How HGTV Is Like Meth For Homebuyers

Yesterday, Preston Scott asked me how much HGTV has impacted the real estate market.

Well, believe it or not, it has had a huge impact on homebuyers, and typically not in a good way.

Like an addict wanting a quick fix, some buyers are not making sound decisions.

Listen To Full Podcast Here

Listen to "Tallahassee Real Estate Market 01/15/18" on Spreaker.

Real Estate Value

Today's buyer is less connected to what historically is considered "real value" than any buyer I have seen in nearly 30 years of selling homes in Tallahassee.

What I mean by this is there are buyers coming in and buying homes that have absolutely gorgeous kitchens and knock-out master bathrooms, but the land beneath these homes will not hold the long-term value like some of the more established neighborhoods in town.

The "wow factor" of the glitz and the glamour that they see on the renovation shows is moving them to make unwise purchases. They are buying the modifications, appliances, and "lipstick," but ignoring the real long-term tenants of value.

Much like a meth addict, they are totally focused on the quick high (the now!), and they are not even considering the long-term financial impact of their purchase decisions.

Here's the question nobody has bothered to ask them: "When your kitchen is 10 years old and your master bathroom is no longer modern, how will your home stack-up against the larger homes closer to town on a quarter to half an acre of land? Which homes do you think future buyers will want to buy (and update)?

Kitchens do not appreciate, they depreciate (lose value). Bathrooms do not appreciate, they depreciate. Flooring and paint depreciate too. But do you know what appreciates?

Your location, if chosen wisely, will appreciate more rapidly then all the rest of the home that is depreciating. Why? Because the best locations are sold first and for highest dollar. Focus on the dirt first, then allow yourself to indulge.

What Will Future Buyers Want?

The future resale potential of a home might not be the most important piece of your home purchase decision, but shouldn't it be included? Do you really want to buy a disposable home?

One of the greatest benefits of homeownership is the long-term accumulation of equity, so a prudent buyer adds this element to the mix when selecting a home for sale.

When the floor coverings and appliances are dated, what do you have left? You have land.

Whether you are buying used or buying a newly built home, consider the land and the location before even allowing yourself to be tempted by the finishing touches inside. When it comes time to sell, you'll be glad you did!

If you plan on buying a home within the next two years, start your preparation early and you'll end up not only loving your new home, but you will also put yourself in a position to have a home that will benefit you financially. To get started early, simply give us a call at (850) 366-8917 or drop us a note and we'll schedule a time to help you on your way.

Joe Wrote The Book On How To Sell A Home Today

WARNING: The Internet & digital marketing systems have changed the way sellers need to market a home for sale. It's not about getting a home sold anymore, it's about getting a home sold and netting the most money from the sale.

To do this, a seller needs to hit the digital market hard in a coordinated effort that alerts ready-buyers (all at the same time) to ensure buyers understand they are competing for the right to buy the home.

While it only takes ONE buyer to sell a home, it takes MULTIPLE BUYERS for the seller to bid the property up to its highest value in today's market. You see our full explanation about how to sell a house here, or you can buy the book and really get into the nuts and bolts of selling a home in the digital age.

Get the book that explains it all, in a manner that is understanding to all, even technology neophytes. It's available on Amazon, a trusted source for consumers.