Spring is commonly accepted throughout the real estate industry as one of the hottest times to buy or sell a home. In Aspen and Snowmass Village this old standby proves itself true every year. Particularly this year as things in in Snowmass Village and Aspen get hotter and more desirable by the minute. Recently ranked as one of the most expensive real estate markets in the world, it looks as though the sky is the limit in Aspen.

For those in the Aspen and Snowmass Village looking to sell their current home, to purchase an even more luxurious and resplendent home in town or maybe nestled deeply into a large lot just down the road, there are a few things to keep in mind when preparing a house for a showing in the luxury market.

First and foremost, the old rules still apply. Even in the luxury market, the home must be decluttered. This advice applies to eclectic artwork that may not appeal to every buyer or is very specific to an individual. It also applies to family portraits and photographs. Leave room for potential buyers to picture themselves in the home as their own.

Pay attention to details ~ Buyers in this demographic want their home to meet a certain standard, inside and out make sure the house is clean, the landscaping is trimmed and ready. Some real estate experts recommend the placement of fresh flowers strategically throughout the house. A slight expense, however, flowers make the home look and feel fresh. They also add an extra ‘je ne sais quoi’ quality to the home.

The luxury market does sometimes require extra discretion. Due to the large quantities of money involved in these transactions, some sellers may wish to protect their identity. In these cases, a professional stager can be brought in to ensure that the home does not reveal the seller or provide hints about their lifestyle or occupation. Stagers are also excellent at ensuring the furnishings and artwork within the property are properly laid out to appeal to luxury buyers.

Be sure to communicate to your agent the upgrades, brand names and the quality of even the smallest details in your home. These details will be important during the negotiations of the offer.  Likewise, those in the luxury market appreciate these extra details differentiating the home from anything else on the market.

For those interested in purchasing their first home in the luxury market, those upgrading or those purchasing a second home or investment property, be patient in your purchase. Particularly at this time of year many homes will be listing throughout the season. If the right house hasn’t entered the market – it will soon.

In the luxury market it is not uncommon for homes to be unlisted, but still available for sale. Due to privacy concerns, some sellers keep their homes quietly for sale with their agent. If nothing on the market appeals to you, it is possible to ask your agent if they are aware of anything unlisted that might suit your needs.

Know what you want, and where there is room for compromise. Laws in Aspen and Snowmass Village limit future building, meaning it may be easier to purchase a home and update or remodel that it would be to build from scratch.

The last but most important tip in buying or selling a home or doing both, is to make sure your have a great real estate agent familiar with Snowmass Village, Aspen and the luxury real estate market.  Greg Rulon and his team at Joshua & Co. have been selling homes and finding the perfect residents for their clients in the Snowmass/Aspen area since 1975. This team of real estate professionals will walk you through the ins and outs of the process, ensuring that all of your needs are met from start to finish.

Click here to see some the properties, condos and homes listed with Greg Rulon and his team. Don’t wait another season to find the home of your dreams!