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Monday, 07 December 2009 21:45

Processing the Sale

A Realtor® has more responsibilities than listing and showing! You should be aware of what your Realtor® does after the contract is signed:

1. Open Escrow.

2. Deliver Earnest Money Contract and check to the Escrow Company.

3. Obtain receipt for earnest money check from the Escrow Company.

4. Order all necessary inspections.

5. Examine the Preliminary Title Report for clouds and make sure problems are disclosed early so closing is not delayed.

6. Insure that you receive copies of all documentation pertinent to the transaction.

7. Note all contingencies and attempt to remove them within the time limit provided or get an extension of time, if needed.

8. Keep you abreast of buyer’s loan application and the progress of the appraisal on your home.

9. Be present during inspections and keep you informed of their findings:

A. Physical Inspection

B. Pest Control

C. Pool

10. Arrange any required termite treatment and obtain certificate.

11. Coordinate execution of any required repairs.

12. Verify appraisal has been ordered and completed.

13. Monitor Escrow Company so that if any problems arise, we can solve them.

14. Coordinate the closing and move-in dates so that they are as convenient to both parties as possible.

 
Last Updated on Wednesday, 17 February 2010 17:25
 
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Monday, 07 December 2009 21:45

Preparing Your Home For Sale

A few great tips on creating an atmosphere that will charm buyers and make them want to buy your home. Remember that you’ll never get another chance to make a first impression. And first impressions are what count! Follow these simple tips and create the competitive edge that may help you sell your home more quickly.

Drive-up Appeal
  • Trim trees and shrubs, clean out flower beds and invest in a few flats of seasonal flowers, paint the front door, make sure doorbell is working properly, wash the mailbox, keep the porch swept and get an attractive mat for people to wipe their feet.

Absolute Basics
  • Start by airing out the home. Most people are turned off by even the smallest odor. Odors must be eliminated, especially those caused by dogs and cats; soiled diapers and/or cigarettes.
  • Wash all the windows in the home, inside and out. If it has been over a year since the carpets have been cleaned, now is the time to have them cleaned.
  • Bare floors should also be waxed or polished.
  • Put bright light bulbs in every socket made for a bulb. Buyers like bright & cheery.
  • Clean out closets, cabinets and drawers. Closets should look like they have enough room to hold additional items.
  • Get everything off the floor and don’t have the shelves piled to the ceiling. Rent a storage bin, if necessary.
  • Make sure rooms are not overcrowded with furniture. Select pieces that look best, and store the rest.
  • Keep the kitchen sparkling clean. Make sure all appliances are clean at all times. Straighten cupboards that appear cluttered and keep floors gleaming.
  • Bath tubs, showers and sinks should be freshly caulked. The grout should be clean and in good condition. There should be no leaks in the faucet or traps.

A few more suggestions…
  • If you have limited counter space in the kitchen, keep unnecessary items put away.
  • Keep children’s toys out of the front yard, sidewalks and front porch.
  • Clean the ashes out of the fireplace.
  • Make sure that the pull-down staircase is working correctly.
  • Be sure there is a light in the attic.
  • The pool needs to be sparkling and free of leaves.

Showing your home…
  • When you leave the house in the morning or during the day, leave it as if you know it is going to be shown.
  • Keep good scents in the house, such as potpourri or simmering pots or candles. Make sure all the lights are on and window treatments are open.
  • Turn off the television.
  • Keep pets out of the way - preferably out of the house. Many people are uncomfortable around some animals and may even be allergic to them.
  • Leave your premises. Take a short break while your home is being shown. Buyers are intimidated when sellers are present and tend to hurry through the house. Let the buyer be at ease, and let the agents do their job.
Last Updated on Wednesday, 17 February 2010 18:56
 
Market Factors to Selling PDF  | Print |  E-mail
Monday, 07 December 2009 21:44

Key Market Factors

How long does it take to sell a home?

There is no easy answer - some homes sell in a few days, others may take several months. 
Recognizing the key factors influencing a sale can give you significant control over market time.


The proper balance of these factors will expedite your sale:

LOCATION…
•    Location is the single greatest factor affecting value.
•    Neighborhood desirability is fundamental to a property’s fair market value.

COMPETITION…
•    Buyers compare your property against competing properties.
•    Buyers interpret value based on available properties.

TIMING…
•    The real estate market may reflect a seller’s market or a buyer’s market.
•    Market conditions cannot be manipulated; an individually tailored marketing plan must be developed accordingly.

CONDITION…
•    Property condition affects price and speed of sale.
•    Optimizing physical appearances and advance preparation for marketing maximizes value.

TERMS…
•    The more flexible the financing, the broader the market, the quicker the sale and the higher the price.
•    Terms structured to meet your objectives are important to successful marketing.

PRICE…
•    If the property is not properly priced, a sale may be delayed or even prevented.
Last Updated on Wednesday, 17 February 2010 18:11