How should I prepare for showings and open houses? Your house should be ready to show at all times. Make sure it is kept clean and clutter-free. And, those last minute touches before someone comes to look at your home can make all the difference:
• Turn on all the lights, even during the daytime, including outside entrance, closet, basement, and attic lights. Open all the drapes and blinds.
• Turn off the television, stereo, and radio (easy listening music is OK).
• On cold days, light a fire. If not in season, make sure the fireplace is clean.
• Put pets in a fenced yard. Better still, ask friends to look after them. Some people may be allergic, others may be afraid of animals. Clear any pet odors.
• Clean the kitchen and bathrooms. Leave windows and mirrors sparkling.
• Set out fresh flowers, hang decorative hand towels in the bathroom, and place an attractive tablecloth on the dining room table.
• If possible, leave! Some buyers are uncomfortable when the owner is in the house. In their hurry to get away, they may miss important features, or fail to ask important questions. If you must remain, be courteous, but try not to make conversation. The buyer's Realtor knows what the buyer is looking for. He or she can discuss features and answer questions.
Monday, August 30, 2010
Friday, August 20, 2010
Inspections & Appraisals
Inspections:
Buying a home is probably the biggest single investment you will make. A home inspection prior to making an offer will protect you and your investment.
A qualified home inspector will give your house a thorough examination, checking the heating and cooling system, plumbing and electrical systems, the roof, attic, walls, ceilings, floors, windows, doors, foundation, basement, and visible structures of the home.
The inspector will point out the need for major repairs, identify areas that may need attention in the near future, and explain what maintenance will be necessary to keep the house in good shape. But, it is not all negative. Most inspectors are more than happy to tell you about the home's good qualities as well.
Home inspections are relatively inexpensive considering the size of the investment that you are about to make. Many people consider this a small price to pay for peace of mind.
Your Royal LePage REALTOR® can provide you with a list of reputable, qualified home inspectors in your area.
Appraisals:
An appraisal is a report containing an estimate of the value of the property. Appraisals are conducted for the purpose of mortgage lending by certified appraisers. The appraisal should not be confused with the home inspection or the market analysis.
Buying a home is probably the biggest single investment you will make. A home inspection prior to making an offer will protect you and your investment.
A qualified home inspector will give your house a thorough examination, checking the heating and cooling system, plumbing and electrical systems, the roof, attic, walls, ceilings, floors, windows, doors, foundation, basement, and visible structures of the home.
The inspector will point out the need for major repairs, identify areas that may need attention in the near future, and explain what maintenance will be necessary to keep the house in good shape. But, it is not all negative. Most inspectors are more than happy to tell you about the home's good qualities as well.
Home inspections are relatively inexpensive considering the size of the investment that you are about to make. Many people consider this a small price to pay for peace of mind.
Your Royal LePage REALTOR® can provide you with a list of reputable, qualified home inspectors in your area.
Appraisals:
An appraisal is a report containing an estimate of the value of the property. Appraisals are conducted for the purpose of mortgage lending by certified appraisers. The appraisal should not be confused with the home inspection or the market analysis.
Monday, August 16, 2010
The Importance of Pricing
Why is listing my property at market value so important?
A realistic competitive price means:
1. Your property will sell faster. People don't bother looking at over-priced homes.
2. Your home doesn't lose its "marketability."
3. Offers are higher when a property is closer to market value.
4. A well-priced property can generate competing offers.
5. Realtors will be more willing to present your property to buyers (and be more enthusiastic when they do so).
A realistic competitive price means:
1. Your property will sell faster. People don't bother looking at over-priced homes.
2. Your home doesn't lose its "marketability."
3. Offers are higher when a property is closer to market value.
4. A well-priced property can generate competing offers.
5. Realtors will be more willing to present your property to buyers (and be more enthusiastic when they do so).
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