You must disclose certain material facts about your home that you are aware of when selling it. Not informing the eventual buyer of these matters can lead to litigation and financial penalties if the undisclosed information leads to problems later. Here is a list of situations you must reveal. Honesty is the best policy. So,… Read more »
The residential real estate market has been red hot across the country. Prices have pushed skyward as sellers receive multiple offers. Navigating these competing offers is tricky, and applicable laws vary from state to state. This article will not constitute legal advice, and you should consult an attorney during a transaction. But generally, here is… Read more »
Across the country, a shortage of houses for sale coupled with strong demand has led to homes selling mere days after going on the market. Often these houses receive multiple offers and sell well over the asking price. If you must sell your existing house before you can buy, you risk losing the house you… Read more »
When you sell your home, you may be subtracting the amount you owe on your mortgage from the sales price and counting the difference as the cash you’ll make from the deal. But it’s not quite that simple. Both the seller and buyer must pay certain closing costs from the sales proceeds. What the seller… Read more »
You’ve decided to sell your house. Should you move out before sellers come calling? You may not have a choice if you are relocating for a new job or in other situations, but if you do, is selling a vacant home a good idea? Advantages of selling a vacant home Showing a home you’ve already… Read more »
Selling a home can seem daunting. Making repairs, painting and keeping it clean for potential buyers sounds like a lot of work. Enter “iBuyers” — companies that make you an offer on your house without stepping foot in it. Sounds like the perfect solution, doesn’t it? Or perhaps too good to be true? Let’s look… Read more »
Most homeowners sell their houses to traditional buyers who plan to make the property their home. But investors also buy homes, and sometimes it may be advantageous to sell to one. What are the pros and cons of selling your home as investment property? Advantages to selling to an investor You may have purchased your… Read more »
It’s frustrating: You’ve had your house on the market for a few months. Other sellers are headed to closing, but you’ve yet to get an acceptable offer. Doubt and even a little fear are beginning to set in. Are you doing something wrong? What can you do differently? Here are 10 common reasons a house… Read more »
In residential real estate, the weekend open house for prospective buyers is as traditional as the “For Sale” sign in the yard. A broker open house is also a strong marketing tool. What is a broker’s open house? How can it help you sell your home? Comparing open house types With a traditional open house,… Read more »
The strategies and logistics of selling a second or vacation home are different from selling your primary residence. To successfully sell a vacation home, remember these key points. Hire a professional to sell a vacation home When selling a vacation home that’s far from your primary residence, it’s crucial to hire a professional real estate… Read more »
Movie theaters always show previews of upcoming films before the main feature. A similar strategy, the “coming soon” sign in the yard of a home about to be put up for sale, has become popular. Does this practice benefit the seller? What is a “coming soon” listing? Announcing that a home is “coming soon” is… Read more »
The lingering odor of cigarette smoke makes any house a tough sell. It will take longer to find a willing buyer and will likely bring a lower price. Unless, of course, the seller is up for the challenge of a floor-to-ceiling scrubbing. Here’s a step-by-step guide. Floors to ceilings. Unlike pet odors that are mostly… Read more »
You love your pets, but they definitely pose a challenge, especially when it comes to managing pet odors. Here’s a pet-owner’s handy guide to making those smells disappear. Keep your pet clean. Make sure dogs are washed and groomed regularly. Don’t let their natural body odor build up. Cats groom themselves, but both cats and… Read more »
A balcony or terrace is a great selling feature, especially appealing to prospective buyers who want a private outdoor space where they can relax. To maximize this selling point, dress it up to make it look its best. Clean it up. As with all staging, start by thoroughly cleaning the space. Sweep decking, wash any… Read more »
When flowerbeds become barren in the winter, it’s the perfect time to use potted plants to add much-needed curb appeal. Finding plants that can add interest and color to the front of your home while withstanding cold temperatures can be challenging. Here are a few winter favorites that will make your container gardens –and your… Read more »
Potted arrangements are a great way to add curb appeal — even during the summer when soaring temperatures can turn gorgeous potted plants into shriveled eyesores. When selecting plants for summer container gardens, look for varieties that can thrive in sun, heat, and potential drought. If multiple plants will be in the same container, they… Read more »
Spring is the perfect time to use container gardening to impress prospective buyers touring your home. Potted plants instantly add color and interest with beautiful blooms in just the right places. Here are a few top picks. Stock sounds ordinary, but these fragrant blooms are showstoppers. Available in many colors with either single or double… Read more »
Fall is a great time to use container gardens to enhance your home’s curb appeal. Many plants perform well in cool temperatures while offering beautiful color and texture. Here are a few top picks for gorgeous fall container gardens. Mums may seem an obvious choice for fall decoration, but don’t discount these favorites. They come… Read more »
Your house is on the market and your agent just called with great news. Buyers are interested in seeing your home. The not-so-great news? They want to come in less than half an hour and your house is a mess. Don’t miss out on a chance to sell your home. Use this quick and easy… Read more »
Painting is an essential part of successful home staging. In addition to making your home feel fresh and new, the right paint color will enhance your home’s appeal. It’s important to consider colors carefully — ideal colors ensure your space makes the best impression, while others may decrease your home’s chances with potential buyers. Choosing… Read more »
