overall attractiveness and value. Here are several ways to update your garage door to make a lasting impression on potential buyers and improve your home’s curb appeal.

Garage doors come in many colors, materials, and designs, from modern to traditional.
Decorative hardware and windows can enhance visual appeal.


Painting for a Fresh Look
A simple yet effective way to update your garage door is by painting it. Choose a color that complements your home’s exterior palette and architectural style. Opt for neutrals like white, gray, or black for a timeless appeal, or go bold with a vibrant hue that adds personality and makes your home stand out.

Installing a Modern Design
Consider replacing your old garage door with a more modern design. Contemporary garage doors come in various materials such as steel, aluminum, or fiberglass, offering durability, insulation, and aesthetic appeal. Choose a style that complements your home’s architecture, whether it’s sleek and minimalist or rustic and charming.

Adding Decorative Hardware
Enhance the look of your garage door by adding decorative hardware such as handles, hinges, or window inserts. These small details can mimic the style of your home’s existing features and create a cohesive look that enhances curb appeal.

Choose a garage door style that complements your home’s architectural style.
Make sure you perform regular maintenance to keep your garage door looking its best!


Incorporating Windows for Natural Light
Integrating windows into your garage door not only enhances its visual appeal but also allows natural light to enter your garage space. Choose from a variety of window styles and placements to add architectural interest and create a more welcoming facade.

Upgrading to Smart Technology
Consider upgrading your garage door opener to a smart system that offers convenience and security features. Smart garage door openers can be controlled remotely via smartphone apps, providing added peace of mind and functionality.

Maintaining Regularly
Regular maintenance is essential to keep your garage door looking and functioning its best. Clean the door regularly, lubricate moving parts, and address any dents or dings promptly to prolong its lifespan and preserve its curb appeal.

Updating your garage door is a worthwhile investment that can significantly enhance your home’s curb appeal and overall value. If you’re considering selling your home and want expert advice on updating your garage door, contact Properties on the Potomac at 703-624-8333 today.

Stay tuned for more tips and ideas in our curb appeal series!

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Repairing and replacing damaged elements around your home is essential for maintaining and enhancing its curb appeal. Addressing visible issues such as cracked walkways, broken fences, or damaged gutters not only improves the overall appearance but also demonstrates to potential buyers that your home is well-cared-for and meticulously maintained. Here’s why small repairs can make a significant difference in the attractiveness and marketability of your property.

Address Cracked Walkways
Cracked or uneven walkways not only detract from your home’s appearance but can also pose safety hazards. Repairing these issues improves accessibility and enhances the visual appeal of your front yard, creating a welcoming entrance for visitors and potential buyers.

Replace Broken Fences
A damaged or sagging fence can give the impression of neglect. Repair or replace broken boards, straighten posts, and repaint or stain the fence to improve its appearance and increase privacy and security around your property.

Fix Damaged Gutters
Damaged or clogged gutters not only affect the aesthetic of your home but can also lead to water damage and erosion. Ensure gutters are securely attached, clear of debris, and functioning properly to protect your home’s foundation and landscaping.

Small Repairs, Big Impact
Small repairs such as fixing peeling paint, replacing missing roof shingles, or repairing cracked windowpanes can significantly enhance your home’s curb appeal. These minor improvements show attention to detail and reassure potential buyers of the home’s overall quality and maintenance.

Ready to enhance your home’s curb appeal and sell your home?  Contact Properties on the Potomac at 703-624-8333 today for expert guidance and assistance in identifying and addressing any visible issues around your property. Let’s showcase your home’s best features and attract potential buyers with a well-maintained and appealing exterior. Stay tuned for more tips and ideas in our curb appeal series!

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In today’s fast-paced world, finding time to hit the gym can be challenging. This is where the concept of a home gym shines, offering unparalleled convenience and flexibility. Imagine rolling out of bed and stepping into your personal fitness haven—no commute, no waiting for equipment, just pure, uninterrupted workouts. Here are some compelling reasons to consider creating a home gym.

Transform your garage space into the perfect home gym.
A small unused room can be used for a home gym or multi purpose space.
  1. Convenience and Flexibility: One of the biggest advantages of a home gym is the ability to exercise on your own schedule. Whether you’re an early bird or a night owl, your gym is always open. This flexibility makes it easier to maintain a consistent workout routine, leading to better fitness results.
  2. Cost-Effective: While the initial setup might seem pricey, a home gym saves money in the long run. No more monthly membership fees, travel costs, or expensive fitness classes. You invest once in quality equipment and enjoy unlimited access.
  3. Privacy: For many, the gym can be an intimidating place. A home gym offers a private space where you can exercise without feeling self-conscious. You control the environment, the music, and the ambiance, creating a space that motivates and inspires you.
  4. Customization: Tailor your home gym to fit your workout style. From free weights and resistance bands to yoga mats and cardio machines, you can choose equipment that aligns with your fitness goals. This personalized setup can enhance your workout efficiency and enjoyment.
  5. Family Fitness: A home gym encourages the entire family to stay active. It’s a great way to instill healthy habits in children and spend quality time together. Everyone can find an activity they enjoy, making fitness a fun family affair.

Creating a home gym transforms your fitness journey, providing a seamless blend of convenience, privacy, and personalization. If you’re ready for a larger space to bring your home gym vision to life, call Properties on the Potomac at 703-624-8333 today. Our expert real estate team is here to help you find the perfect home to suit your needs. Let’s make your dream home gym a reality!

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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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At Properties on the Potomac, we are deeply immersed in the realms of architecture and design; we constantly seek inspiration from diverse cultural perspectives. Recently, our company embarked on a transformative journey during our board retreat in Cancun, Mexico. Surrounded by the vibrant hues of the Caribbean Sea and the rich tapestry of Mexican architecture, we found ourselves captivated by the interplay of cultural influences on architectural approaches.

Our retreat provided a unique opportunity to delve into the intricate fusion of Mexican and American architectural styles. In Mexico, architecture is not merely about structural aesthetics; it’s a narrative woven with threads of history and tradition. From the awe-inspiring Mayan ruins to the colorful facades of colonial buildings, every edifice tells a story of resilience, innovation, and cultural amalgamation. The juxtaposition of ancient indigenous designs with modernist elements showcases a seamless integration of tradition and innovation, a principle we strive to embody in our real estate endeavors.

Stunning and diverse Mexican architecture

Similarly, in the United States, architecture serves as a testament to the nation’s diversity and vitality. From the iconic skyscrapers of New York City to the sprawling suburban landscapes of California, American architecture mirrors the country’s spirit of ingenuity and ambition. The fusion of architectural styles from different eras and cultures creates a rich tapestry of urban landscapes, reflecting the ever-evolving societal values and aspirations.

Our retreat in Cancun served as a catalyst for introspection, inspiring us to infuse our real estate projects with the essence of cultural diversity and historical resonance. We are committed to crafting spaces that transcend mere functionality, embodying the soul and spirit of the communities they serve.

Join us on this journey of architectural exploration and cultural appreciation. Let us embark together on a quest to create spaces that resonate with the stories of the past and the aspirations of the future. Reach out to us at 703-624-8333 today to discover how we can assist in bringing your vision to life, whether it’s finding an existing home or building a new home.

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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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By Krasi Henkel, Broker

When asked to draw a house, the image that likely comes to mind is a rectangular box with a triangle roof (probably better than mine) — the quintessential Cape Cod style. This simple, no-frills architectural approach has captivated homebuyers for over 300 years and, due to its popularity, has been placed on millions of Monopoly boards.

The Cape Cod dates back to the early 18th century when early settlers built modest wood-frame homes along the Massachusetts coastline. With its steep roof, central chimney, symmetrical shape and lack of ornamentation, the style embodied frugal values.

Yet over the centuries, the appeal of the Cape Cod has proven surprisingly enduring. Today’s popular “farmhouse chic” aesthetic traces its roots back to these humble colonial dwellings. The modern suburban tract house owes a debt to visionary developers like Levitt & Sons, who revived the Cape Cod in the postwar period as an affordable option for families.

Today, newly built Capes routinely sell for over $1 million, representing a nearly ten-thousandfold price increase from their mid-20th century counterparts. Even modest Levitt homes regularly sell for half million dollars. It seems that this back-to-basics architecture always finds an eager audience.

Perhaps the timeless draw of the Cape Cod lies in its efficiency and practicality. With a spacious great room and oversized bedrooms, the layout perfectly suits modern family life. Its classic façade blends seamlessly into both historic and contemporary neighborhoods.

Whatever the reason, the staying power of this architectural  favorite is clear. As we enter a new year, it’s wise to remember that sometimes, simple is best. Whether buying a home or custom building a new one, the tried and true Cape Cod formula continues to deliver – frills are optional.

If you’re looking for the perfect Cape Cod in the DC Metro region, contact Properties on the Potomac at 703-624-8333 today!

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What exactly does it mean to you when your mortgage has been “sold?”

 

The sale of mortgage “paper” and/or servicing is common practice.

 

Federal law requires that the outgoing mortgage holder must send you in writing, notification of the sale and provide you with the new company’s contact information. The new company must also send you in writing their “welcome” letter and provide you with clear instructions on how and where to pay your mortgage. To learn more, visit http://www.consumerfinance.gov/askcfpb/215/what-happens-if-my-mortgage-servicer-changes-what-do-i-do.html

 

So what could possibly go wrong? Realize that many of the servicing agents are not located in the United States; data from the loan package is often manually entered into a new database; and escrow accounts can slip into an abyss. Because you, the mortgagor, are ultimately responsible for your mortgage, taxes, and insurance; you must be vigilant.

 

The subject of escrows held by a lender (or lender’s servicing company) has been tested in court and it has been determined that “when the lender holds escrow funds for property tax payments, a fiduciary duty exists.” This is a very important decision inasmuch as the lender has the obligation to you to pay all taxes and insurance (should they be collecting for that as well) in a timely manner.

 

A client recently contacted us for help sorting out the sale of their mortgage and getting their taxes paid on time. After two months of phone calls, and several emails, their property taxes were finally paid. However, the County and Town tax records now show  that late payment interest and penalty fees had been levied and received. This indication is not on the servicer’s record, it is on the homeowner’s record.

 

What’s a homeowner to do?”

 

  1. Open all lender correspondence promptly.
  2. Act on the correspondence immediately.
  3. Do not be put off by promises or delays.
  4. Keep copious notes of names, times, dates, and agreements. Record the conversations, if possible (they record theirs)
  5. Follow up, follow up, follow up.
  6. Get everything in writing.
  7. Keep all contact numbers handy.
  8. Do not hesitate to contact the investor of your loan to let them know of your problems inasmuch as the investor usually contracts the servicers.

 

If you have any questions, you can always contact us.

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If you look hard enough, you can find almost anything on the internet. When it comes to buying, selling, or renting, there are plenty of websites where you can connect directly with buyers, tenants, landlords, and homes for sale.

Why should you bother finding a real estate agent when you have Google?

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Trust

Real estate scams are a thing, particularly for rentals. The FTC provides information on their site for how to recognize a scam, and one way you can spare yourself the trouble is to find an agent you trust who will sift through the market for you. That agent will be sifting through properties listed with agents.

Properties listed with an agent, both to buy or rent, will have a number of things going for them. First, it is in the best interest of the listing agent to make sure that the landlord actually owns the property he or she is listing. Second, the listing agent also wants to get the property rented or sold, so they will do their best to make the property attractive, accessible, and well priced. Third, they will make sure the money and paperwork goes to the right people in a timely fashion.

For sellers and landlords, working with a realtor also provides the safety and comfort that someone prescreened the folk who will be trooping through your home. Your realtor will know which realtors have shown your house, and will have talked personally to any buyers or tenants without agents who want to see the place.

Besides the practical reasons to do good work, realtors have a fiduciary duty to look after the interests of their clients. accountant-accounting-adviser-advisor-159804.jpeg

Wisdom

The internet provides knowledge and very general information. But how do you apply the information, or even determine if it is reliable?

According to Zillow, “Nationwide, Zestimates are currently within 5% of the final sale price 52.9% of the time,” and “Nationally, Zestimates are currently within 20% of the final sale price 85.8% of the time.”

These percentages turn into pretty significant numbers when you’re dealing with houses. It’s easy to set a price too high, or too low, and lose a great deal of money. You could even lose the sale entirely because the price is far higher than the actual appraisal by the lender.

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Why does Zestimate have such a huge margin of error?

Zillow can’t walk into a house and get the feel for it’s actual condition and layout. What about how the light moves through the house? Or, how the light moves through the other houses in the neighborhood, or the other houses in the region that have the particular features this particular buyer is looking for?

A good realtor can help you take into account the unquantifiable factors of a home.

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Connections

Price is only one part of buying or selling a house.  Home inspectors, contractors, title companies and the like, all provide services essential to a transaction. Services that absolutely must be done well because they have far reaching ramifications. A good realtor will have good people to recommend to you.

When working with a realtor to sell a house, you’re not just relying on their knowledge to set the price and make the best repairs, you’re tapping into their network of human beings who might want to buy or know someone who might want to buy your property. And nobody networks like a realtor.

When working with a realtor to buy a house, you’re tapping into their resources and knowledge of the area, the market, and the professionals. They also have direct access to the most up to date information about the market, and are happy to spend time tracking down the best options for you. You should still do your homework on schools and crime rates, because a realtor can’t make those choices for you–but a good realtor is absolutely invaluable.

At Properties on the Potomac, we pride ourselves in our commitment to our clients. We share our knowledge and our connections with our clients. If you are thinking of buying or selling and want to find out more about how we can help you, contact us here.