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TIPS FOR SELLERS... |
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Place your home on the market as far in advance as possible of purchasing a new home. Time is money, so the sooner, the better.
Be sure that the exterior of your house is visually appealing so that potential buyers even driving down the street are attracted to the property and motivated to contact you or your selling agent.
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Now that you've attracted the potential buyer to your property, be sure that the interior of your house is up to the standards of the exterior
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Clean, Clean, Clean!!! Make sure that your windows, floors, carpet, and bathroom tiles are spotless.
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Remove any clutter and make sure that items are neatly stored.
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Add some fresh flowers, scented potpourri, or play some soothing music to create a welcoming environment.
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You don't need to make major cosmetic changes-the condition of the house should suggest that it has been properly maintained, regardless of how old the property may be.
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Find a real estate broker or agent who seems knowledgeable and credible. You will be working closely with him/her so you should make sure that he/she has a personal style that will suit well with your own.
Demand Experience: Selling a home is a large transaction with lots of rules and regulations so you need to be sure that your broker/agent is experienced in what he/she does.
Look for Commitment: Try finding a broker/agent who works full-time in the Real Estate profession.
Conduct Interviews: Get recommendations from friends, relatives, or neighbors regarding brokers/agents they have worked with. You can also search the Web, read through home magazines and newspapers to learn about brokers, agents, and their companies. The interview does not have to be a formal one-it is just your opportunity to meet or speak with a broker or an agent so that you can explain your needs, ask questions, and determine whether or not you feel comfortable dealing with him/her. Here are a list of questions you may want to ask a broker or agent before working with them:
- How long have you been in business?
- How familiar are you with this area?
- How many houses have you sold in this past year?
- What is your commission?
- How do you intend on marketing my property?
- How do you plan on organizing meetings with potential buyers?
- Can you provide me with any references?
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Set Your Listing Price. In order to set an appropriate listing price for your home, spend some time evaluating market conditions and financial factors. Your real estate broker/agent is a great resource, so talk with them to come up with an initial listing price. Do not be in a rush to sell your home-you will receive a fair market value in due time.
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Show Your House to Home Buyers: You should always allow a buyer's agent to show your house, even if it may not be very convenient for you. Your selling agent will usually put a lock box outside the house so that other agents can conveniently show your property to homebuyers.
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Signing the Settlement Papers: Be sure to read every document carefully before signing.
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