Home Seller
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I hire a real estate agent?
An experienced agent can lead you through the listing and selling process with ease. We track the market and make sure that your home is listed for an accurate amount that draws interest but still helps you sell for a strong price. Many homeowners think they know how much their house is worth using online sites, but emotions may cloud the perspective (behavioral economists coined this phenomenon, the Endowment Effect). By working with a Realtor®, you can develop an accurate, unbiased and realistic listing price. On the flip side of this – sometimes homeowners err on the wrong side of the value equation and drastically undervalue their homes. A competent and ethical Realtor® can really help owners maximize their sale price in these scenarios.
What improvements will help me sell my home?
Start with the basics. Fix all minor mechanical issues (such as loose doorknobs and leaky plumbing), clean everything well, keep the yard maintained, and put fresh mulch in the flower beds. Power wash decks and other surfaces if needed. For more information, view (and print) our How to Prepare Your Home For Sale checklist.
Should we sell before we buy another home?
Check with a lender first to learn if this is an option. Ask yourself if you are willing and able to carry two mortgages and deal with the stress that comes from physically and financially maintaining two homes. An experienced agent should be able to guide you to a good decision.
Is it easier to sell a home that is vacant?
You should only consider vacating your home before placing it on the market if your furnishings are poorly maintained or the environment is overly cluttered. A vacant home usually communicates a need to sell and weakens your negotiating position.
Should we hold an open house?
Open houses may make you feel good, since people are stopping by to see your home, but they aren't always the best method for producing a sale. Often the “visitors” are curious neighbors. Our professional marketing plan will offer more effective ways to sell your home, and with Covid-19 safety, we want to limit exposure in your home.
How will I be kept informed of marketing progress to sell my home?
This topic is often frustrating for sellers. Few real estate agents are excellent at communicating and keeping their sellers informed. If you want to have information on the status of your home’s marketing and any progress notes, we will establish that schedule together. When you are selling your home, it is critical that you be kept well informed.
What issues should I disclose?
The seller must disclose all pertinent facts about the home that are not easily seen. A good rule of thumb: if you are compelled to ask “should I disclose this?” – the answer is yes. The Seller’s Property Disclosure Statement must be filled out honestly and completely to help protect you.
Should I provide a home warranty?
If your home is more than ten years old, then it may be a wise investment. Many companies offer warranties for $300 – $400. Your real estate agent can help you with the process.
Will I have to pay closing costs?
The seller is not obligated to pay closing costs. However, it may be advantageous if you have a qualified buyer who does not have liquid assets for these costs. Closing costs are typically 2-2.5% of the buyer’s loan amount. Remember to focus on the net amount you receive, rather than the contract price.
After the closing, may we stay and rent our old home from the new owner until we are able to move into our new home?
This option can be explored once you find a buyer. We can discuss your needs determine if the buyer is both willing and able to postpone their own move into the house.
When should I turn off the utilities?
Call the utility companies to have them perform a final reading on the day the buyer takes possession. The buyer will need call to have the service transferred to their name.
