AW Realty Group

Fresh paint on the walls, professional staging and an asking price that ends in 999 — when you're selling your home, you'll do whatever you can to help it stand out and sell faster. Because the  National Association of Realtors is predicting modest growth  for the 2017 real estate market, as a seller you want every edge you can get. And on the heels of the popular Consumer Electronics Show in January, perhaps that edge is a smarter home. "Smart home features are designed to make homes more convenient, appealing, secure and energy-efficient — all of which are bonuses when you're trying to sell a house," says Geoff Lewis, president of  RE/MAX, LLC . "Sellers who want to move their homes faster may benefit from adding smart features that make their properties more appealing to tech-minded buyers." According to IHS Markit and CNBC, 80 million smart home devices were delivered worldwide last year. That's a 64 percent increase from 2015. Here are si...

Whether you have an upcoming open house or are simply trying to freshen up your home, try these suggestions for getting rid of odors from seven commonly smelly items. 1. Trash cans After rinsing out a stinky garbage can with soap and water, stash a few scented laundry dryer sheets at the bottom to absorb odor. 2. Freezers An old (clean) sock stuffed with coffee grounds can absorb the musty smell in your freezer. Coffee socks can also help de-mustify stale closets. Tie one to a hanger. 3. Litter Box Extremely porous activated charcoal is a big-time odor absorber. Pet stores sell versions made especially for pet odors. Keep it near the litter box. 4. Carpet When your carpet smells icky, try sprinkling baking soda. Let it sit for half an hour, then vacuum it up. 5. Dishwasher Who wants to use a dishwasher that never smells quite clean? Pour white vinegar into a dishwasher safe cup and stick it in the top rack. Run the machine through its cycle. Though your kitchen will s...

While house hunting TV shows tour the neighborhood, close the deal and throw a housewarming party in 30 minutes, real life is not as streamlined. If you're in the process of buying a home, here are signs it's time to call a realtor. 1. You believe everything on the internet While you can view tons of listings online, not all of the information is accurate or up-to-date. You'll see outdated comps, conflicting forecasts and different ratings. With access to the MLS and insight on properties about to hit the market, a Realtor will make sure you're considering  all  of the homes in your market that fit your criteria. 2. You're juggling a hectic schedule You don't need to spend time sorting through listings and contacting sellers. An agent will do the browsing so you only visit the homes that best fit your needs and price range. 3. The biggest thing you've negotiated lately was your kids' bedtime (and you lost) As professional negotiators with ye...