Buyers
Choosing a real estate agent
Once you have decided what part of the world you want to live in, hire a reliable real estate agent. Thanks to technology, agents can work from just about anywhere. Agents that are members of the National Association of Realtors and their local board can access any property listing. Choose an agent you are comfortable speaking with and understands what you want. You can check out Florida agents through the Department of Business and Professional Regulation in Tallahassee either by calling or on the internet.
Benefits of home ownership
Historically, homeownership has been most people's best investment. Since we are not known to be a nation of savers, this is a good way to build tangible wealth. Even though we are in a tough time, there is a silver lining for buyers. Interest rates are still low and prices are going lower every day. No one knows how long this will last, but if you are in a position to buy and plan to be in the same place for a few years, this is the time to buy.
Evaluating property
If you are looking at several properties, it can get frustrating and confusing. Take a copy of the listing sheet and write on the back of each what you like and dislike about the property. Write down the condition and what repairs/upgrades will have to be made to meet your needs. Then you can go back and evaluate the pros and cons of each.
Sellers
Preparing your home through the eyes of a buyer
Let's face it. The way we live and the way we need to prepare our homes for sale are two different things.
Remember.....Clean, Clutter, Cost...the three C's.
Sparkling clean, that means everything i.e. in and under cabinets, refrigerator, closets, stove, windows, etc. Make sure your sidewalks are clear, your yard is free of anything not necessary for the maintenance of the house, and the front door is inviting. Plant some colorful flowers. First impressions are everything. If they don't like the outside, they may not look at the inside. Smells are important. You don't want any bad ones.
Update your home if possible. Prospects are looking for great kitchens and bathrooms. This doesn't mean necessarily top of the line appliances and fixtures. The updates should fit the house and the area. Ask your agent to take you to comparable homes that have sold in your price range in your area if possible as well as looking at the competition currently on the market. This will give you a good starting point.
Avoid color overload when preparing your home for sale. If you have bold colors everywhere, invest in a neutral paint and paint all rooms the same color. Buyers do not want to have to paint as soon as they move in.
Clutter...let's talk! Clutter makes the room look smaller. Pack up everything you are not using on a daily basis. Define each space and don't leave toys or pet beds in view during showings.
Not everyone is a pet lover. If possible, find a place for your pet(s) outside the home for showings.
The house has to be priced right for the market. There is so much inventory out there, you are not going to sell if the price is not in line.
What to do when you house is shown
If possible, leave for showings. This gives the prospect a chance to say what they like/dislike about the property. This not only helps us define their true wants and needs, it helps you because there may be something we can do to make it work. Prospects like to be able to look freely and if you are there, they don't feel comfortable doing so in most cases.
