How do I choose an agent?
When selecting an agent, the best source may be your family
and friends. Many may have sold a property in the past and can
refer
you to
an
agent
they found to be capable. Selling a home is a complex transaction, so experience
should be a consideration. Also consider agents who work for larger companies,
as they tend to offer more extensive training.
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What are the costs involved?
Fees vary depending on the type of property as well as what is negotiated
in the sale. Your Realtor® can provide an estimated closing statement
to
give you
an estimate of what is to be paid as part of the sale. Some costs include:
- Lender fees
- Escrow fees
- Home inspection
- Appraisal
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What are the steps involved in selling my home?
Selling your home involves many steps, from consultation to pricing, marketing
to escrow. View our Seller's Process for details.
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How are buyers attracted to my property?
You will work with your listing agent to develop a marketing plan and attract
as many potential buyers as possible. Methods include:
- Yard Sign
- Newspaper Advertising
- Internet
- Magazines
- Open House
- ... and much more
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What factors can influence the price of my home?
You want your home to sell for the highest price possible, but also in
a timely fashion. Here are some factors that influence the price of your
home:
- Current real estate market conditions
- The expertise and market knowledge of your real estate representative
- Hard facts such lot size, square footage and condition of your home
- Desirability factors, including location, special amenities and property attributes
- Selling and listing price of comparable homes in the area
- A sophisticated real estate marketing plan
- Your level of motivation
Conditions that do not affect the price of your home
- The profit you wish to make from the sale
- The amount of money spent on improvements
- The original price you paid for your home
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How do I negotiate?
Pricing your property with a 'cushion' for negotiation can be costly if it
pushes the price above the fair market value range. To begin the negotiating
process, you need interested Buyers. If overpriced, the number of Buyers that
see the property is reduced, so the likelihood of an acceptable offer is also
reduced. The best approach is to price a home just within the market value
range. This allows room for negotiations, without sacrificing exposure.
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What are the dangers if I overprice?
When a property is overpriced, windows of opportunity are missed. Broker and
buyer interest is at its highest when a property is initially placed on
the market. But if the property is priced above realistic market value, the
excitement and number of showings are greatly reduced. Later, it may be
necessary to adjust the price below market value to compete with new, competitively
priced listings.
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What is the best approach to pricing my home?
The best approach is to price a home just within the market value range.
This allows room for negotiation, without sacrificing exposure. Make no
mistake; we want you to get the best possible price for your property. However,
when a home is priced too high for the market this may:
- Attract lookers, not legitimate buyers
- Imply you aren't motivated to sell
- Reduce the number of showings
- Help competitive listings look better
- Cause financing issues for the buyer if the property doesn't appraise at the higher price
- Ultimately force you to drop the price below market value in order to sell
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What is my role in the selling process?
No one has a more important role in the home selling process than you.
Here are some ways your participation can contribute to a successful sale:
- Maintain the property
- Ensure the property is easily accessible for showings
- Communicate - let your agent know how to contact you
- Remove or lock up valuables
- Secure pets
- Limit conversations with buyers/agents about price
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