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Your home may need some simple improvements to sell it faster and for a higher price. The time and money invested will not be excessive. They can be a game changer in the long run, but only if they are planned and executed effectively. Here are some suggestions for getting the most out of your home during this pivotal time in your homeownership life.

## Put everything in order and keep only what you need

Even if they have sentimental value to you, potential buyers should not have to look beyond your belongings when they visit your home.

They need some impartiality to better project themselves into the domestic sphere. You should also take the time to declutter each space and get rid of unnecessary items, in addition to those that are purely personal. Certainly, clutter gives an unfavorable first impression and could ultimately hurt your business.

## Make sure there are no remaining problems

As you've grown accustomed to over time, the growing list of household problems probably doesn't seem so bad now. Many people, for example, put off changing a shower head, even if it shows signs of weakness and requires them to be very careful when using it.

On the other hand, if a switch is broken or the faucet leaks during the visit, you'll lose a lot of credibility with your contact. With these considerations in mind, they may try to negotiate a better price or even look elsewhere.

Don't skimp on these small repairs; they may seem unimportant, but they play a crucial role in the seduction needed to launch the first round of negotiations.

## Refurbish the furniture and give the space a thorough cleaning

Worried that people will judge you negatively if they see your living room is too small? This small flaw can be corrected without major demolition or construction initiatives.

In fact, there are several methods to make a room more spacious; for example, painting the walls white increases the chances that a buyer will find the space to their liking.

We also suggest updating the look of your home by getting rid of patterned wallpaper in private spaces like bedrooms and replacing it with a solid color paint.

Finally, a deep clean is necessary to restore each room to its showroom glory. Windows and mirrors should be washed and faucets polished before you begin cleaning the floor and other surfaces.

## If you want to increase the value of your home, you should consult an expert

If you work with a real estate agent, they can advise you on what improvements to make to your home to attract potential buyers and reduce the likelihood that they will choose to look elsewhere. Don't hesitate to ask them for advice; they are probably aware of many low-cost strategies that will guarantee increased revenue.

It's only natural to assume that clients will be more willing to explore every space in your home or apartment if you've taken the time to make it welcoming. Finally, you will have everything you need to close the sale at the best possible price!

4 Tips to increase the value of your property and sell it

How do landlords maintain good relations with their tenants.jpg

Relationships between tenants and landlords are generally difficult to manage. There are a number of resources available to landlords that can help them prevent evictions. For example, you can avoid many disputes by having a lease agreement tailored to your property. If you think it would be helpful to add certain provisions to your lease, you should consult a real estate agency to have your lease drafted to your specifications. We also have some other helpful tips to help you understand this link and reduce the energy consumption of your rentals.

## Prepare the basics by setting up the rules

In most cases, simply informing tenants of their responsibilities and obligations at the outset is enough to set the stage for a positive and productive relationship. Then, when you sign the lease, don't hesitate to revisit these guidelines to make sure everything is crystal clear.

Although it's probably already obvious, it's a good idea to mention that rent and utilities must be paid on time. If you don't want tenants to think they can get away with anything, it's best to be excessive about a few things. If you follow these basic guidelines, you can be sure that your tenants will have a pleasant experience in your unit.

Tenants should be aware that they are responsible for keeping the property in excellent condition and making any minor repairs that may be needed, in addition to standard requirements such as meeting the terms of the lease and obtaining insurance. If there is a serious problem that requires expert help (plumbing, electrical, boiler, water heater, etc.), make sure they know they can contact you. Remember that tenants will be more attentive to your property if you make them responsible for the condition of the property and insist that it be the basis for the tenants' departure.

## Safe and welcoming rental units

A few small acts of kindness can go a long way toward earning your tenants' trust and laying the foundation for a productive working relationship. First, make sure you clean the unit thoroughly and address any existing issues before they move in. This will prevent them from getting upset as soon as they arrive. The relationship with the tenants will get off to a good start if the apartment or house is ready for occupancy and free of serious defects.

In addition, you can hand over a record of recommendations you have made for your own home. When you rent a fully furnished and equipped house, it is essential to know how to operate the appliances. Put any detailed information about the use of the facilities (plumbing, circuit breaker, heating program, etc.) in this brief tenant's guide.

## Maintain a level of accessibility without becoming intrusive

Your tenants will really appreciate being able to contact you quickly in the event of a maintenance problem. Even if the residents are responsible for some of the maintenance, you must be accessible because you are ultimately responsible for the maintenance of the building.

However, tenants should not be harmed by this convenience. In other words, even if you live nearby, you should not visit them out of curiosity; that would be a big mistake. Even if you are the owner of the property, your tenants reside in the house and have full use and enjoyment of it as long as they pay their rent and do not cause a disturbance.

When rent is late or tenants are irresponsible with maintenance, it can be difficult to maintain a positive relationship with them. Using a real estate professional to manage the day-to-day operations of your investment property can help you sleep better at night and relieve some of the stress of owning an investment property.

How do landlords maintain good relations with their tenants?

Sanem.jpg

South-West Luxembourg is where you'll find Sanem. The town itself is located in a picturesque setting, removed from the hustle and bustle of the city. This idyllic enclave is the largest municipality in the canton of Esch-sur-Alzette and is made up of the four separate communities of Soleuvre, Sanem, Belvaux, and Ehlerange.

The 17,277 city dwellers here enjoy a truly remarkable urban setting that includes 2,449 hectares of parks and other green areas. Sanem attracts families looking for green space, as well as Luxembourgers and non-natives seeking a privileged living environment, with its convenient location, lush nature, high standards of service and infrastructure, strong sense of community, and forward-looking plans. Let's examine the advantages of purchasing property in Sanem, Luxembourg.
Sanem is a gateway to Europe.

## Sanem is ideally located on the border with France

It takes its residents 10 minutes to reach Belgium, 20 minutes to reach Luxembourg City and Bettembourg, and 30 minutes to reach Remich and the German border.

With people from over one hundred different countries making up 36% of the population, Luxembourg benefits from its advantageous location in more ways than one.

Those in the market for a new home or apartment in Luxembourg often look to this cosmopolitan area because of its convenient location.

## A naturalist's dream, Sanem is located in a pristine forest

Around 68% of Sanem's land is owned by nature, which serves to sublimate the town through its many parks, open fields, and forests.

All the conveniences of urban living are available to the locals here, and they do so in a beautiful natural setting that is perfect for outdoor activities like hiking.

Inhabitants can take advantage of the area's many mountain bike and pedestrian routes to explore the region's natural beauty and rich history.

Hiking up the Zolverknapp (the southernmost peak of Luxembourg), taking a stroll along the national footpath "Sud II," and taking a short tour of the park at Gaalgebierg are all great ways to spend a day in Luxembourg. Within Sanem's municipal boundaries, one can experience a variety of landscapes that flow into but differ from one another.

## Life is good in Sanem, the desert oasis

Both Sanem's calmness and its energy are attractive.

Sanem combines the vivacity of the city with the serenity of the countryside with its high-quality infrastructures (schools, tennis courts, soccer stadiums, cultural centers, halfway houses...) and events held all year long. A balanced composition that appeals to a growing number of families in search of a home that suits their unique needs.

The senior club in Differdange is a great place for retirees to unwind, while the community garden in Sanem is a great place for parents to get some fresh produce, the youth center in Soleuvre is a great place for young people to socialize, and the many "Maisons Relais" in the area are perfect for the young children in the community to develop and thrive. Regardless of your interests or age, Sanem has something to offer you.

## Recreation Travel in Sanem, Luxembourg

Sanem is a fantastic tourist destination because of the castle and park that surround the magnificent structure, both of which are designed to provide visitors with the greatest possible pleasure.

The famous and enchanted "Water Feeling" is among the events you simply must witness. Midway through November, this festival fills the park surrounding Sanem Castle with tens of thousands of visitors. In a warm, casual, and intergenerational setting, attendees can shop at a solidarity market and enjoy local delicacies, live music, and creative performances.

What do you know about the commune of Sanem in Luxembourg ?

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The wonder of Christmas 2022 is alive and well in every household, thanks to presents, decorations, and festive meals. Keeping up with current fashion trends is essential for creating memorable holiday celebrations. Moreover, this year's Christmas is being celebrated with a more responsible attitude due to the awakening of the collective ecological conscience. Give your guests a taste of the good life by providing them with something magical they will never forget, whether it's something homemade or eco-friendly.

We're getting close to Christmas, and soon there will be cheer everywhere you go. The Christmas celebration is synonymous with ornaments and presents. It's time to start hunting for the perfect tree to fill the home with a thousand glowing candles and the hearts of your loved ones. However, at Christmas, it is the entire display, not just the tree, that establishes the mood. So, if you want your tree to be the center of attention, you should decorate the inside with just as much glitz. Elegant interior colors and fine china from the great days are required for a properly dressed tree. All the rooms in the house, from the kitchen to the living room, the bedrooms to the porch, should be decorated with Christmas lights and the house should ring with the cheerful sounds of holiday music.

_“Wooden alternatives to plastic decorations are becoming increasingly popular, but plastic ones are still widely available”._

## In 2022, ecological concerns will dominate holiday fashion

The year 2022 will be remembered as the year that saving our planet became a cultural movement. The goal this year is to reduce Christmastime garbage to a minimum. Ecological disasters, such as the fire in the Amazon and the global heat wave, have been a defining feature of 2019. This year's popular Christmas decoration themes center around the outdoors. Expensive and wasteful plastic decorations are no longer on the table. At Christmas 2022, we aim to use only natural decorations and produce no waste. Your holiday spending will be affected as a result. Sustainable ecological practices are not only possible, but also within everyone's grasp. Stick to natural materials like plants, dried flowers, and glitter-covered pine cones you find in the woods. Although plastic ornaments can take a beating and still be found in stores, their wooden counterparts are becoming increasingly popular. Crafted by local artisans from materials like glass and wood, these seasonal ornaments will be all the rage in 2022. The ecological problem extends to the thousands of gift wrappers. For this reason, the creed is to employ fabric and paper packaging made from recycled materials.
We don't want to leave the environment out of the festivities, so we'll be giving preference to organic and home-cooked dishes whenever possible. This means that families need to prioritize quality over quantity once again.

## For the 2022 holiday season, decorators have opted for a particular style

When it comes to the style of Christmas decorations, it's almost like a recap of all the major movements that happened in the world that year. It's the newest fashion trend to hit the scene before the new year. Christmas draws energy from the fads that have kept the year moving forward. A balance between urban and ecological fashion has emerged as a result of a return to nature. Metal textures coexist with more natural and refined modern ones. However, the plant movement has become dominant. In 2019, mistletoe, Christmas tree branches, and eucalyptus bouquets will be a popular way to reminisce about the holiday season. There has been a recent surge in the use of plants as interior design elements. After being demoted for some time, this year's Christmas 2022 sees the natural wreath rise to its rightful place at the top of the holiday decorations hierarchy. Making the wreath that will hang on the front door is a great way for families to reconnect. The ornaments that will adorn the tree will also be made of wood. Cork is quickly becoming a popular alternative to traditional decorative materials like fur and synthetic velvet.

## The Recycling Movement

When someone mentions ecology, the word "recycling" immediately comes to mind. It's not just the dominant hand that's being put to use in the ecologically conscious 2022 trend forecast. People in France give their attics a once-over and bring out their dusty Christmas decorations. Lacking necessary equipment? A quick jaunt through the thrift stores is obligatory! Retro is charming in its own right, and revival styles inject fresh ideas into interior design. If you only get together with everyone once a year, the location of the dishware is something to prioritize if you want to host a large number of guests. Or you could just borrow Mamie's service and have everyone in the family happy with the stories she tells. Glass balls in a pine cone are back this year to add a touch of class to Christmas, which, let us not forget, is also a time when many people make a commitment to the fight for the planet's survival.

## The Tropical Style: A True Escape to the Islands

The plant-based style of the moment draws inspiration from the countryside to create a one-of-a-kind and bespoke aesthetic in interior design. If the chirping of fir trees gives you a headache, you can still have a green Christmas without letting any fir trees into your home. Preservation of natural resources entails more than just choosing not to have a tree cut down. There are, however, artificial twig options available to you if you insist on having your ideal Christmas tree. On the other hand, if you're not particularly invested in the tree story, you may choose to abandon it altogether. One of the 2022 fashion trends is exotic. You can make the tropical plants that decorate your home year-round ready to accept gifts and shine brightly during the holiday season. Simply embellish them with your natural ornaments and make them shine with metallic silver or brass accessories.

4 trends to decorate your home for Christmas 2022

How to make the right choice between buying and renting a home.jpg

The age-old question of whether to buy or rent a primary property persists. A renter who does not have the notion of "losing money" should not feel compelled to become a landlord. Each choice has advantages and disadvantages that one must be aware of and weigh against one's personal situation and long-term financial outlook, as well as the economic climate of the area in which one is considering moving.

## This decision depends on your personal situation

Renting is convenient for nomads because it requires little long-term commitment. A lease often lasts only a few years, is easy to get rid of before it expires and does not tie up too much money. Both personal and professional factors can contribute to this type of transience, such as a desire to constantly explore new places and experiences or a reluctance to settle in one place (frequent moves, ongoing career without geographic stability...). In addition, renting is quick and easy, as there are few administrative hurdles to overcome. Especially after the birth of a first child, many people decide to buy a home to ensure their family's financial stability for the future.

## Costs associated with renting or buying

Renters are only responsible for the monthly rent and utilities (water, gas and electricity) (taxes, condo fees, work, improvements...). Thus, this choice entails less risk than a purchase and occasionally allows the constitution of a modest capital, allowing the conception and realization of future projects. However, buying is considered a longer-term investment, and the monthly payments can be similar to renting if the loan term and interest rate are well calibrated. The only real difference is that at the end of the loan, the subscriber actually owns the property. Don't forget that this acquisition project can benefit from financial aid from various grants and bonuses.
A buyer commits more financially, with this part of uncertainty linked to the evolution of the real estate market that he must accept, whereas a tenant can have the impression of "throwing money out of the window", even if paradoxically, it can also allow him to put some aside for other projects.

## Economic and geographic factors

Thinking about the city in which you want to live is critical to your decision to rent or buy a home, as the economic potential of the city can influence your decision. While real estate prices in Luxembourg tend to rise everywhere and every year, in some areas they are so high that any benefit from a purchase would take years to realize. However, in other areas, the payback period is shorter, making the purchase more financially viable.

This predicament is common, and it persists in part because there is no single answer to the question posed. Beyond location and economic climate, individual and financial considerations weigh heavily in the decision to rent or buy a home.

How to make the right choice between buying and renting a home ?

What type of property to buy for a rental property investment in Luxembourg.jpg

Many people are contemplating investing in rental property in Luxembourg, which is not just for the very wealthy, because interest rates on real estate loans remain attractive and the simple fact of receiving rent makes it easy to repay the monthly payments. Of course, even before committing to a purchase, the question of what kind of property to buy arises. How do you know which apartment to choose will yield a quick return on investment? This is the recommendation of our group.

## Consult a service provider about purchasing a Luxembourg rental property

Real estate investment in Luxembourg can be difficult if you are not an expert in the field and do not know all of the ins and outs involved. Making this dream a reality with the aid of an expert firm will ensure that you make a wise investment that will bring you success and help you accomplish your goals (invest your money safely, prepare for your retirement or optimize your taxes).

## Identify a home that will help you achieve your goals

You can expect a difference in the purchase price of a home in Luxembourg City based on its age.

- Value Estimate for Future Availability (VEFA) on Schedule
- Greater than six years old
- Over the age of 60

For instance, only the portion of the registration fee that applies to your portion of the land is due under a VEFA. Those looking to minimize their tax liability should prioritize purchasing a newly constructed home. The purchase of a property older than 60 years can be appealing for those with a high tax burden. The next step is to begin the required renovations in order to increase the property's value and qualify for certain tax deductions.

_“Those looking to save money on taxes might consider investing in a building that is at least 60 years old”._

## Pick a place that is "bare" or one that is "furnished"

Furnished rentals in Luxembourg City, like elsewhere, are always more expensive. The tenant need not worry about buying a bed, storage furniture, or kitchen equipment because all of that is supplied. The initial outlay may be high due to the necessity of new purchases, but the higher rental income will quickly cover those costs.

However, renting an apartment or house without furniture is a safer bet if you don't want to constantly be on the lookout for new tenants. In this arrangement, rental vacancies are relatively unimportant. Furnished housing, on the other hand, is popular primarily among tourists and short-term visitors. Thus, they call for a higher level of management effort. You can also contact a real estate agency in Luxembourg for the rental, and they will handle all the necessary paperwork and management on your behalf.

What type of property to buy for a rental investment in Luxembourg?

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The first step in selling any piece of real estate is to determine its fair market value. From there, you can calculate a selling price around which to base your negotiations. Trust the agencies, they keep a constant watch to gauge as precisely as possible the attractiveness of a house or apartment, and knowing the real estate prices in Luxembourg in 2022 is essential to positioning yourself strategically on the market.

## Put your faith in the experts, and not your feelings

In the agencies, the forecasts of real estate prices in Luxembourg are of equal interest to the prices of properties in different parts of the country. Concretely, the experts keep a constant eye on the market, so they always know what's hot and what's not, what industries are in demand, and what kinds of properties are likely to sell quickly.

It's natural for a homeowner to place a high value on their home, as it represents their heritage, the fruits of their labor, and the place where they've raised their children. But it's crucial that you separate yourself emotionally from the property, as the prospective buyers who come to see it won't care about any of the sentimental touches you put into it. That's why it's best to work with a real estate agency when selling a home in Luxembourg: they have a better understanding of market conditions and can get you top dollar for your home.

_"Since it is likely that you inherited the property, likely spent time and effort improving it, and witnessed the growth of your family there, your natural inclination may be to give it a higher value than it actually merits”._

## As a benchmark, you can look at the expected real estate price in Luxembourg in the year 2022

Despite the improvements you've made to the inside and the property's inherent qualities, the value of your home is likely lower now than it was a decade ago. Its value will decrease over the next five to ten years.

Various factors such as mortgage rates, ongoing construction projects, the cost of brand-new homes in Luxembourg, and the number of available units all contribute to the market's volatility. Therefore, in order to provide the most accurate valuation of a property possible, it is essential to have extensive knowledge in the field. This is work best left to the experts.

## If you are unsure, it is best to get multiple quotes

It's possible that you've started the process by getting an online property valuation in Luxembourg. Many sites provide this service, which can give you a rough estimate of what you can get when you put your home up for sale.

Results from such an approach are merely indicative and should not be relied upon in any way. In fact, having a real estate agent come out to your home to make the estimate is your best bet.

And if you think his rate is too low, if you're worried that he's underestimating the value of your home, there's nothing stopping you from calling another agency and asking for a second evaluation.

_"Not much is stopping you from asking for a second opinion from a different organization”._

Real estate prices in Luxembourg in 2022!

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In order to sell a property in Luxembourg, a series of in-depth technical diagnostics of the property must be carried out. These mandatory or strongly recommended diagnostics must ensure the quality of the building and its energy efficiency.

## Technical diagnoses: checks on the structure of the building

### Diagnosis of the exposure to asbestos

Asbestos was widely used before its ban in 2001 due to its technical efficiency, its identification as a health hazard serves as a safety guarantee for potential buyers. Since 2007, the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg requires regular inspections before and after construction projects to mitigate the potential dangers posed by the confirmed presence of the material.

### Lead diagnosis

Although this diagnosis is not mandatory, it helps to alleviate the fears of potential buyers because the material it refers to is itself extremely dangerous to human health. The use of lead in interior paint was common in the past, but has been illegal in Luxembourg since 1949. Note that only well-trained experts should perform this analysis.

### Moisture diagnosis

Even if a moisture analysis is not necessary in this scenario, it can still help the seller if it shows that the substrate is in good condition for construction. Especially if you know the extent of damage caused by the appearance of Salpeter (on putty, gips, upholstery, walls and decks) and merula (on retaining walls, roof supports, railings, pavers and cement). Don't forget the diseases exacerbated by humidity (rhinitis, asthma, bronchitis...).

## The energy balance

### Energy efficiency verification document (Energy Performance Certificate)

Since the Grand-Ducal regulation of November 30, 2007, the sale of a building requires an energy efficiency certificate called energy performance certificate (CPE) or energy passport (Energiausweis). It indicates the energy efficiency class, the thermal insulation class and the CO2 emissions. Don't forget that since January 1, 2017, all new construction must meet strict requirements allowing for near-zero energy consumption (NZEB NearlyZero Energy Building), or class AAA.

### BlowerDoor Test

Existing structures are not required to undergo the BlowerDoor Test unless the owner intends to apply for a grant to install mechanical ventilation. However, it focuses primarily on indicating potential air and water leaks in the home and offers advice on how to muffle the noise they make. This test is mandatory for all newly built homes, and the results are used to determine the energy rating of the apartment.

These technical property diagnoses must be initiated by the property owner and performed by trained professionals. Prices vary depending on the location of the property, its size and the options chosen by the owner, such as whether or not he/she wishes to benefit from the strongly recommended tests as well as the mandatory ones.

What are the technical real estate diagnoses before the sale?

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You can sell your home or apartment on your own (by dealing solely with other individuals) or you can contact a real estate agency in Luxembourg City (or in your area) to handle the sale on your behalf. You should pick the second option if you value your time and effort. And if you're still in the market for an agency, we'll lay out the case for working with a local firm.

## Choosing a property management company based in Luxembourg City provides a comforting sense of proximity

Finding a local agency in Luxembourg City to handle the sale of your home will make coordinating with your point of contact much easier. Schedule meetings with your agent and consider making trips to the office to complete paperwork or pick up deliverables as part of this project. Working with a local expert makes sense from a logistical standpoint.

_"From a purely pragmatic standpoint, it makes sense to collaborate with a local professional!"_

## Possessing a solid grasp on the state of the housing market in one's area

To increase the speed with which you find a buyer, list your house with a real estate agency in the area where it is most likely to sell, such as the north of Luxembourg or the road of Esch in Luxembourg. This is because local agencies have an intimate familiarity with the area in which they operate, allowing them to not only provide a more accurate valuation of the property but also make better use of their resources. That way, they can immediately contact people who might be considering purchasing a home like this.

## Forming a reliable bond that helps with sales

You will always gain something by teaming up with a local business, no matter what field you operate in. There may be large agencies that sell and rent out a lot of properties, but you may find it more convenient to work with someone who deals with fewer properties at a time but gives each one their full attention. Your real estate agent should treat you like a human being, not a file number. If you can get through this trying time, you'll come out stronger on the other side.

_“Your real estate agent should treat you like a person, not a transaction”._

## If you decide to go with an exclusive mandate, this decision takes on even greater significance

In Luxembourg City, you can choose between a simple mandate and an exclusive mandate to sell your home. Agents in Luxembourg City have more flexibility to negotiate exclusivities due to the fast changing market. More information is shared, and every effort is made to sell quickly and for the highest possible price. Pick a local point of contact if you're only going to work with one agency through an exclusive mandate.

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