When Packing a Storage Unit, Strategy Is King

By Paige Tepping

RISMEDIA, Thursday, January 12, 2017— Whether you're in the process of downsizing or simply looking to open up your home a bit (without saying goodbye to your belongings for good), self-storage units offer a practical solution to the issue surrounding lack of space homeowners are faced with on a day-to-day basis.   While factors such as security, cleanliness, temperature control, customer service and price will likely play a large role in determining which self-storage unit best fits your needs, the process doesn't end there. In fact, much like packing to move from one house to another, maximizing the space within your self-storage unit begins with having a plan in place.   1. Be Prepared. Once you've made the decision to rent a storage unit, even if it's a short-term solution, it's important to come up with a plan before you begin haphazardly shoving items into the space. While this may save time on the front end, it will undoubtedly work against you when it comes time to clear the unit out.   2. Use the Space Wisely. If you're storing bigger items—or anything that's awkwardly shaped—take the time to break them down (if possible) in order to get the most use out of the space. This means disassembling tables, workout equipment, kitchen carts, etc.   3. Take Inventory. Good memory or not, you're bound to forget every last item stored in the unit. Even if it only makes an appearance once every few years, you'll want to remember where your fine china from Great Aunt Gertrude is when she comes calling.    4. Label Everything. If you plan to fill your storage unit up with boxes, be sure to label them so that you can quickly and easily identify what's inside. It's also important to make sure all labels are facing the same way.   5. Map It Out. In addition to making note of everything that's stored in your storage unit, it's a good idea to map out where everything is located. This way you can easily grab something when needed.    6. Place Items Strategically. Keeping like items together (or packing things according to which room or family member they belong to) is a simple way to add a level of organization to the process.   7. Leave a Walkway. For those renting a large self-storage unit, don't forget to leave a walkway down the middle when filling the space with your belongings. Not only will this make it easy to grab things when you need them, it will keep you from having to climb over boxes and other items when you need to grab something from the back of the unit.   Article shared by: Beverly Stermer, REALTOR® Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc.  16 Gosnell Crossing STE 102 Staunton, VA 24401 Cell: 540-294-3145 Office: 540-997-3300 As always, I am happy to assist you with your real estate needs and am never too busy for your referrals! Article by: Paige Tepping RISMedia's managing editor. This was originally published on RISMedia’s blog, Housecall.

Sales in the Snow: 5 Home Staging Tips for Wintertime

While winter isn't traditionally considered the best time to sell your home, there's no reason you can't get an offer during the colder months with the right staging. In fact, a study found that homes sold faster and for more money in the winter months, even in cold cities like Chicago. Here are five winter home staging tips that can increase your appeal to potential buyers. 

1. Clear the Walkways

Whether you live in an area with heavy snow all winter or you've had a big storm on a day with several showings scheduled, all areas of the yard should be accessible for buyers. That means not only making sure there's a safe, snow-free path to the front door, but also that paths are cleared to any outdoor areas the buyer will want to view. This means sheds, patios, garages and recreation areas. And while entries can get grimy if your family is in and out with their boots on, this area should be kept spotless and clear of debris.

2. Let There Be Light

Although our instinct in winter is to hunker down indoors, put your home in its best light by opening all shades and draperies, as well as turning on all available light sources (including closet lights). The exception? Turn off televisions and computers, which don't necessarily add to the warm glow you're trying to achieve.

3. Keep It Toasty

Speaking of a warm glow, your home should project a feeling of warmth to potential buyers when it's cold outside. If you have a fireplace that's in good condition, that's a great place to start. Try setting your thermostat a degree or two higher than usual to give buyers a reason to linger instead of heading back out into the weather.

4. Embrace the Holidays

While REALTORS® usually advise packing away personal belongings when staging a home to create a clean canvas for buyers, tasteful holiday decorations can help create the warm, family feel you're trying to achieve. Think lush wreaths, a tree with inviting white lights and candles in the windows for subtle yet powerful emotional appeal.

5. Don't Ignore the Outdoors

Although your landscaping won't look as gorgeous as it does in the spring, pots of evergreens can help add some color to your walkways and yard. Always make sure that gutters are cleaned and shrubs are trimmed, too.

Beverly Stermer REALTOR®

Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc. 

16 Gosnell Crossing STE 102

Staunton, VA 24401

Cell: 540-294-3145

Office: 540-997-3300

As always, I am never too busy for your referrals!  

Article by Dixie Somers RISMEDIA, Wednesday, January 04, 2017. This was originally published on RISMedia’s blog, Housecall.