Articles Tagged "For owners"

If you work from home, it's important to have the proper space to do it in. Maybe you just had your laptop on the kitchen table in your old place, but now, after looking at Atlanta homes for sale, you've finally found a house with space for a real home office. Now comes the task of setting it up and making it your own. Here's how to take your home office to the next level.

• Ergonomic Chair. If you're sitting at your computer for hours, it's important to have proper support. Extended sitting can lead to back problems, poor posture, and high blood pressure. An ergonomic chair helps eliminate these problems, allowing you to sit straighter and more comfortably. Keeping your neck and back from aching, your feet from falling asleep, and more it's essential for any home office.

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Especially if your family has allergy or asthma sufferers, clean air is important. There are plenty of Atlanta homes for sale, but do they have good air circulation? Here are a few ways to improve your home's Indoor Air Quality (IAQ).

• IAQ Test. If you're looking at a house but are concerned about air quality, have it tested. There are DIY kits for this, though a professional will get more complete results. They can tell you how polluted the air is, which specific contaminants are in it, and how to eliminate them.

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Entertaining outside is one of the benefits of summer weather, but out-of-control mosquitoes can make an evening spent outside less than pleasant for your guests. Fortunately, there are things you can do to keep those skeeters at bay! Here are a few suggestions from our real estate agents for making your patio party more enjoyable for everyone.

• Use scents mosquitoes hate.
  Mosquitoes hate certain strong, sharp scents enough that using them liberally can help keep the biting pests away. Citronella is a common scent that people use to ward off mosquitoes and can be burned in candle form or added to tiki torch fuels. Cedar oil is another that mosquitoes and other pests dislike, so you can dilute it with water and spray it on the grass, plants, and outdoor furniture for a fresh scent and a bug-free experience.

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As more people understand the need for sustainable living, homeowners are trying to adopt more eco-friendly practices. Going green not only benefits the environment but also increases your home's value, makes it durable, and helps you save on energy bills. As the government drives to eliminate the use of plastics and push citizens to adopt sustainable lifestyles, our real estate agents put together these six features you can use to go green in your home.

1. Install a Smart Thermostat
   When the temperature is extremely cold or hot, it's easy to leave the HVAC unit on for longer than you need. The heating and cooling system consumes a significant proportion of energy in your home.

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Whether the musicians in your home are practicing scales for the first time or rehearsing for the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, their basic needs in a music room are the same. Our real estate agents have some tips to share to help convert a spare room in your home into the perfect space for them and the people who wish to hear them. 

• Soundproofing
  If air can pass around doors and windows, so can sound. Cut down the leaks with weather stripping, door sweeps, and soundproofing duct liner around heating and cooling ducts. Like light, sound reflects off of hard surfaces, reverberating repeatedly. Carpeting, rugs, and wall hangings go a long way to dull unwanted echoes and resonance. If the room does double duty, shelves of books and spare beds also absorb sound, as do heavy drapes. While you want the sound to be partially absorbed, you still need to leave some hard surfaces to maintain the natural frequency of the music. Hard floors with luxurious rugs combine the best of both.

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Patios offer stellar opportunities to add beautiful comfort to your outdoor living space, our real estate agents would like to share some ideas with you about how to use these spaces to their very best advantage. 

• Discover the Versatility of Container Planters
  Just as you can move your furniture to change the look of the inside of your home, you can change the exterior with plants that can be moved. To ease this process, heavier plants should be placed on wheeled platforms. Placement and purpose of the containers can also serve a variety of functions. For example, you can define entryways with tall plants such as juniper or boxwood. Juniper can be easily shaped into column-shaped accents. Foliage and vines can define a wall surrounding your patio but are less mobile.

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An expansive kitchen is among the top attractions for people looking into Atlanta homes for sale. However, don't discount any house you love just because of a narrow kitchen. With a few remodeling tricks, you can turn a galley kitchen into a sophisticated space that looks wider than it actually is. Our real estate agents have some creative tips to maximize the square footage of a narrow kitchen.

• Invest in Custom Cabinetry
  Traditional galley designs have upper and lower cabinets on opposite sides for symmetry and storage. If your kitchen has awkward angles, built-in cabinets will help you create something exceptional out of the unusual curves. You may need additional drawers for small appliances and other kitchen items and more shelving in different sections. Use cabinets with clean lines and modest hardware like pull bars or glass-front cabinets to add depth.

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National Puppy Day is coming up on March 23rd, and of course, it's that time of year: puppy season! Spring litters will soon be everywhere, rescues will be looking for homes, and chances are if you've been considering a dog, this is when the hypothetical discussion is likely to become a reality. If you're in the market for a puppy, consider these tips from our real estate agents for getting your home puppy-proofed first.

• Keep trouble out of reach. Look around your house. There are probably many items that aren't safe for puppies. You'll need to get all of those moved out of reach of a puppy, which means putting medications and dangerous chemicals in upper cupboards, picking up throw rugs, and moving poisonous plants out of reach.

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If you want to create a beautiful outdoor garden area for your home, consider a butterfly garden with colorful blooms. Butterfly gardens are not only visually interesting, but they are also beneficial for the environment. If you want a lovely garden that promotes a healthy landscape and great curb appeal, follow some tips from our real estate agents to create a stunning butterfly garden.

• Choose the Right Garden Site
  When choosing your garden site, it's important to select an area where you can plant a variety of plants, including trees, shrubs, vines, and perennials. By planting greenery that grows to different sizes and heights with various colors and flowers that bloom at different times during the year, you will create a garden that attracts a wide range of butterflies. Grouping a variety of plants will create unity in your garden and cut down the distance that butterflies have to travel for nectar.

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Oh, there are definitely spots in your house that need some deep cleaning. Even if you're a neat freak or pretty diligent about home maintenance, they're some areas you may be neglecting.

If you're not properly maintaining your home, the damages will be all too evident come inspection time. Consult our real estate agents to figure out which areas of your house could use some sprucing before putting your home up for sale.

That said, carrying out some chores can help prevent long-term and even expensive damage. Here are five cleaning tasks that don't often make it onto spring cleaning lists.

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Plants transform any living space into a home, in addition to purifying the air and adding a chic aesthetic. Many Atlanta homes for sale feature houseplants to attract buyers who appreciate greenery and eco-friendly spaces.

Most people hesitate to buy plants because they aren't gardening experts. However, there are durable plants that require little maintenance to stay alive. Scroll through the list below to explore some low-maintenance options.

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While many homeowners downplayed New Year's in 2020, this year will probably be bigger for a lot of families. Perhaps that's why Atlanta homes for sale have become such a popular discussion. To help you start 2022 in the best way possible, our real estate agents have compiled a quick list of ways to ring in the new year in your new (or existing) home. 

1. New Year's Essentials
   You can't start off a New Year's celebration in your new home without some of the essentials. We're talking, of course, about party hats, noisemakers, confetti poppers, and all that jazz. It also wouldn't hurt to pick up some crazy 2022 glasses to pass out to your guests. Go to any party store or most department stores, and you'll find plenty of great selections.

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Kitchen islands have become a popular addition for homeowners looking to renovate their kitchen design to meet the current trend. Our real estate agents have noticed most homebuyers prefer a kitchen with an island as it helps them enjoy more counter space, storage, and an eating area. Other than these advantages, how can a kitchen island be a game-changer for your home?

• Ample and Flexible Workspace
  Kitchen spaces tend to be compact and are designed to be enough. However, a lot of activity occurs in the kitchen, and an additional counter can help provide enough flexible working space. It relieves the kitchen of the overburdened and cramped counters.
  
  Furthermore, you can add extra kitchen amenities like a stovetop on the kitchen island, which can help change the usefulness of your kitchen. An island also makes it easy to accommodate more people in the kitchen without it seeming crowded.

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Buying a new home is a big step for most people, especially first-time homebuyers. Our real estate agents know that it's an important part of building a life in a new community with other families, neighborhood activities, and friendly neighbors.

With the real estate market booming and the high demand for Atlanta homes for sale, it's likely that you know someone who recently purchased a new home or condo. A housewarming gift is a wonderful way to say hello and welcome them to the neighborhood. Whether you prefer a useful gift or a gift that's just fun, we have some great suggestions for the perfect housewarming gift.

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The living room is one of the most important spaces in many households, serving as a gathering spot for conversation, entertainment, and hobbies. However, our real estate agents know that it's easy for "stuff" to overwhelm your living room, especially if you lack ample storage for efficient organization. Here are some living room storage ideas to assist with your organizational efforts. 

1. An Entertainment Center
   An entertainment center is an excellent addition because it serves multiple functions with one piece of furniture. Your entertainment center holds your TV and all your electronic items, like your gaming consoles, cable box, and Blu-Ray Player. It also provides drawers or cabinets for you to store additional entertainment accessories. Use your entertainment center to house your video game collection, DVDs, extra gaming controllers, and remote controls. If you have any free space left, use it to stow books, blankets, toys, or collectibles.

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Today, the majority of American families own pets. As important members of your household, it's vital to make pets feel at home and take the necessary measures to protect them. If you're finding it difficult to find a pet-friendly house in a safe and welcoming neighborhood, our real estate agents can help you out.

In honor of National Pet Fire Safety Day, on July 15th, here are some ways you can make your home safer for your furry friends.

• Prevent Your Pets From Starting Fires
  Pets start nearly 1,000 home fires every year, making it necessary to pet-proof your home and eliminate any potential hazards, such as loose wires. Other tips include:

• • Lock or cover stove knobs. Your pet may nudge the knobs just enough to ignite the burners.
  • Do not leave candles unattended. It's a good idea to extinguish all open flames so a stray tail or paw doesn't tip them over.
  • Beware of glass water bowls on wooden decks, especially on hot summer days. Hot rays from the sun can ignite wood when filtered through glass.

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If you've been looking at some of the beautiful landscaping surrounding many Atlanta homes for sale and wondering why some of them look so much nicer than yours, it may be a simple matter of sun mapping. That may sound like the latest hack, but it's actually a tried-and-true procedure used by the most successful gardeners. It's simply a method of identifying where to place each plant according to its sunlight needs. While there are gadgets available to do the job, most are a waste of money. They do measure the sunlight accurately, but they don't create the map that you will ultimately need. Why not enjoy your time outdoors and do the job right without spending a penny?

• Sketch the area to be planted
  This may be a simple rectangle, but more than likely, there will be trees and walls that create shady spots throughout the day. These are the areas you will eventually identify and record. The map doesn't need to be exact or to scale as long as you can follow it later. One thing to consider is the shade that will be cast by the canopy of a tree without leaves. You may have to estimate.

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Few decorating moves can transform the ambiance of a room as easily and inexpensively as a fresh coat of paint. The shade we pick to adorn our interior walls provides a background on which the rest of our aesthetic choices are based on. Picking the right color, however, is no walk in the park. It's a boggling world of various shades, tints, and hues, each one just a little different from the last. Many just choose their favorite color or go all-out with the color of the day, only for it to look like a dud once it's up on the walls. To put this age-old problem to rest, our real estate agents have compiled a list of the best tips on how to find the perfect interior paint color the first time.

• Do Your Homework Before Shopping
  Finding the perfect paint color starts at home. Before you make a trip to the paint store, gather inspiration from fabric swatches, magazines, and catalogs. Pinterest is also a great place to start, so login, make an inspiration board for your room, and pin designs that catch your eye. The inspirational ideas can help you visualize the perfect space and narrow down your paint color choices.

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One of the most important decisions you'll have to make when remodeling or adding on to your home is finding the right contractor for your job. After all, you're putting a whole lot of trust into one person by giving them a lot of money and letting them and their crew in your home. You also expect them to deliver solid and satisfactory results without major confrontations. With that in mind, our real estate agents have compiled five questions to ask potential contractors that can help you find the best fit for your project.

1. Are You Licensed, Bonded, and Insured?
   A resounding yes is the answer you want to hear in response to this question. A license shows you that the contractor is qualified for the job you're looking to have completed and keeps up to speed on code changes and best practices. Having a surety bond is a security that if the contractor does not complete the job, you're protected by the surety company. The contractor should have general liability insurance and workers' compensation insurance to protect you from liability if something in your home is damaged or someone is injured while working on your property. Don't just take their word for it; ask for copies to ensure the contractor is current on credentials. If they can't provide papers, that should raise a red flag.

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Which is better, carpet or hardwood? This is a common question many homeowners have when trying to find the best flooring choice for their homes. The "right" decision for you will depend on your situation, budget, and taste. If you're planning to put your home on the market, you'll also need to consider the preferences and traditions in your neighborhood. Our real estate agents take a look at the difference between carpet floors and hardwood floors.

• Care and Cleaning
  Hardwood
  Of the two materials, hardwood flooring is easier to clean and maintain. The floor can be swept, vacuumed, or damp mopped to remove loose dirt, dust, surface stains, and other debris. Also, it's easier to spot dust and dirt on a hardwood floor.
  
  Carpet
  Keeping the carpet clean typically involves simple but frequent vacuuming. However, some people feel that keeping the carpet fully clean is a little tougher because stains soak in and settle permanently. Also, dust, pollen, micro-bacteria, and other allergens are easily trapped in the fibers. Carpet is a hard choice in high traffic areas and for people with pets or those who suffer from allergies.

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Adding a dedicated workout space to your home promotes health and wellness. It's also a great way to customize your new home or get the attention of buyers if you'll be selling soon. And the best part is that it's an upgrade that can work with any budget. Our real estate agents have seen a wide variety of gyms in Atlanta homes for sale, and we can tell you it's an upgrade you'll be glad to have. Here are some ideas to get you started

• Think about your training goals and workout style.
  This will help you decide on equipment and how much space you'll need. A home workout space can range from containing little or no equipment for bodyweight training workouts to the latest high tech cardio and weight training equipment that can cost thousands of dollars. You can use almost any space for a gym. A corner of the garage, an extra room, a basement, or even outside can offer all kinds of options for your own workout space.

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2021 is the perfect opportunity to spruce up your home and make it a little bit more comfortable. If you are looking for a fast and cost-effective option that will add value to your home, a fresh coat of paint is something our real estate agents highly recommend. Of course, it always pays to stay up-to-date on trends so that your paint choice matches the tastes of prospective buyers.

• Pantone Returns to the Classics
  Pantone's Color of the Year for 2020 was Classic Blue. This simple color makes a statement that is as soft and subtle as it is timelessly elegant. When you look at the world's most extraordinary homes and palaces, you will find plenty of Classic Blue walls, ceilings, and trim.
  
  For 2021, Pantone has chosen to stick with a more subdued color of Ultimate Gray. Soft and refined, it's a practical color that works well in living rooms, bedrooms, kitchens, and more. However, as with Classic Blue, it's best to use these colors in rooms with plenty of natural light; otherwise, it can feel a bit confining. In addition, Illuminating, a bright, sunny yellow, has also been showcased by Pantone for 2021 and provides a welcome pop of color when paired with Ultimate Gray.

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To see, or not to see — 'tis not the philosophical question anyone wants to grapple with while cooking their favorite meal. If you ask our real estate agents the one ingredient that can make a beautiful kitchen seem dull and drab, the top answer will almost always be the lighting. In particular, task lighting makes it much easier to achieve culinary perfection. Whether you are building a new home or renovating your kitchen, pay close attention to the illumination you put into the plans.

• Under-Cabinet Lights are Worth Their Weight in Golden Saffron
  Under-cabinet lights banish shadows from your countertops. They make it easier to fill the coffee pot, roll the dough, or chop the carrots. They also make these tasks safer and less likely to spill all over the floor when you miss your mark. These lights are simple and inexpensive to install. You can choose DIY plug-in puck lights and mounted strip lights for fast and inexpensive installation. However, the best option which will add significant value to the kitchen is professionally mounted hard-wired lights.  
  
  Because these lighting options fit snugly beneath the cabinets, they are an unobtrusive feature that won't eat up valuable storage space. They can be controlled by switches or operated via smart home systems. Connecting your under-cabinet lights to your smart home offers a considerable advantage: you won't have to wash your hands to turn the lights on or adjust the lighting. This can make cooking a little faster and easier.

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For most people, your home is one of your greatest resources in retirement, both as a place to live and an important financial asset. It should also be an important part of your retirement planning when you're preparing for the future. There are a variety of ways that you can gain equity from your property as a homeowner, while not owning a home can come with significant costs and financial uncertainty during retirement. Planning to retire soon? Our real estate agents have some important factors for you to consider how your home will factor into your retirement.

• Will You Be Carrying a Mortgage?
  Owning your home free and clear of mortgage payments is an ideal situation for retirement. There are significant tax benefits, and, of course, you won't have to worry about monthly mortgage payments. If you do have a mortgage that makes balancing your retirement budget complicated, then downsizing to a new, more affordable home can make life easier.
  
  

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As the days get shorter and the air gets crisper, it's time to start thinking about how to decorate your front porch for fall. Atlanta homes for sale will get more attention when they have a cozy, lived-in look. Add instant curb appeal by following these tips for the perfect, autumn-ready front porch.

• Create a Cozy Place to Sit
  If you have the space, create a cozy place to sit and sip on your morning coffee while you enjoy crisp autumn mornings. Set up a bench or a couple of chairs, depending on the size of your porch, and don't forget to make the area weather-proof so that you can enjoy your porch all autumn long. Partially enclosing the porch with windows or screens will let light in while acting as a windbreak, or you can hang insulated curtains to help keep the area comfortable. Throw pillows and blankets add the finishing touches to a cozy fall retreat.

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Remodeling your home is a fantastic way to make your home a little bit more comfortable and a little more valuable when the time comes to put it on the market. Our real estate agents recommend taking stock of your skills and abilities before performing any remodeling. While it is fine to do some tasks by yourself, it is important to know when to leave the job to a professional.

Go Ahead and Do It Yourself

You can probably take care of most painting tasks or hanging wallpaper. Likewise, you can do landscaping and most general maintenance tasks such as replacing baseboards or repairing damaged drywall. These tasks are not that difficult, and there is minimal risk of causing lasting damage to your home. Likewise, general maintenance tasks such as replacing air filters, cleaning gutters, repairing/painting fences, etc. are also easy to perform and won't risk damage to the home.

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Americans are embracing outdoor kitchens like never before. What has been a steady trend has really taken off in recent months as we stay home more and look to entertain small groups of family and close friends in safe gatherings. 

If you're thinking about building an outdoor kitchen on your property, you'll be upping its value among Atlanta homes for sale, particularly if you avoid certain outdoor kitchen mistakes. 

Our real estate agents can advise you on outdoor kitchens and a host of other topics to enhance your Atlanta home's value, including these common mistakes when planning an outdoor cooking and entertaining area.

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Maybe you're concerned that the exterior of your home looks a little drab and worn down. Or, perhaps you want a different style for your home's siding. Rejuvenate your home by re-siding it.

Re-siding is an excellent way to prepare your home to put on the market before you call our real estate agents. When re-siding your home, here are a few things you should consider. 

1. Whether Your Siding Actually Requires Replacement
   If you like the look of your home, but know your siding has quite a few holes and tears, it's important to determine if re-siding is your best option. While new siding will overhaul the entire look of your home, it's also a large investment.
   
   An alternative might be repairing or replacing the damaged portions of your home. Whether repairing is a viable solution depends on the age and condition of your siding and how many areas have damage.

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Summer is right around the corner, and there's no better time to host an outdoor movie night. Our real estate agents provide some tips for making your cinematic adventures go off without a hitch. 

Choose a Movie Everyone Will Enjoy

Unless your gathering is child-free, it's best to pick a G or PG film that's appropriate for people of all ages. If you're using social media to create an invitation, select a few potential movies and make a poll. That way, everyone can weigh in on what they want to watch.

Set Up Your Outdoor Theater

Once you've made a decision, it's time to get started. First, figure out how you're going to show the movie, whether it's by purchasing it digitally, using a DVD, or streaming it via services like Amazon Prime, Netflix, or Hulu. Creating an outdoor movie theater experience can be daunting. If you have any techie friends or family, ask them for a hand. Here's the equipment you'll need:

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A house full of persistent little sounds can drive you crazy all day and keep you up at night. House noises are usually early indicators of potential problems that require attention. Our real estate agents have prepared a list of fixes for the most common house noises to help you restore peace and quiet to your home.

• Whistling Window
  A window that whistles in a strong wind can make for a long day. The unwanted whistling can be caused by worn weather stripping, improperly installed windows, the simple passage of time, or changes in temperature. You can soundproof your window by caulking or weatherstripping around the frame to take care of any possible leak.

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Daily life can get stressful. Some chaotic days may leave you feeling out of control or burdened. During the hectic days, you must take care of yourself to avoid getting sick or overwhelmed. Making your current living space or new Atlanta homes for sale feel like a sanctuary is good for your overall health and well-being.

Thinking about what makes you feel relaxed and comfortable is the best way to create a sanctuary at home.  If you need some inspiration for your home, check out the following ideas.

• Declutter and Organize: For many individuals, extra clutter can cause stress. Spend some time decluttering your indoor living space. Donate unused clothing or other household items to charity. You'll even receive a tax write off. Invest in bins, totes, and filing cabinet to keep everything organized.

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Gardening is a fun, rewarding, and beneficial way to pass the time. Many of the Atlanta homes for sale have lots of yard space to explore your gardening adventure. Whether you are gardening for the first-time or a seasoned grower, a garden provides numerous benefits. Daily exercise, fresh air, stress reliever, and a better night's sleep are the top reasons to start a garden. Plus, the fresh vegetables are always a welcomed addition to your dinner plate.

Gardening season is the perfect time to discover your inner green thumb. Check out the following tips to get the most out of your garden experience this year.

• Know What You Want: Do you want to plant vegetables, herbs, or flowers? Or do you want to try a combination of all three? Knowing what you want to plant is an essential part of growing a garden. Start by making a list of the types of plants you want to grow.

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If you're lucky enough to have a home with a bonus room or a "flex space," you're already at an advantage. When you're ready to list, this will help your house stand out from many of the other Atlanta homes for sale. However, simply having this extra space isn't enough to attract a great buyer. You also need to know how to properly showcase the room so potential buyers will fall in love. 

Not sure where to start? No worries! Follow these five tips, and you'll be ready to turn your bonus room into one of your home's best features. 

1. Understand Your Potential Buyer
   The first thing you'll need to do is get a good idea of the type of person who is likely to buy your home. This will help you determine what they're likely to want when it comes to extra space. For example, if you live in an up-and-coming area that's popular with professionals, you might consider showcasing the room as a home office, gym, or entertainment room.

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