Your Questions Answered
Won't I save Money If I Sell My Home Privately?
You may, but not likely. The National Association of Realtor
statistics show that most sellers end up with more money through
the assistance of an agent. You also need to consider the complexities
of a real estate transaction. Without proper assistance, you
could waste a lot of your valuable time and money with no results,
and worse, spend a fortune fixing problems after the fact. Real
estate agents not only achieve the highest sale price possible,
but also ensure your interests are protected.
Should I Consider a Discount Broker?
Certainly, but read the fine print very carefully and understand
the services provided. Pay particular attention to the fee being
offered to cooperating agents. If this is lower than the generally
accepted rate, you aren't likely to see many buyers touring your
home. You may pay a reduced fee, but you may also achieve a lower
sale price, which will have lost you money in the end. That said,
real estate fees are negotiable and you should discuss them with
your agent. You may be very pleasantly surprised to find what
is offered on a full service basis.
Do I Need an Agent to Help Me Buy a Home?
Absolutely. Why try to do this yourself when expert assistance
is readily available at no cost to you. The buying process has
become increasingly complex and homes are often sold long before
signs are installed on lawns and advertisements are published.
Become a client of a specific agent who will constantly monitor
the market for you and guide you through the entire buying process.
Why Not Work With Several Agents to Buy a Home?
Many people don't realize that all agents have access to the
same MLS database of homes for sale. Seeking the assistance of
more than one agent, will not give you more choices of homes.
Decide on the agent you would like to work with and become their
client. This is formalized through a buyer agency agreement ensuring
you will receive the level of service you require.
My Home Hasn't Sold. Should I Find Another Agent?
Probably not. Assuming that your agent has invested a lot of
time, money and effort into selling your home, you need to consider
the likelihood that the asking price is simply too high. This
is by far the most common reason a home is not selling.
What is the Best Time of Year to Sell?
Traditionally, spring has been the most active market, however
this has changed over recent years. In large urban markets like
ours, we find less and less difference between seasons. Certain
months like January, July and August tend to have less homes
available for sale, but this can work to your advantage.
Should I Renovate Before I Sell My Home?
Seek the advice of your agent before you undertake any major
projects. Many home improvements are for personal enjoyment only
and don't add value to the home. Your agent can advise you on
which improvements will bolster the sale price. You may be surprised
to find that suggestions are limited to simple low cost changes.
Should I Have a Home Inspection Prior to Purchase?
We strongly recommend the services of a professional home inspector
prior to final purchase. Even if you are very experienced in
home construction and mechanical systems, a thorough home inspection
may very well reveal problems missed during the tour of a home.
These inspections take several hours, are very thorough and well
worth the $300-$500 cost. We call this cheap insurance for a
very major purchase!
Where Do I Find the Best Financing Options?
Your agent can be of great assistance. Mortgage financing has
become a highly competitive field with many lenders and products
on the market. Look beyond your personal bank. Your agent can
recommend the assistance of a mortgage broker who can shop the
entire lending market on your behalf-they may even negotiate
a better rate for you from your own bank. There is no charge
for this service.
...But I Still Have Questions!
Do you have a question that is not covered here? We would be
pleased to share our expertise with you. Contact us for a rapid
reply. |
