Faq

FAQs on Selling Your Home

1. What improvements will help me sell my home? Start with the basics. Fix all minor mechanical issues (such as loose doorknobs and leaky plumbing), clean everything well, keep the yard maintained, and put fresh pine straw or mulch in the flower beds. Power wash decks and other surfaces if needed. For more information, ask us for more information on How to Prep Your House for Sale.
2. Should we sell before we buy another home? Check with your lender first to learn if this is an option. Ask yourself if you are willing and able to carry two mortgages and deal with the stress that comes from physically and financially maintaining two homes. Ask us to explain other options that might be available to you.
3. Should I sell my home myself? It will take longer, on average, to sell a home yourself. Myron and Carolyn as expericenced agents can lead you through the listing and selling process with ease. Aside from improving your quality of life during your family’s transition, we may help you net more money for your home. We know the market, proper pricing and how to achieve a faster sale.
4. Is it easier to sell a home that is vacant? You should only consider vacating your home before placing it on the market if your furnishings are poorly maintained or the environment is overly cluttered. A vacant home usually communicates a need to sell and weakens your negotiating position. If you home is vacant we would encourage you to stage it for the best financial results.
5. Should we hold an open house? Open houses usually draw prospects just beginning their home search. They are getting a feel for the market and are not usually ready to make a commitment, even if they love your home. Often the “visitors” are curious neighbors. However, if they are not ready they may know someone who is! In addition our professional marketing plan will offer many effective ways to sell your home.
6. How will I be kept informed of marketing progress to sell my home? This topic is often frustrating for sellers. Few real estate agents are excellent at communicating and keeping their sellers informed. Myron and Carolyn understand you want to have information on the status of your home’s marketing and any progress notes and we will establish a schedule to keep you updated. When you are selling your home, it is critical that you be kept well informed.
7. What issues should I disclose? The seller must disclose all pertinent and material facts about the home that are not easily seen. A good rule of thumb: if you are compelled to ask “should I disclose this?” – the answer is yes. The Seller’s Property Disclosure Statement must be filled out honestly and completely to help protect you.
8. Should I provide a home warranty? If your home is more than ten years old, then it may be a wise investment. Many companies offer warranties for $360 – $400. We can find you a great company to work with.
9. Will I have to pay closing costs? The seller is not obligated to pay closing costs, however it may be used as an item to negotiate. Closing costs are typically 2-2.5% of the buyer’s loan amount. Remember to focus on the net amount you receive, rather than the contract price.
10. After the closing, may we stay and rent our old home from the new owner until we are able to move into our new home? (We don’t want to have to move twice!) This option can only be explored once you find a buyer. We can discuss your needs and determine if the buyer is both willing and able to postpone their own move into the house.
11. When should I turn off the utilities? Call the utility companies to have them perform a final reading on the day the buyer takes possession. The buyer will need call to have the service transferred to their name.