If the thought of spring cleaning your Minneapolis condo doesn’t bring a smile to your face, you’re not alone. To help you (and me) get going now, I’ve come up with this short list of the 6 essential, in my opinion, spring cleaning chores:
1.Store winter clothes: It’s time to pack away your winter clothes. Coats, sweaters, and your heavy winter clothing need to be inspected, cleaned if needed and packed away. Don’t skip the step of cleaning, or, when you get your clothes out of storage next fall, you might find that they’ve been damaged beyond repair by insects or set in stains. Where should you store your clothes? Somewhere clean, cool, dark and dry.
2.Wash window treatments: Spring is the perfect time to inspect and clean the window treatments in your Minneapolis condo or loft. Clean window treatments brighten any room. Wash blinds, launder curtains that are machine washable and send drapes to the dry cleaners. While you’re at it, dust the window casing, wash window sills, and clean any window hardware. You’ll be surprised at the huge amount of dirt and grime that a thorough window cleaning removes.
3.Clean carpets and upholstery: Deep clean fabrics that have absorbed a winter’s worth of dust and germs. Shampoo your carpets; clean cloth furniture. Open windows to speed the drying process, which can take a day or more.
4.Wash woodwork, walls, baseboards and cabinets: Even if your Minneapolis home’s walls don’t look like they need cleaning, they do. Just enough dust clings to vertical surfaces to warrant a seasonal bath. Using a sponge and hand dishwashing detergent, wash the surface in sections to make sure you don’t miss a spot.
5.Clean light and ceiling fixtures: To clean your light fixtures, remove the light bulb and fixture if possible. Wash glass fixtures in soap and water. If the fixture cannot be removed from the ceiling, use a damp cloth to wipe it off. Dry the fixtures. Wipe the light bulbs with a rag. The easiest way to clean your ceiling fans is to use a vacuum with a soft nozzle attachment.
6.Check your coils: Caked on dust can cause your refrigerator to overheat, so take the time to clean the condenser coil. It’s usually found behind the toe grille. Clean it with a long-handled bottle brush and a vacuum cleaner with an attachment hose. If the condenser coil is on the back of your refrigerator, carefully pull the fridge out several feet and vacuum thoroughly.
Put on your favorite music and start your spring cleaning. It’ll be done before you know it. Then you can relax and enjoy your sparkling clean Minneapolis condo.
Spring is also a great time to shop for a new Minneapolis real estate. Contact me at 612.877.1676 or email me at ben@cityoflofts.com for further real estate discussion.
With the current economy, it may seem like a better idea to rent a Minneapolis condo instead of buying one. Let’s explore some of reasons why it’s still better to buy rather than rent.
Throwing Money Away
When you rent that’s basically what you’re doing. You give your money away in exchange for a ‘perishable’ item—one month of living space. Once that month is over, the money is gone and you didn’t get anything of long term value in return.
When you buy a Minneapolis condo you still spend money for a month of living space, but in addition, you’re building long term equity. It may take longer and property may not increase in value as quickly as it did in the past, at least for now, but the money you spend becomes a back end asset instead of just disappearing.
Tax Breaks
When you buy a home, you can deduct the interest and property taxes that you pay every year on your income taxes. That can be a sizeable amount of money. If you buy your first home in 2009, you get an even bigger tax break of $8,000 as a result of President Obama’s stimulus plan.
Saving Money
Yes, you actually end up saving money in the long run if you buy a home rather than rent. According to The New York Times, over a 16-year period you can save as much as $5,000.00 by owning your own home. And, that number doesn’t include the $8,000 tax credit first-time home buyers get when they purchase a principle residence in 2009.
The bottom line is that the housing market troubles have nothing to do with the ‘evils’ of homeownership. They have to do with bad lending practices, and people wanting more than they can afford.
Choose your Minneapolis condo or loft wisely, only buy what you can afford to pay for each month, and pay attention to the loan you are being offered. If you need any advice on the best types of loans or condos available, I’d like to help. Call me today at 612-877-1676 or email me at ben@cityoflofts.com.
Have you heard of the first-time homebuyer’s tax credit extension? Last month, President Obama signed the extension to help first-time homebuyers (who didn’t get their sales in by November 30th) buy a loft or condo that meets their needs. What about those who already own Minneapolis condos, are doing well and want a larger Minneapolis condo?
To those who already own a Minneapolis loft or condo, Merry Christmas! The Workers, Homeownership and Business Assistance Act of 2009 didn’t just come with an extension; it came with improvements. Those in governmental positions of authority reasoned that if someone wanted to get a bigger Minneapolis urban home, they should get some kind of help too, thus further helping the overall real estate market.
If you own a Minneapolis urban home, you can now receive up to $6,500 in tax credits for buying one of the Minneapolis homes for sale. The actual wording is “$6,500 or 10%.” Here are a few of the important points you need to know:
•Income Qualifications – Your modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) as a single taxpayer must be less than $125,000 ($225,000 if you file jointly). Partial credit may be received by those with a MAGI of less than $145,000 (single) and $245,000 (jointly).
•Home Ownership Qualifications – You must have lived in the home you own for five consecutive years out of the past eight to qualify. You do not, however, have to currently own the home you’re using to qualify. The key terms are “five consecutive years” and “in the past eight years.” If you lived in your home for five years straight, but sold it two years ago, you are still eligible for the tax credit. If you’re filing jointly with a spouse, both you and the spouse have to qualify.
•Cost Qualifications – The cost of the home doesn’t have to be more than the home you already own, but it does have to cost less than $800,000. As a side note, the government has put a definitive cap on the housing costs. If the home you’re looking at is a solid, non-negotiable $801,000, it isn’t eligible for the credit.
•Purchase Date – The final date for the purchases to be secured is April 30, 2010. The actual closing date must be finalized before June 30, 2010.
Most couples move into a home thinking they will “eventually” get a bigger urban home once they have a family. Then the family comes along, the house is full and they can’t buy a larger home due to financial issues. The tax credit is a perfect opportunity for families to find Minneapolis urban homes that fit their expansion needs. Take a chance and look around; your dream urban home may be only a city block and $6,500 away!
If you’re looking to expand and take advantage of the tax credit, I can help. Call me at 612.877.1676 or email me at ben@cityoflofts.com for more information.
Yes, it’s time for the Holidays again, which means it’s time to decorate your Minneapolis loft. If you’re big on recycling, use eco-friendly products and try to keep your carbon footprint on a low scale, you may be trying to figure out how you can make your Holidays a blast without stepping away from your ideals.
Here are a few tips to help you get your Minneapolis loft decorated in eco-friendly style!
Tips for an Eco-Friendly Holiday:
1.Instead of buying wrapping paper, buy decorative wooden boxes, tin boxes, cloth bags or other eco-friendly packaging to hold your presents. You can get any of these with Holiday themes, most won’t get thrown away for years and, when they finally do fall apart, they’re biodegradable.
2.If you do use wrapping paper, save the paper and reuse it next year: recycling at its best!
3.Buy a real tree instead of a fake one and find an organization to plant one in its place. Once Christmas is over, you can have the Christmas tree recycledinto wood chips, mulch and other wood products.
4.Try buying your gifts from an eco-friendly store. Online or offline, these businesses offer gifts made from recycled, reused or all natural materials.
5.Create fantastic holiday decorations with reusable materials from around the condo. There are tons of decoration ideas around the Net, so you’ll be able to find some ideas that use things you already have lying around.
6.Send an e-card instead of a regular Holiday card, or buy Holiday cards made from recycled materials.
7.If you want lights, use LEDs (low-energy lights). Not only do they use less power, but also if one light goes out, the rest stay lit.
With a little bit of thought and ingenuity, your Minneapolis loft can be as bright and cheerful as you’ve always wanted without worrying about the impact on the environment. Have a Happy (and eco-friendly) Holiday!
If you’re looking for a condo or loft in the urban Minneapolis area to hang your eco-friendly wreaths in, I can help. Call me at 612.877.1676 or email me at ben@cityoflofts.com for more information.
If you have some Minneapolis real estate to sell or you just want to raise the property value, keeping hip to the market trends is paramount. Kitchens are one of the biggest selling points of any residential property. Energy efficient and cost effective are the catchwords of the day, and recycled is the way to go. Here are a few of the newest eco-friendly kitchen products that can find you buyers and up your property value.
1.EverHot – Made by Water, Inc, the EverHot is an excellent addition to trendy kitchens. No more boiling water, which makes it energy efficient and timesaving, EverHot is an under counter instant hot water heater. It uses less electricity than a 40-watt bulb, but produces up to 60 cups of steaming water an hour.
2.Whirlpool GS5VHAXWA – A refrigerator of amazing proportions, the Whirlpool is considered the most energy efficient of its type. All sleek metal and beautiful lines, this Whirlpool model does everything other fridges do (including providing purified water and making ice) on less than 550 kilowatts a year. Besides being energy efficient, it has the benefit of Whirlpools long history of excellent customer care.
3.Bosch Dishwashers – Energy Star rated and highly rated by Consumer Reports on a regular basis, Bosch dishwashers are the cleaning appliances to have in your Minneapolis condo. Critics rave about how quiet they are, and the company is the only manufacturer that uses EcoSense technology. Push a button and the dishwasher is preprogrammed for optimum time, energy and water efficiency. You can’t get better than that.
When you’re planning to sell or renovate your Minneapolis loft or condo, catch up with the trends, first. Remember – green is the way to go!
If you’re trying to get your real estate ready to sell, I can help. Call me at 612.877.1676 or email me at ben@cityoflofts.com for more information.
If you’re looking at Minneapolis lofts or condos to rent but think you can’t afford them, you might want to take another look. This is especially true if you have a good credit history. When it comes to finding tenants, landlords have never been more willing to play “Let’s Make a Deal.”
Sitting Pretty
Why would any landlord be willing to make a deal? The reason topping the list is, of course, the economy. With so many people having lost their jobs, finding tenants who can afford the rent on time isn’t easy. Second, many renters are trying to save money by having roommates. Thirdly, because of the marketing slump there are plenty of homeowners renting out their Minneapolis lofts or condos rather than selling them. Lastly, because of the first-time buyer tax credit, many potential renters are becoming homeowners instead.
All of these points add up to a high amount of vacancies, which put landlords in a pickle and have renters sitting pretty.
Taking Steps
Many landlords are trying everything they can to keep their rentals occupied to help pay for the maintenance on their loft. The steps they’ve taken include such things as:
•Start with a good credit rating. If you have a history of paying on time, you have a chance at negotiation.
•Pay attention to the average rent in the area. If the rents on the Minneapolis lofts or condos you’re looking at are higher than average, you have a point to negotiate.
•Look at one-bedroom lofts or condos first, if they will work. Many two- and three- bedroom lofts or are taken by individuals sharing rent and families. There may be a surplus of one-bedroom houses, so you might have a better chance of snagging one of them.
If you’re looking for an affordable place to rent or buy, I can help. Call me at 612.877.1676 or email me at ben@cityoflofts.com for more information
Are you looking for something to do around your Minneapolis loft this weekend that will also help the environment? Why not do a quick green renovation at loft. Incorporating green products and practices in your loft save our natural resources and are better for your health. Here are a few simple projects you can work on this weekend.
1. Floors. You can easily replace the floor in a room during a weekend. Bamboo and cork floors are excellent environmentally-friendly choices because they are renewable sources. They come in a variety of colors and styles so you can find something that will match your current décor.
2. Paint. Painting a room is a quick and easy way to change its look. However, traditional paint is loaded with toxic fumes that can aggravate respiratory conditions like asthma. When you paint your next room, choose a paint that contains less or no amounts of dangerous chemicals. Your room will look just as good, and your lungs will be happier.
3. Windows. If you still have older, single pane windows in your Minneapolis loft, it’s time to replace them with double pane energy efficient windows. These newer windows will lower your energy consumption by keeping your loft warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. Additionally, you may be eligible for a Federal Tax Credit for Energy Efficiency of up to $1500 if you purchase Energy Star windows in 2009 or 2010.
4. Insulation. A well insulated condo saves you money and cuts back on the amount of energy you use. Make sure you have adequate insulation in your attic. Check your doors and windows for cracks and leaks that allow air to escape. Seal them with caulk or weather stripping. The Federal Tax Credit for Energy Efficiency applies to Energy Star insulation as well.
Are you looking for a green Minneapolis loft? I specialize in green lofts and condos and would be happy to help you find the one that fits your budget and needs. Call me today at 612-877-1676 or email me at ben@cityoflofts.com.
Preparing to buy Minneapolis lofts for sale can cause much excitement. But before you start daydreaming about all the possibilities, you need to concentrate on ways to save for a down payment.
♣ First, pay off debt
One of the best ways to save for a condo is to get out of debt first. From credit cards to personal loans, if you’re still sending more of your money out of the condo than you’re keeping in, you need to make a point to significantly cut debt.
♣ Get an extra job
Although not glamorous, another job will put money in your pocket to help you buy Minneapolis lofts for sale. Just make sure when you see the fruit of your labor, you set it aside as a down payment for your new loft.
♣ Hold a garage sale
Got clothes you’re not wearing? What about that CD player you never use? Holding a garage sale is an excellent way to quickly rake in cash. Some people make hundreds of dollars!
♣ Seek professional help
Even though putting 20% down is ideal, there are many available plans to assist you in coming up with a down payment. Depending on your situation, your down payment could be significantly less. Talk with your real estate agent or a trusted mortgage provider to get professional advice.
♣ Get a promotion
While this may seem like an odd way to save for a down payment, it’s very practical. Have you helped save your company a lot of money? Did you work especially hard on a big project? Don’t let all your talents go to waste. It can’t hurt you to simply ask for a raise.
♣ Use your tax refund
Instead of buying a new television or washer and dryer set, use your tax refund toward a down payment on your loft.
With a bit of effort and focus, before you know it, you’ll have your down payment and be on your way to owning your own loft.
If you’re thinking of buying, now’s the time to start working with a professional real estate agent. I can recommend a mortgage provider who will help you get the financing that best fits your needs. I can also help you find Minneapolis lofts for sale that fit your budget and criteria. Give me a call today at 612-877-1676 or email me at ben@cityoflofts.com.
Selling a loft requires preparation. While there are many things to consider, one of the first things you should do is to ensure that your loft makes a great first impression. That’s why it’s important to de-clutter in an effort to prepare your Minneapolis loft or condo for sale.
1. Start with the kitchen
Potential buyers will open drawers and cabinets. So, be sure to de-clutter your pantry, cupboards and drawers. Throw away trash and unsightly items. Organize things such as pots, dishes and utensils for a fresh, tidy appearance.
2. Organize your closet
We’ve all been there. You have company coming over and the quickest way to clean up is to throw everything in a closet. While this may be okay if you’re having a visit from friends, it’s not okay if you’re preparing your Minneapolis loft for sale. Buyers want to see everything, so don’t forget to organize your closet. Make sure all clothes are folded neatly or on hangers, and if you have carpet, make sure to vacuum. If your closet is stuffed, remove clothing you rarely wear and either give it away, sell it or neatly store it.
3. Make bathrooms shine
Nothing’s worse than a dirty bathroom. This is an extreme turn off for buyers. You want your property to have the look of a model loft. This means clearing off countertops and removing personal items, in addition to cleaning showers, bathtubs, toilets, floors and mirrors.
4. Remember the Common Areas
Curb appeal is the first thing buyers see when they visit your property. If buyers view a driveway filled with kid’s toys, unsightly lawn furniture and an un-kept lawn, they may turn away without bothering to go in. Remind your HOA to keep these areas clean and in good shape and make sure they know your unit is being marketed for sale.
These small changes can give the appearance of a well-maintained, clutter-free loft. If you want your property to stand out from the competition, follow these easy steps to prepare your Minneapolis loft for sale.
Thinking of selling your loft? I specialize in selling lofts in this area fast and for the most money. Give me a call today at 612-877-1676 or email me at ben@cityoflofts.com.
Whew—you’re finished! You’ve signed all the forms and the race is won, you think. Okay, go ahead and sigh that huge gasp of relief that your Minneapolis loft or condo is finally yours. That’s enough. Now, get yourself up and realize the heavy work is about to start. Oh yeah, you have to move all that stuff you’ve managed to accumulate over the past however many years you’ve been alive. Stuff doesn’t ever die; it just continues to follow you around. So, how do you get it to your new loft?
Send out invitations: You would do it for any other big event in your life. Send out invitations to your family and friends and invite them to help you on your big day. Make it sound like fun by promising a picnic on your new rooftop patio either the day of the move or soon after. It doesn’t have to be a big complicated affair. Order some take out sushi from Origami or pizza from Black Sheep Pizza and have plenty of cold beverages for sweaty tired helpers. Make it a real event that everyone can enjoy while laughing about the day’s adventures.
Store it: If you’re like most people, you have plenty of things you rarely use but can’t bear to get rid of. Take advantage of the fact that you’ll be packing all your things and put those items you never use into boxes and tote them to a storage unit. You get to keep them, at least for now, but they won’t be cluttering up your brand new Minneapolis condo. In six months, if you haven’t missed the items, take the boxes (without opening them) to your favorite donation location.
Safeguard your pets: Moving day is hectic and can be frightening for your pets. Board your cats or dogs at your veterinarian for the day. It will be worth the expense to make sure they don’t escape through doors propped open for moving.
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