There are many questions and issues that are raised once you make the decision to sell your home. We've tried to include some good basic information here and we encourage you to contact us for more detailed responses to these and other questions that may arise.
Much of this information can also be found in our FREE REPORTS section. Be sure to check it out!
- How do I select the best realtor?
- What are the showing procedures once I list my home?
- What are the most effective marketing methods?
- How many improvements should I do?
- How can I sell my home at the best possible price?
- Should I be flexible with the asking price?
- How do I determine the best asking price for my home?
- Should I price my home higher than market value?
- Do I need to sell my current home before buying a new one?
- How long will it take to sell my house?
- When is the best time to list my home for sale?
- What accounts for a successful sale?
- How do I select a lawyer?
- Should I disclose any problems with my house to a buyer?
- How will I be reimbursed for prepaid property taxes or condo fees?
1. How do I select the best realtor?
This is one of the most important factors to consider. Many components comprise the selection process. The most important factors to consider are prior results and track record, experience, negotiating, and communication skills, an aggressive marketing approach, and industry rankings. Find out more about this in our FREE Report Choosing a Realtor.
2. What are the showing procedures once I list my home?
Other agents will start bringing their buyers to your home immediately. Your agent may arrange an open house for fellow agents and/or the public. Ensure your home is in a state of good repair and kept tidy and uncluttered while showings are taking place. Try your best not to be home during showings. Buyer's Agents are more effective when the seller is not at home. View our detailed checklist of showing procedures HERE.
3. What are the most effective marketing methods?
The more aggressive the marketing, the better chance you have to sell your home at a higher price. An aggressive agent will actively promote your home to a specific target market through proven successful methods such as contact with other agents, your neighbours and their own client base. Whereas a passive agent will install a For Sale sign on your lawn, place an ad in the newspaper and wait for something to happen. An aggressive agent makes it happen for you. More about this can be found in our Free Reports, 13 Critical Points to Consider When Selling Your Home, and our Marketing Report.
4. How many improvements should I do?
This depends on the current condition of your home. It should be in a state of good repair for it to sell at the best price. You will get the most return on your repair dollars by eliminating any major disrepairs such as leaky faucets and broken windows or fixtures, having excellent lighting, an uncluttered appearance, and freshly painted walls. Remember that many major improvements, such as bathroom or kitchen fixtures, are often items of personal taste and may not appeal to all potential buyers. We will be happy to do a FREE walkthrough of your home and make recommendations of what we feel will give you the best return. Our clients usually net between 3-10% more for their homes due to our showcasing skills. You can also get more information in our FREE REPORT, Showcasing Your Home.
5. How can I sell my home at the best possible price?
Choosing the right agent, pricing the home competitively, marketing it aggressively, negotiating competently, and keeping a tidy, uncluttered home during showings will ensure you achieve the best price. Find out more about this by ordering our FREE PRICING REPORT.
6. Should I be flexible with the asking price?
No, not if the home is priced at market value. Frequently, a well-priced home sells quickly, sometimes with multiple offers, resulting in a higher selling price. If the home is overpriced, or if the home has been on the market for a longer period of time, then yes, greater flexibility is expected by the buyer. It is during this critical negotiation period when it is essential to work with an agent who has developed strong, well-honed negotiation skills. It can make the difference of thousands of dollars for you. Dollars either made or lost.
7. How do I determine the best asking price for my home?
The asking price is based on facts: the condition and size of your home and recent sales of similar homes in your neighbourhood. An ethical real estate agent will help you interpret this information to determine your right asking price.
For a FREE HOME VALUE REPORT, with absolutely NO OBLIGATION, click HERE.
8. Should I price my home higher than market value?
Remember than an informed buyer is only willing to pay the fair market value. If you price it higher, fewer buyers will visit your home and they will be less inclined to present an offer, likely resulting in your home being on the market for a longer period of time. The longer a home stays on the market, the harder it is to sell, even after a price reduction, because it is considered a stale product.
Pricing a home at market value will result in many showings as soon as it is listed, increasing your chances of a buyer presenting an offer sooner rather than later. If you want the top-selling price, aim for making the fastest sale by pricing it as market value from the start. More facts about "Over Pricing" can be found in our FREE Pricing Report.
9. Do I need to sell my current home before buying a new one?
It depends on such factors as current market conditions and your level of comfort. Options for you to consider include a flexible closing clause in any offers or arranging a long closing (90+ days) to allow you sufficient time to sell or buy another home. A competent real estate agent will help you determine which course of action is best suited to your needs.
10. How long will it take to sell my house?
Many factors affect the time it takes to sell a house. Market conditions, competition, price, terms, condition, location, exposure, etc., all affect the timing. It is advisable to account for three to four months from the time you list your home to the time you move.
11. When is the best time to list my home for sale?
There is always a demand for well-priced homes in good condition regardless of market conditions or time of year. It is advisable to plan ahead and account for three to four months from the time you list your home to the time you move. So the best time to list you home is when you are ready to move.
12. What accounts for a successful sale?
A successful sale is attaining your top price and terms with the least amount of stress and inconveniences to you. A competent real estate agent will ensure you achieve this.
13. How do I select a lawyer?
Ask if the lawyer specialized in residential real estate. If they do, it is likely that they have staff who concentrate 100% on residential real estate who will be able to assist you with any matters that may arise. Real Estate agents will often be able to recommend a lawyer to their clients, as well.
14. Should I disclose any problems with my house to a buyer?
Absolutely! A seller has a legal responsibility to disclose any deficiencies about their home to the buyer. This includes issues such as leaks, roof/construction problems, termites, knob and tube wiring, appliances/fixtures included with the house, etc. Not doing so may render the deal null and void.
15. How will I be reimbursed for prepaid property taxes or condo fees?
Any adjustments will be calculated by your lawyer and reimbursed to you on closing.
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