Before selling, declutter and clean your home. Make necessary repairs and consider staging to make it more appealing. A fresh coat of paint and a well-maintained yard can also help.
Questions Home Sellers Ask
Home Inspection
Ordering a home inspection can help identify potential issues and give you a chance to fix them before listing. This can save time and prevent surprises during the buyer’s inspection.
Time to Sell
The time it takes to sell a home varies depending on factors like location, price, and market conditions. Your real estate agent can give you an estimate based on similar homes in your area.
Selling Price
Your agent will help determine the best price for your home based on factors like location, size, and condition. They’ll also consider comparable homes that have recently sold in your area.
Assessed vs. Market Value
Assessed value is used for tax purposes and may not reflect the true market value of your home. Market value is what a buyer is willing to pay and can be influenced by factors like supply and demand.
Questions Home Buyers Ask
First Step in Buying a Home
Start by getting pre-approved for a mortgage. This will help you understand your budget and show sellers you’re serious about buying.
Selling Before Buying
It depends on your financial situation and the housing market. Consult with a real estate professional to determine the best strategy for you.
Home Inspection
Yes, a home inspection is crucial to identify potential issues and ensure you’re making a sound investment.
Final Walk-Through
A final walk-through allows you to ensure the property’s condition hasn’t changed since your offer and that any agreed-upon repairs have been completed.
Earnest Money
Earnest money is a deposit made to show the seller you’re serious about buying. It’s typically held in an escrow account and applied towards your down payment at closing.
Screening Questions for Real Estate Agents
Neighborhood Knowledge
Choose an agent who’s familiar with the neighborhood you’re interested in. They’ll have valuable insights on local market trends and amenities.
Experience with Your Price Range
An agent experienced in your price range will better understand your needs and help you find the right home.
Part-Time or Full-Time Agent
Full-time agents are more likely to be available when you need them and have a deeper understanding of the market.
Real Estate License
Always verify an agent’s license to ensure they’re legally allowed to represent you in a real estate transaction.
Working with the Agent or Their Team
Clarify whether you’ll be working directly with the agent or a member of their team. This can impact communication and the level of service you receive.
Recommendation Network
An agent with a strong network can connect you with trusted professionals like mortgage brokers, inspectors, and contractors to help make your home buying or selling experience smoother.