What Do Buyers Want?

When I first meet with buyers in our area to determine what they want in a house, they often specify features such as hardwood floors, natural woodwork and a fireplace--sometimes before listing more practical considerations such as number of bedrooms, baths and garage space. And I've often seen buyers willing to sacrifice a third bedroom, or an extra bath, when they fall in love with a house full of character and charm. But sellers should remember that superb overall condition is most important: in our current buyer's market, a charming but ramshackle house is no competition for a home in tip-top shape.

What our neighborhood buyers want, then, is most easily described as "Old World charm." Sellers should keep this in mind when making decorating and remodeling decisions before going on the market. Three examples:

    * Always opt to have floors sanded rather than carpeted (probably the most important advice I can give).
    * Don't be afraid of rich, old-fashioned colors for your walls
    * Replacement windows, if needed, should never be vinyl. Pay the extrsa for real wood, which can be stained or painted to match the home's woodwork.

This traditional approach to decorating and remodeling our older houses can be safely ignored in the kitchen and bathroom, where most buyers love to see the latest developments in fixtures and materials. Many sellers will rely on a Realtor for advice about improvements to be made before going on the market--but it's important to check with a real estate professional before making any major change, even if you plan to stay in your home for years.