Seller Information
    If you decided to sell your home, chances are you are caught up in a host of emotions. You may be looking forward to moving to your new dream house or facing the uncertainty of a major move across country. You may be reluctant to leave your memories behind or eager to start new adventures. Whatever turbulent feelings you’re experiencing right, there are plenty of practical matters that need your attention. Keep in mind that qualify and experience real estate agent, like me will make the whole process go more smoothly.
 

Time Becomes Money
    It is a good idea to place your home on the market as far in advance as possible of purchasing a new one. If you find a new home first and then try to sell your present home, you may wind up with two mortgages. If this does happen, ask your me or banker about a bridge loan to help you make the double payments. Lenders use the same criteria for offering bridge loans as they use for mortgages. If you choose to accept a bridge loan, beware of the expense; during the term of the loan you must continue to pay both mortgages.
    Keep in mind that when people move, sell and buy, there usually is a domino effect. Closing and moving dates have to be coordinated, and the more firmly everyone commits to a window of dates and sticks to them, the better for all involved. I will make sure that all the agreements about dates, and financial penalties for failure to comply with them are in writing.
 

Check Your Curb Appeal
    A home that is visually appealing and in good condition will attract potential buyers driving down the street. Use this checklist to view your property through an buyer’s eyes.
  • Are the lawn and shrubs well maintained?
  • Are there cracks in the foundation or walkways?
  • Does the driveway need resurfacing?
  • Are the gutters, chimney and walls in good condition?
  • Do the window casings, shutters, siding or doors need painting?
  • Are garbage and debris stored out of sight?
 

Inside the Home
    Strong curb appeal will lure potential buyers inside, where you have to live up to their expectations. Fortunately, there are plenty of easy improvements you can make to your home’s interior without spending a lot of money. Cleaning is No. 1. Your windows, floors and bathroom tiles should sparkle. Make sure you have clean heating and air conditioning filters. Shampoo dirty carpets, repair dripping faucets and oil squeaky doors. It may not seem fair, but a peek in the oven may be the hallmark by which a buyer judges how well you have kept up your home.
    Remove unnecessary clutter from the garage, basement, attic and closets. If your home is crowded with too much furniture, consider putting some things into storage. If a room needs a fresh coat of paint, use a neutral off-white. Think, about how your home smells. You may be used to the smell of a pet or cigarettes, but such odors can be a strong turn-off to others. Finally, set a mood for the buyer. Make your house homey with live flowers and fresh guest towels in the bathroom.
    Remember, cosmetic changes do not have to be expensive. In fact, costly home improvements do not necessarily offer a good return on your investment when you sell. It’s attention to the basics -- anything that says "this home has been carefully maintained" -- that will help you get the price you want.
 

Sell It Alone or Choose Me for Your Agent?
    Some homeowners decide to sell their homes themselves in order to save the commission charged by a real estate agent. The commission rate vary, depending on what agency and/or agent you choose. However, handling your own sale means you will be responsible for placing ads, answering phones and showing your home to strangers. What is more, buyers who know you are saving on an agent’s commission may offer less for your home, wiping out the financial incentive to do it all yourself.
    You may decide an agent’s commission is a bargain the first time that a buyer shows up unannounced at dinnertime. Also, be aware that a real estate professional probably knows a lot more about the business of selling a home than you do. Here are some of the advantages that I can offer to you:
  • I will help you establish a fair asking price for your home.
  • I will promote your home to other agents and list your property in multiple listing services(MLS). A multiple listing service is a book and computer database that all real estate agents can access. Your home will get exposure to all those agents, one of whom may have the perfect buyer.
  • I will also create a Virtual Showing of your property on my website.
  • I will create, pay for and place advertising for you.
  • I will schedule appointments to show your home to prospective buyers even when you are not there.
  • I can weed out buyers who will not qualify for a mortgage.
  • I will help you negotiate with the buyer.
 

Setting A Fair Price
    Of course, you want to get top dollar for your home. But, remember, you don’t want to scare off potential buyers with a price tag that’s too high for your house. Setting an artificially high price may cause your property to languish on the market for months. Reducing your asking price later on may lead buyers to wonder if there is something wrong with your home. Here are some of the factors to consider in pricing your home:
  • Your location
  • Economic conditions
  • Supply and demand in the local housing market
  • Seasonal influences
  • Local schools
  • Average home prices in the neighborhood
  • Your home’s extras -- pool, fireplace, central air, etc.
    To determine the value of your home, you probably will want the advice of a real estate agent. Ask me about a free competitive market analysis (CMA), showing the recent selling prices of three to five neighborhood properties comparable to your own. I will adjust price for the unique features of your own property.
    I will eliminate potential buyers who cannot really afford to purchase your home. A number of different factors and my experience will help me determine whether or not you are wasting your time negotiating a sale.
  • The buyer´s debt and credit history
  • The buyer´s current income and employment
  • The buyer´s cash position and availability of a down payment
  • The length of time the buyer needs to close on your home
  • How interested the buyer appears to be in your home versus others

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Revised: January 12, 2004