Author: Elaine Hilton

Before You Put Your Home on The Market

/ Elaine Hilton

Thinking about selling your home?  Here a 5 things to do before the for sale sign goes in the front yard.

1.  Be proactive and get a pre-inspection.  The home inspector will be able to  spot areas that stand out to potential buyers as problems.  With a pre-inspection, you will be able to make repairs or understand your need to, before the home is on the market.

2.  Organize and clean.  Get rid of the clutter, pack up your least used items, clothes you are not wearing, toys, and family portraits.  Store items off site or in boxes that are neatly stacked in the garage.  Clean, clean and clean.  Windows, carpets, walls and light fixtures. A fresh coat of paint can work magic.

3.  Maximize your curb appeal.  Drive by your own house.  What do you see?  Does your lawn and landscaping look  cared for and tidy?  Could you use some bright flowers or plants to frame the entrance?  Is your front door clean and the entry welcoming?

4.  Find your warranties.   Get all your manuals, warranties and guarantees for the furnace, appliances and any other items that will remain with the house.  Putting them in a basket in the kitchen will give your potential buyer peace of mind.

5.  Get replacement estimates.  Do you have big ticket items that are worn out?  An unusual color of carpet?  Get estimates for  these items, even if you don’t plan on replacing them. The figures will help buyers determine if they can afford the home, and will be handy when negotiations begin.

 

What Makes a Great Neighborhood?

/ Elaine Hilton

There are good neighborhoods and there are great neighborhoods in the eyes of potential buyers.  But there are common traits that buyers look for in a neighborhood and one is a high Walk Score.

1.  Walk Score

Walk Score measures the walkability of any address using a patented system. For each address, Walk Score analyzes hundreds of walking routes to nearby amenities.

Walk Score also measures pedestrian friendliness by analyzing population density and road metrics such as block length and intersection density.

Walk Score® Description
90–100 Walker’s Paradise
Daily errands do not require a car.
70–89 Very Walkable
Most errands can be accomplished on foot.
50–69 Somewhat Walkable
Some errands can be accomplished on foot.
25–49 Car-Dependent
Most errands require a car.
0–24 Car-Dependent
Almost all errands require a car.

If you would like to check out a neighborhood walk score, see  Crime, Walk Scores, and Schools.

The Spar Tavern in Old Town

/ Elaine Hilton

o6CThe Old Tacoma saloon opened in 1884 on this site.  The building was torn down and replaced in 1917 by the David Building. The first tenants were the Radonich Brother’s, who operated a men’s clothing store, a billiard parlor and a soft drink establishment and in 1920 a restaurant called The Spar.  In 1933, at the end of prohibition, alcohol replaced soft drinks for the workers of Old Town. The Radonich Brothers decided to remain a tavern and serve only beer and wine.  Today, The Spar is a landmark in Old Town and still serves up beer, wine, and now coffee!

Old Town’s Knights of Pythias Temple

/ Elaine Hilton

o62Now known as Carr’s Hall, this venerable building was built in 1880 as the Knights of Pythias Temple.  An interesting group of tenants followed including the Bethel Mission, Presbyterian Sunday School, Star Grocery and Anton Bush’s Grocery Store.  In 1983 it was completely remodeled and opened as Grazie’s Restaurant.  Today it is home to the Connelly Law Office.

Too Many Saloons in Old Town

/ Elaine Hilton

o75The Murphy Building was built in 1888 by Michael Murphy for $6000.00.  After completion of the building, Mr Murphy applied to the City Council for a saloon license for “The Murphy”.  The license was not granted.  The citizens of Old Town  said “there was one saloon to every twenty five voters already!”  The building had many other uses over the years including a barbershop, union hall for longshoremen and business offices.

What Does It Really Mean To Be “Represented” By A REALTOR®?

/ Elaine Hilton

1.) Being Understood

Being Understood By Your Realtor or Real Estate AgentBeing “represented” by a REALTOR® means that you have an advocate who is putting themselves in your shoes. They will listen intently to you. They want as much information about your situation as possible so that they can best help you. They will do everything they can to earn your respect so that you will use them again in the future. Understanding our clients needs and wants is essential for success in this business.

We work hard to understand you and your needs. Each of my home buying and selling clients are different. Some may want to list their house for sale and need advice on staging and adding upgrades to get the best value. Others may be relocating due to military orders and need to find a house in the next 7 days. Everyone’s situation is different. They all require special attention to make sure that their needs are met and their expectations are exceeded. If your REALTOR® truly understands you and your situation, you are in good hands! Continue reading →