A Home is More than the Numbers by Gordon MacGeachy Have you ever thought about what really goes into your decision-making process when you are out looking for a new home? Sure, its all about the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, views and, of course, location -- but how often have you walked into a home that just didn’t feel good and turned around and walked right back out? Probably more often than you think… Most people need to see at least 10-20 homes before they are ready to make a commitment to buy. When they find "the one", it wasn’t because someone told them: it was the right place it’s because it felt good to them. It’s an innate feeling and the rest of it all just falls into place. Sure, sometimes the deals don’t come together, but once you have found the right home you just know. Step back for a moment and think about what it was about that property that gave you that "just right" feeling. It may have been the view, it may even have been the location, but more often than not it was because it felt like home -- your home -- and you could just move right in, hang clothes in the closet, and get on with your life. What most people forget, buyers and sellers alike, is that we all want to take the easy way out. When a home feels and looks good we are immediately at ease and in our comfort zone. We have all heard how important it is to put money into kitchens and bathrooms, and yes, these are very important areas of a home, but the rest of the house has to feel the same way. More importantly you can still make your home feel and look great, even if you don’t want to make a major investment into your kitchen and bathrooms. Invest in your furnishings and the things that surround you: it will pay you back over and over. The best part is… and most people forget this… you take it all with you when you leave. Ever wonder why that great house just didn’t feel the same after the closing? We all buy lifestyle, and that’s what we are doing when we buy and sell homes. The next time you are out looking at homes -- or considering selling the one you have -- make sure the investment you make is one that people can see and feel, other than in the property itself. It will make your purchase an easier one, and definitely make your home sale more profitable. Gordon can be found at Hilton & Hyland realtors in Beverly Hills.
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gmacgeachy@hiltonhyland.com