Even with recent gains in the market, the concept of homeownership is still under attack. Owners feel let down by falling values, critics say the American Dream has become a nightmare, and others say renting is the best option right now. There is no doubt that many have suffered at the hands of bad lending practices and economic turmoil associated with the recession.

However…owning a home has Always been a huge part of the American Dream, and will continue to be so long after the current economic crisis and wave of defaults has passed. Our homes are a place of security for our families and for establishing traditions with our friends.

[%readmore%]No one can argue against the benefits that homeownership provides to our communities and to society in general. Homeowners have a higher level of self-esteem, education, and involvement in civic activities. Why try to tear down these fundamental truths simply because we are in a downward part of the always dynamic cycle of real estate?

The time has come to reaffirm the dream of homeownership, but in a more sober and accountable fashion. We should emphasize responsible ownership for the long term, which helps us and our communities achieve the common goals of financial and social well-being. Today’s naysayers will change their tune when the cycle rises again and you can count on that.

1305 Boon St #218, Sumas 98295 | MLS 667829 | $139,000

Newer condo complex in heart of Sumas! Second floor one level unit features 1630 SqFt of living space and a great floor plan with 4 spacious bedrooms. Spacious closets and ample storage make this a great first home or an excellent investment property. The outdoor patio is attached to the kitchen, and has a locked storage space as well. This condo is well cared for, neat, and clean!

Before you begin what should be the fun process of buying a home, consider a couple finer points to help save you money, both upfront and down the road. One issue relates to your credit score and its impact on your financing, and other relates to the condition of your home and the cost of repairs.

First, know your credit score in advance of house hunting, and take immediate steps to improve it if it’s less than good. During your loan application is not the time to find any surprises.

[%readmore%]Correct any errors on your credit report, pay down some revolving debt, and don’t make any other major purchases (like a car) until your loan paperwork is complete and you’ve closed on your home. This is important because barrowers with lower scores pay higher fees and interest rates, which can total tens of thousands of dollars over the life of the loan.

Once you’re in the position of having made an offer to purchase, do not skimp on inspections. No matter how strapped for cash you think you are, the cost of the inspections is a drop in the bucket compared to what unexpected plumbing, electrical and structural repairs will cost you in the future. Your agent will go over a list of available inspections and suggest the most appropriate ones of your property.

You know what? Size does matter! You want buyers to soak up every square foot of your home, visualizing how their belongings will fit in. Follow these recommendations to maximize the space they perceive, particularly if you are selling a smaller home.

[%readmore%]Furniture makes the most direct impact on the living space, so scale down the size of your furnishings, or even better, remove a few large pieces and rearrange what remains. Large furnishings can make a room feel cramped, so open it up.

Avoid busy fabric patterns, which can also make a room “feel” smaller. Use texture in fabrics to add interest, and if necessary, buy slipcovers for patterned chairs or sofas that you love or can’t remove.

After furniture, the next biggest impact is your walls. Since dark colors absorb light and make even large rooms look smaller, invest in some light paint (think creams, light blues or greens, soft yellows) to open your room’s space.

Another great “trick” is to simply hang some mirrors. Mirrors do double duty in expanding the space. Seeing a reflection of the rooms gives the impression of more space in “another” room, while mirrors also reflect light, and brighter room feels like a bigger room.

These are simple suggestions to implement, and a real estate professional will have even more advice for creating an appealing interior.

While experts may debate the value of holding an open house, your home may be a good candidate for this marketing tool. If your agent offers to show off your home on a Saturday or Sunday afternoon, apply some elbow grease and take advantage of the opportunity!

Obviously, get things tidy inside and out. Give all of your countertops a spacious feel by hiding your toiletries under the sink in the bathroom, and by stashing your kitchen appliances in the cabinets. Clean and clear make a great impression.

[%readmore%]Also, remove photographs, appointment cards, school artwork, etc. from the refrigerator and other areas of the house. Yes, it’s your home, but you want buyers to picture it as their home, so don’t intrude on the fantasy!

You can encourage buyers to linger by simply putting out refreshments, like fresh baked cookies (the aroma can be a powerful intoxicant!), and a pitcher of iced tea or mini bottled water- anything to make them pause and take a closer look around.

The one thing that shouldn’t be in the home during an open house is ….you. No offense meant, but buyers are there to see the home, not the owner, and they may feel uncomfortable asking probing questions if you are within earshot. Make your visitors feel at ease, and trust your agent to take care of the rest.

9669 Crest Dr. Blaine WA | MLS 651008 | $ 319,900

Completely redone with high end finishes in desirable neighborhood. Over 3200′ finished with a 194′ workshop in the basement. Open floor plan with granite counters, two fireplaces, designer bathroom fixtures, walk-in shower as well as jetted tub in the master, all new windows and doors. Over 17,000′ newly landscaped lot with views of the Blaine Harbor. Decks have been redone with Trex Decking.