Should I sell or rent?
This can depend on your unique situation. I have worked with clients who have benefited by both options. Contact me, and we can come up with a plan.
Should I buy or sell first?
Both strategies have advantages and disadvantages depending on your unique situation. Contact me, and we can come up with a plan that works best for you.
How do I know if my asking price is fair?
I will be able to help you with this. I can look at the property's history and similar recent sales to help assess the market value of the property.
What should I do to prepare to sell?
First you probably need to change the way you think about your home. It is time for you to start thinking about your home as something you want to sell for the best profit you can, and not look at the situation emotionally.
Next you will need to take steps to make the home appeal to the widest audience possible. I can help you with this.
Should I repair and renovate before listing my house?
A home that is move-in ready appeals to a lot of home-buyers, and many are willing to pay more for the convenience. If you have the time and money to do this, it usually pays off in the purchase price.
How do I help my house show better?
Remember the two Ns: Keep it neat, and keep it neutral. Clean your house as though your mother in law is coming over with her white gloves on, and get rid of any clutter (including usual “hiding places” like closets, because buyers will be looking in there). This applies to inside your house and out.
Try to make your house a place that buyers can imagine themselves living in, and they won’t be able to if it is too obvious to them that you are actually the one living there.
What should I expect from an open house?
An open house is an opportunity for a lot of people to see your house on one day. Open houses can lead to further showings or in some cases. Offers. Sometimes they provide valuable information. For example, if nobody shows up and the weather is just fine, then it might be because your price is more than people are willing to pay.
Why do the buyers want an inspection?
A home inspection is an examination of the property to determine the overall condition. An inspector should checking all major components (roofs, ceilings, walls, floors, foundations, crawl spaces, attics, etc.) and systems (electrical, heating, plumbing, drainage, weather proofing, etc.).
Many buyers get a home inspection to help them anticipate whether a property will need significant improvements early on, and helps remove some of the unknowns.
Do I need a real estate lawyer?
Yes. Your real estate lawyer will need to see a copy of the accepted offer, your latest property tax and utility bills, all mortgage information, and any other property ownership documents. If you do not have a real estate lawyer, I can recommend one.
How long does it take to close?
Most closings are from 30-60 days from the date the offer was accepted. This can vary based on buyer and seller needs.
What is CVA?
A Current Value Assessment is how the City has valued a property for the purpose of calculating property tax. It may or may not represent the market value of the property.
What is SPIS?
A Seller Property Information Statement is an optional form that sellers can fill out where they provide certain information about the home, such as knowledge of any structural problems, or details on any upgrades.
What is title insurance?
Title insurance protects a buyer against loss in case the status of the title to the property is other than it has been represented.
What is an appraiser?
An appraiser is an impartial, independent third party who provides an objective opinion on the value of a specific property.