When you put your home up for sale, you want it to look its best to potential
buyers. That’s why you clean, tidy and de-clutter every room.
Some sellers, however, miss the backyard. You need to pay just as much
attention to that space as you do to the interior of your home. The backyard
is as important a living space as the family room. To some buyers, even
more.
Buyers want to see an attractive backyard space, with the grass cut and the
hedges trimmed. The more neat and tidy you can make it, the better. Be
sure to sweep walkways and wipe down patio furniture.
Also, watch out for the following things that buyers do not want to see:
• Bags of garage and other waste.
• Doggie do-do. (Be sure to stoop and scoop!)
• Rakes and other tools piled in the corner.
• Cluttered and disorganized storage sheds, pool huts and other
backyard structures.
• Weeds in the flower beds.
• Items stored underneath the deck.
• Hoses not stowed neatly.
• Electrical outlets and water faucets that don’t work.
These are not difficult issues to fix. Doing so will positively impact the
impression the buyer gets of your backyard.
Do you have a backyard that shows particularly well in the summer? Here’s
a tip: Take pictures. Those photos will help buyers be able to appreciate
how it looks should you list your home in the winter.
Want more tips on making your home show well so that it sells fast? Call
today.

If you see a haze of condensation on your window, should you be
concerned? Maybe. Maybe not. It depends on a number of factors.
First of all, an occasional build-up of condensation is normal and often the
result of fluctuating humidity in the home. Usually, it’s nothing to worry
about. If you’re using a humidifier, try adjusting the levels. If the humidity is
being generated naturally, try placing a dehumidifier nearby. Also, remove
any plants and firewood from the area, as they can release a surprising
volume of moisture into the air.
Do you see moisture in between the panes of glass that make up the
window? If so, that means the seal has failed and moisture has crept in.
Double and triple pane windows often contain a gas (argon, for example)
that boosts the insulating qualities of the window. When the seal fails, the
gas disappears, making the glass colder and often allowing condensation to
creep in. Eventually, you’ll want to get it replaced.
If you see moisture build-up anywhere on the frame of the window,
particularly at the joints, that could be a sign of water leaking through. That’s
an issue you should get checked out immediately by a window contractor.