Seller Tip: Give the buyers what they want

You know you have to stage your home. But what can you do to make sure your home is standing out from all the others? Tip #3 is to read up on the hot trends in the current housing market, and see what you can do to make your home look up-to-date.

The biggest theme for trends in 2009 is “multi-tasked rooms” – Americans of all ages want their homes to match their schedules. We are moving away from old-fashioned single-purpose rooms that are only used occasionally—like living rooms and dining rooms—and opting instead for rooms that do double or triple duty. You will find in new homes this year many more living rooms that double as entertainment centers, home offices, or even guest rooms. That home office is one of the most attractive features, because so many more homeowners are telecommuting, or taking their work home.

Even backyards are expected to do double duty There is a big emphasis being placed on “outdoor rooms” – decorative tiny balconies are definitely out; instead, homeowners are looking for a porch or a full deck, with space for a couple of chairs and even a table to host a dinner or small party. Most backyards have carefully-thought-out patio spaces to accommodate both social space and landscaping.

Another big theme, at least in new homes: upstairs laundry rooms! Most new homes have moved the laundry room upstairs, and out of the basement. And in existing homes, some folks are converting a closet into an upstairs laundry.

There is a new emphasis being placed on smart, convenient choices. Little touches, like a water faucet over the stove for filling up heavy pasta pots, make a big difference.

Buyers are also looking out for “senior-friendly” homes, either for taking in their parents or for their own retirement. Buyers want to be in their new home longer. Make sure your house can guarantee that with things like a first floor bathroom and bedroom, flat doorknobs, and wheelchair accessible entryways.

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