For Buyers and Sellers

Whether you are buying a house or selling property, I can help. Below are tips for both buyers and sellers. Please contact me with any questions at any time.


My Mission is Your Success, Where Your Success is My Inspiration…

 

Buying Info

5 Steps For Getting Ready To Buy

Step 1. Find a Local Lender You Can Talk To in Person
Local lenders understand your market and know of loan programs that might be beneficial to you.

Check with your lender on any local programs that might help with closing costs or in other ways. Even though the media have pronounced the 100-percent-financing option dead, this is not always the case. Check it out for yourself and then get preapproved for a loan so you know how much house you’re able to buy.

Step 2. Be Specific in the Area You Want To Live
Educate yourself. Familiarize yourself with the neighborhoods you’re interested in, the taxes and school districts. This not only helps you narrow down your search when you need to move fast, but also helps you figure out potential mortgage payments.
Step 3. Find an Agent Specializing in the Area You Want to Live
This will save you time and effort. Once you’ve identified an agent, trust him or her to do the job. Agents who are thriving in this challenging market have proven their worth. They have the resources and skills to help you find your next home.
Step 4. Don’t Shy Away From Houses That Need Some Work
Just because a house needs some paint or cosmetic fixes doesn’t mean it’s not a good buy. Most real estate agents have an address book full of trusted businesses they work with to help you fix up your new home. There’s an HUD program known as 203(k) that enables you to fold repair money into a primary mortgage; ask an agent in your market about the program.
Step 5. Be Prepared To Act
Sometimes the first home you see is the right one for you. Don’t discount it. Remember, good deals still go fast. Take advantage of the electronic tools your real estate agent has to offer. In many instances, real estate agents have access to better information than what you can find in a standard Internet search.

 

 

Selling Tips

Before Your Home Is Listed

It’s important to have your home in good showing condition before buyers start going through it. Here are some steps to take:

  • Touch up interior and exterior paint as needed.
  • Install new carpeting and flooring if it appears worn or dated.
  • Make sure the front is clean and spruced up – curb appeal will create a favorable first impression.
  • Trim bushes and plants as needed, and make sure the lawn is kept mowed and trimmed. In autumn, rake the leaves; in winter, keep the snow shoveled.
  • Keep the interior clean, decluttered and odor-free. Eliminate evidence of pets.
  • Minimize personal items such as family photos. You want buyers to see themselves living in the home.
  • Consider putting excess furniture and belongings in storage. Now’s the time to clean out the garage and basement and sell, give away or throw away items you don’t need anymore.
  • Consider having a pre-listing inspection performed. Buyers will be hiring professional inspectors; here’s your chance to address problems in advance.
  • Consider engaging a professional stager to give your home the right emotional appeal.


During the Listing Period

  • When potential buyers visit your home, either be absent or make yourselves as inconspicuous as possible
  • Have fresh flowers in the entryway. It makes for a friendly introduction into your home.
  • If offers are made that don’t match your hoped-for price, don’t reject them out of hand. Pay attention to your agent’s advice.
  • Consider dropping the price if several months go by with few or no offers. But if you and your agent have priced your home properly from the start, this shouldn’t be necessary.
  • Don’t get discouraged. In buyer’s markets, homes take longer to sell than during boom times. Your home will eventually sell; it’s a matter of your agent finding the right buyer for you.

Help Your Agent
You have the best chance of selling your home if you work closely with your agent. Make sure all showings are coordinated through him or her. If you have a brochure box, be sure to keep it filled.

If prospective buyers want to discuss your property or negotiate price or other terms, defer to your agent. He or she is the expert and can best handle all these details without emotion.