Many homebuyers have a list of amenities they want in their new neighborhood, while others haven't given it a second thought. While you might think you don't need some of the most popular neighborhood perks, having them available will make the area more desirable and improve your home's resale value. 

Not sure what types of perks to look out for? Here are the top eight that are trending right now. 

1. Access to Great Grocery Stores
   Thriving neighborhoods are often centered around food, so you'll want to make sure there are convenient shopping options nearby. Living near a fresh local food source like a Farmer's Market is ideal, but at a minimum, you'll want to make sure you're close to at least a few desirable grocery stores.
2. HOA Amenities
   If you're going to be paying homeowner's associati...

The landscaping around your home is the first things prospective homebuyers see when they pull up in the driveway. That first impression creates a lasting impression, and it is worth investing the time and effort to ensure your grass, trees, flowers, and shrubbery look their very best. As you prepare your home for its place in the real estate market, the following landscaping tips will help you set the stage for a successful sale. 

• Clear Away Clutter
  Get rid of garden gnomes, pink flamingos, rusty children's toys, and anything extraneous that detracts from the landscape. Simplifying the landscape creates a comfortable, calming ambiance. This helps home buyers envision their own lawn decorations in their new yard.
  
  
• Trim, Trim, and Trim Some...

A garage sale is an ideal way to get rid of clutter, earn extra cash, and make your home look more appealing--especially if you're listing it for sale. People don't want to see your kids' toys or the book you're reading when they come to an open house. They want to imagine their things in the house. A garage sale can also help you save on moving costs. Instead of paying to move everything you own to your new home, a garage sale will lighten the load of moving plus put money in your pocket.

Here are three pointers to plan your way to a successful garage sale.

1. Increase Your Curb Appeal
   When you have a yard sale, the front of your home is like the entrance to a conventional store. People may choose not to check out your sale if your yard looks run down or unkempt.
   
   Taking care of your yard will make your home easi...

If you want to enjoy a beautiful yard, now is the perfect time to get started.  Don't have a natural green thumb? No worries! Creating beautiful flowerbeds is easier than you think when you plant these easy-to-care-for perennials. 

1. Peony
   With large, gorgeous, blooms that are both colorful and strongly-scented, the Peony is one of the most popular perennial flowers. They're also extremely dependable. They often bloom for three or more years, and some continue to come back and bloom for many decades! 
2. Black-Eyed Susan
   The Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia) creates cheery-looking blooms that resemble daisies. The petals come in shades of yellow or orange and have dark centers. They're naturally resistant to insects and drought and most v...