F.A.T.E.

Set the stage with fine art! Today we hosted a luncheon & open house for area Realtors at a magnificent estate along the Scioto River. The homeowners have already moved, and the home now sits vacant with over 7000 sq.ft. of living space. In an effort to enhance the overall ambience of the home, we utilized the services of F.A.T.E. (Fine Art To Enhance). They brought in the work of 7 local artists and created a gallery experience for guests to enjoy. The work selected was complimentary to the home and amplified the beauty of the architecture.

F.A.T.E. provides opportunities for area businesses & homeowners to lease fine art. One piece of fine art can do more to enhance a room than an entire cluster of furnishings. For more information, contact Michelle Brandt at 614-783-4931.

The "4forU" Team is always looking for creative ways to assist our sellers. Let us know what has worked well for you!

SMELLS THAT SELL!

It is a scientific fact that smells can evoke strong emotional reactions! Surveys indicate that many of our reactions to odors are based purely on emotional associations. This is especially important information for home sellers! I have opened many doors with prospective buyers only to be turned off by the smell of dogs, cats, cooking odors or strong chemical air fresheners. Although this can be an uncomfortable discussion with sellers, it is too important to overlook.

Scent preferences are a highly personal matter connected to personal memories & associations. A universally perceived pleasant fragrance is vanilla. Following are some recipes for homemade air fresheners that might just make a difference when marketing your home!

1. To quickly get rid of odors (especially fish), simply heat some white vinegar on the stove (DON'T BOIL), and after about 30 minutes, remove it. The slight vinegar smell dissipates quickly and takes any odors with it.
2. Pour a little white vinegar on a washrag and wipe the walls down lightly with it. As soon as it's dry, the room smells clean and "sweet" without the heavy scent of perfume.
3. Mix 1/4 cup baking soda with water in a spray bottle. Shake well and spray. The baking soda absorbs the odor. You can also add some pure vanilla extract.
4. Tuck a dryer sheet under the couch or in air vents.
5. Dampen several cotton balls with pure vanilla extract and place in a dish for several hours in an odorous area of the house.
6. And don't forget to regularly open your windows and let some fresh air circulate!

Do you have a favorite trick for managing pesky odors? PLEASE SHARE!

Out With A Bang!

What a whirlwind week for The "4forU" Team! Some markets may be stalling, but there is plenty of activity in and around Columbus.

I learned some good lessons this week in the negotiation of new construction. After searching the re-sale market in Columbus suburbs, my young buyers decided to move forward with the purchase of an M/I inventory home. I think that it's important for anyone who is buying a new build in a developing community to understand all the pros and cons - and especially the importance of having a long-term commitment to that new home & community.

There are some great opportunities with builders right now, but it is more important than ever to have buyer respresentation. In an effort to secure buyers, there are special rate programs to investigate and plenty of negotiation room on base prices. Buyers need to be careful not to overspend on upgrades that serve as a smokescreen to the true price of the home.

And now a plug for me & my team... we are ALL certified new construction specialists. Don't think you are going to save money going it alone. Reputable builders do not offer discounts if you are not represented by a buyer's agent!

*** Click on the title link for a list of all July 4th festivities around Columbus!

REALTOR© CARE DAY

The second annual Realtor© Care Day took place on June 5th and was a terrific success. I worked on the Columbus Board's Committee to oversee the project and witnessed a great collaborative effort on the part of many to make the day a success. This year the CBR partnered with the Columbus Housing Partnership to enhance the Tray Lee Community Center, part of the American Addition community at Joyce & Sigsbee Roads.

The Tray Lee Community Center was raised up by Reverend Traylor and four dedicated women who wanted to provide an after school center for area children. A mural has been designed in their honor by Columbus artist, Greg Cantwell, depicting their faces and the faces of many important historical figures. It is a lasting tribute to the people whose contribution continues to enhance the lives of others.

Local area Realtors© took on projects closer to their home base. Here in Upper Arlington, Realtors© worked at the corner of Northam & Camden to assist a homeowner who was unable to care for the increasing overgrowth of bushes, weeds, etc. It was a great day to give back to the communities in which we live and work!

Bike the C-Bus

One of the perks of being a real estate agent is the opportunity to meet and network with interesting people. Recently I met Ray George, one of the coordinators for the Long Street Tour's, Bike The C-Bus. The event is scheduled for August 23, 2008 and is going to be a terrific opportunity to tour through some of the most interesting neighborhoods in Columbus. Cyclists will be spinning through King Lincoln District, Downtown, Short North Arts District, Italian Village, University District, Harrison West, Victorian Village, Arena District, Franklinton, Brewery District and German Village. It's a 30 mile ride designed in segments to make it easy for every level of participation. So... pump up the tires, fill up the water bottle, join The 4forU Team & come see the best of urban renovation!

Importance of Home Inspection

The importance of a qualified home inspector can not be underestimated. During the initial phase of a purchase contract, the buyer generally has 7 to 10 days to have the home inspected. There are many service providers to choose from, and prices may vary substantially.

Recently, I called to get price quotes for one of my buyers, and two companies based their estimates on the purchase price of the home. The other companies were interested to know the age of the home, location and square footage. These seem like more appropriate variables to consider!

It's a very good idea for the buyer and their Realtor to be present during the home inspection. This is an excellent opportunity to learn about the house, and any areas of particular concern to the inspector. These items can then be addressed during the Request to Remedy phase of negotiations.

Following is a list of some of our favorite home inspectors:

Richard Harmon, RMH & Assoc.: (w) 614-527-0320 (#1 - Angie's List)
Rod Berning, Brickkicker: (w) 614-864-9261
World Inspection Network: (w) 614-781-1070

If you know of someone good that you would like to add to this list, please submit their name and phone number. We are always looking to work with good people!

Hip Happening Harrison Park

Recently, I was introduced to Harrison Park while on a whirlwind buying mission with a young surgeon relocating to Columbus. In my opinion, this little community has it all!

Located near the Short North & Victorian Village, there were 64 single family homes built in 2006 and only four remain (my buyer bought one). Nothing short of amazing in this "down market". There are also flats and luxury lofts to choose from in this trendy urban mecca.

A private clubhouse, fitness center, pool, and a much anticipated 4-acre riverfront park are special amenities available to homeowners. The quality construction is consistent and evident throughout the development. This is one developer who doesn't seem to cut corners!

This is not "paid for" advertising... just a treat to be able to promote something really outstanding in Columbus!