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EXTERIOR
A dry driveway is a photogenic driveway. Please avoid watering the driveway.
REMOVE THESE:
- Cars, boats, or other vehicles
- Trashcans/Recycle
- Children's toys
- Holiday decor
- Lawn & garden tools
- Rolling basketball hoops
MAKE SURE TO DO THESE:
- Remove cover from BBQ
- Turn on all inside/outside lights
- Mow the lawn
- Trim bushes, hedges, trees, etc.
- Rake up fallen leaves
- Place cushions on furniture
- Open patio umbrellas
INTERIOR
Add a vase of fresh flowers and a bowl of green apples, or cookbooks for a pop of color.
REMOVE THESE:
- Clutter from countertops
- Items on refrigerator doors
- Small appliances (blenders, etc.)
- Hanging dish towels
- Sponges, gloves, dish soap
- Paper Towels and rags
MAKE SURE TO DO THESE:
- Wipe down appliances
- Test all light bulbs
- Open & even out blinds & curtains
- Put away food
- Hide the trash/recycle
- Clean the sink
LIVING/DINING
Arrange furniture to highlight your fireplace or other unique features.
REMOVE THESE:
- Clutter from tables
- Family photographs
- Holiday decor
- Children's toys and video games
- TV remote controls
- Excess or damaged furniture
MAKE SURE TO DO THESE:
- Arrange pillows and cushions
- Fold and drape throw blankets
- Small room: Remove table leaf
- Large room: Add table leaf
- Open blinds & curtains & even out
- Test all light bulbs
BEDROOMS
Bedrooms look an feel best when they are light, airy and uncluttered.
REMOVE THESE:
- Clutter on nightstands
- Family photographs
- Children's toys
- Trashcans and hampers
- Clothing and shoes
- Excess or damaged furniture
MAKE SURE TO DO THESE:
- Arrange furniture
- Make the beds
- Fluff the decorative pillows
- Open blinds and curtains
- Hide jewelry boxes
- Test all light bulbs
BATHROOMS
Glass shower doors can sell a bathroom. Make sure they're sparkling.
REMOVE THESE:
- Clutter from countertops
- Soap, shampoo, shaving products
- Rolls of toilet paper
- Excess towels
- Dirty linens
- Plunger, toilet brush, etc.
MAKE SURE TO DO THESE:
- Put toilet seats down
- Clean the mirrors
- Clean the shower
- Clean the sinks
- Test all light bulbs
OTHER
What are some unique features that make your home stand out?
REMOVE THESE:
- Weapons, firearms, etc.
- Items that may be illegal
- All signs of pets
- Pool cleaning tools
- Knick-knacks
- Hobbies & collections
- Plug-ins from outlets
MAKE SURE TO DO THESE:
- Check all lights
- Turn off televisions
- Turn off ceiling fans
- Remove all holiday decor
- Vacuum and mop all floors
- Clean all countertops
- Show off floors & real estate
FSBOs and the Changing Commission Landscape: Why Partnering with an Agent Saves You More
Ohio: Steady Growth in 2024 and 2025
IDX information is provided exclusively for consumers’ personal, non-commercial use and that it may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed to be accurate. Listing information updated daily.
Selling your home is one of the most important financial decisions you’ll make. While selling on your own (FSBO) might seem like a way to save money, national statistics from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) prove otherwise: year after year, FSBO homes sell for an average of 9% less than homes listed with a professional agent.
That’s where I come in. My proven strategies are designed to help you not only avoid leaving money on the table but also maximize your home’s market potential. Here’s how I ensure my clients consistently outperform FSBO sellers:
1. Leveraging Maximum Market Exposure
The key to selling your home for top dollar is exposure. I don’t just list your home—I amplify its visibility across the MLS, syndicated real estate platforms, and targeted social media campaigns. This level of exposure brings more buyers and competition, resulting in higher offers.
With my approach, your home reaches buyers FSBO sellers simply can’t access.
2. Strategic Pricing for Higher Returns
Proper pricing is critical to achieving a successful sale. My data-driven pricing strategies balance market trends, buyer behavior, and your home’s unique value. FSBO sellers often rely on guesswork, emotional pricing, or automated online tools, which can undervalue their property.
NAR statistics show that homes sold with agents earn 9% more—and my track record proves it.
3. Expert Negotiation
Selling a home is about more than just finding a buyer—it’s about negotiating the best deal. I bring over 20 years of negotiation expertise, ensuring your interests are protected and your bottom line is maximized.
While FSBO sellers struggle with inexperience, I secure better terms and higher sale prices.
4. Buyer Confidence = Higher Offers
Homes listed with professional agents inspire buyer confidence, making buyers more willing to pay a premium. FSBO homes, however, often raise concerns about overlooked issues, incomplete disclosures, or unprofessional handling of the transaction.
I position your home as a reliable and attractive option for serious buyers.
5. Professional Marketing That Works
First impressions matter. I use high-quality photography, virtual tours, and professional staging to showcase your home’s best features. These details attract motivated buyers and create emotional connections that lead to stronger offers.
FSBO homes often lack these touches, resulting in fewer showings and lower sale prices.
6. Time Is Money
Selling a home requires a full-time commitment. From coordinating showings to following up with leads and handling complex paperwork, I manage every aspect of the process. FSBO sellers often lose time—and money—juggling these tasks on their own.
I streamline the process so you can focus on your next chapter while maximizing your profits.
7. Seamless, Stress-Free Transactions
Navigating the complexities of inspections, appraisals, and closing paperwork can be overwhelming. I’ve handled it all and know how to avoid costly mistakes that can derail a sale.
My experience ensures a smooth transaction, saving you time, stress, and money.
8. Targeted Buyer Outreach
I don’t wait for buyers to find your home—I actively seek them out. With a network of pre-qualified buyers and advanced targeting tools, I connect your home with the right audience.
This creates competition for your home, driving up the final sale price.
9. Proven Results Backed by Data
The NAR’s data shows the financial disadvantage of FSBO sales—and my results confirm it. Even after accounting for commissions, my clients consistently net more because I bring the expertise, marketing power, and negotiation skills that FSBO sellers can’t replicate.
Let’s Get You More for Your Home
The numbers don’t lie: homes listed with an agent consistently sell for more. My mission is to help you achieve a sale that exceeds your expectations and puts more money in your pocket.
Ready to see how my strategies can work for you? Let’s start the conversation today!
Custom Market Evaluation
FSBOs and the Changing Commission Landscape: Why Partnering with an Agent Saves You More
Ohio: Steady Growth in 2024 and 2025
IDX information is provided exclusively for consumers’ personal, non-commercial use and that it may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed to be accurate. Listing information updated daily.
1. How long have you been in real estate?
Answer: I’ve been a top-producing Realtor since 2003, with over 20 years of experience in the Northeast Ohio market. I’ve guided countless families through successful transactions, no matter the market conditions.
2. How well do you know the local market?
Answer: Born and raised in Cleveland, I have an intimate understanding of Northeast Ohio’s neighborhoods, market trends, and property values. My insights ensure sellers get accurate pricing and a strategic plan tailored to their area.
3. What’s your track record for selling homes in my area?
Answer: My track record is proven through years of consistent results. I specialize in Cleveland and surrounding communities, and I have successfully closed homes at or above asking price while minimizing time on the market.
1. How long have you been in real estate?
Answer: I’ve been a top-producing Realtor since 2003, with over 20 years of experience in the Northeast Ohio market. I’ve guided countless families through successful transactions, no matter the market conditions.
2. How well do you know the local market?
Answer: Born and raised in Cleveland, I have an intimate understanding of Northeast Ohio’s neighborhoods, market trends, and property values. My insights ensure sellers get accurate pricing and a strategic plan tailored to their area.
3. What’s your track record for selling homes in my area?
Answer: My track record is proven through years of consistent results. I specialize in Cleveland and surrounding communities, and I have successfully closed homes at or above asking price while minimizing time on the market.
4. What is your marketing strategy for selling homes?
Answer: My marketing strategy includes professional photography, compelling property descriptions, syndication across over 100 platforms, and targeted digital ads. I also tap into social media, email campaigns, and my extensive buyer database to maximize exposure.
5. How will you determine the right listing price for my home?
Answer: Pricing is a blend of art and science. I conduct a thorough market analysis using comparable sales, current market trends, and your home’s unique features. My goal is to price competitively to attract buyers while ensuring maximum return.
6. What do you recommend I do to prepare my home for sale?
Answer: During our walkthrough, I provide customized staging tips and recommendations for minor updates or repairs that can significantly boost appeal and value. I focus on cost-effective changes that yield the highest return.
7. How will you keep me informed during the selling process?
Answer: Communication is key. I provide regular updates through your preferred method—whether by phone, text, or email—and send weekly market reports to ensure you’re informed every step of the way.
8. What sets you apart from other agents?
Answer: My deep local expertise, innovative marketing, and personalized service make me stand out. I treat every client’s home as if it were my own, ensuring your goals are met with professionalism and care.
9. Can you share testimonials from past clients?
Answer: Absolutely! My clients consistently praise my dedication, market knowledge, and ability to make the selling process seamless. I’m happy to share reviews and references upon request.
10. How do you handle negotiations?
Answer: Negotiations are one of my strengths. I work tirelessly to protect your best interests, ensuring you get the best price and terms. My years of experience give me the confidence and skill to handle even the toughest negotiations.
11. What is your commission rate?
Answer: My commission is competitive and reflects the comprehensive service I provide. I’m confident the value I bring through expert pricing, marketing, and negotiation far exceeds the cost of my services.
12. How long does it typically take you to sell a home?
Answer: While timing depends on the market, my average days on market are well below the area average, thanks to strategic pricing and proactive marketing efforts.
13. Do you offer help with staging or preparing my home for sale?
Answer: Yes, I provide tailored staging advice and a network of trusted professionals for services like cleaning, repairs, and photography. My goal is to present your home in its best light.
14. How will you handle multiple offers?
Answer: Multiple offers are exciting but can be overwhelming. I create a detailed comparison of each offer, considering price, terms, and contingencies, to help you make an informed decision.
15. Why should I choose you as my Realtor?
Answer: Selling your home is more than just a transaction—it’s a significant milestone. I bring unmatched expertise, a proven track record, and a genuine commitment to your goals. Together, we’ll achieve the results you deserve.
16. What are your guarantees, if any?
Answer: I offer an Easy Exit Guarantee, which means you’re never locked into a long-term contract. If at any point you’re not satisfied with my service, you can cancel our agreement with no penalties or hard feelings. My goal is to earn your trust every day, not rely on a contract to keep you.
17. Do you have other options available for selling my home, like investor offers?
Answer: Yes! At Epique Realty, we offer a service similar to other companies that connects sellers with investors. This provides you with several options, including cash offers, as-is sales, and quick closing solutions. If this approach aligns with your goals, I’ll be happy to discuss it further to determine if it’s the right fit for your situation.
FSBOs and the Changing Commission Landscape: Why Partnering with an Agent Saves You More
Ohio: Steady Growth in 2024 and 2025
IDX information is provided exclusively for consumers’ personal, non-commercial use and that it may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed to be accurate. Listing information updated daily.
Pros
- Save on Commission Fees
- You avoid paying a listing agent's commission, which is typically 5-6% of the sale price.
- Full Control Over the Process
- You make all the decisions about pricing, marketing, showings, and negotiations without external influence.
- Direct Communication with Buyers
- FSBO allows you to interact directly with buyers, which can speed up communication and negotiations.
- Emotional Connection to Your Home
- As the homeowner, you know the property better than anyone and can highlight its unique features to potential buyers.
- Flexibility with Timing
- You can control the timeline for listing, showings, and closing without needing to coordinate with an agent.
- Potential Savings in a Seller’s Market
- In a hot market, homes can sell quickly with minimal marketing, making FSBO more appealing.
Selling by owner can work well for some homeowners, especially those with real estate experience or a straightforward sale. However, weighing the potential risks and benefits is crucial to decide if FSBO is the right choice for your situation.
Cons
- Homes Sell for Less
- Studies show FSBO homes sell for an average of 9% less than agent-assisted sales, often negating commission savings.
- Lack of Market Expertise
- Pricing your home accurately without access to professional tools like the MLS or comparative market analysis (CMA) can lead to overpricing or underpricing.
- Limited Marketing Reach
- Without access to the MLS and an agent’s network, your property may not reach as many potential buyers.
- Time-Consuming
- Selling a home involves managing showings, marketing, buyer inquiries, paperwork, and negotiations, which can feel like a full-time job.
- Emotional Attachment
- Handling buyer feedback or lowball offers personally can be stressful and lead to emotional decision-making.
- Legal Risks and Paperwork
- Real estate transactions require contracts, disclosures, and legal compliance. Mistakes can lead to costly disputes or delays.
- Buyers May Be Wary
- Some buyers prefer working with an agent and may hesitate to engage with FSBO sellers due to concerns about the process or lack of representation.
- Negotiation Challenges
- Without an experienced negotiator, you may struggle to handle contingencies, inspection findings, or buyer demands effectively.
- Out-of-Pocket Expenses
- Costs for professional photography, marketing, staging, and hiring a real estate attorney can add up quickly.
- Longer Time on the Market
- FSBO homes often take longer to sell, especially if marketing and pricing strategies aren’t competitive.
FSBOs and the Changing Commission Landscape: Why Partnering with an Agent Saves You More
Ohio: Steady Growth in 2024 and 2025
IDX information is provided exclusively for consumers’ personal, non-commercial use and that it may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed to be accurate. Listing information updated daily.
FSBOs and the Changing Commission Landscape: Why Partnering with an Agent Saves You More
Selling your home as a For Sale By Owner (FSBO) is often an appealing choice for homeowners looking to avoid paying real estate commissions. After all, the idea of saving thousands of dollars in fees can feel like a win. However, the real estate landscape shifted on August 24th, bringing changes to commission laws designed to add transparency to the process—and, ironically, making it even clearer why partnering with a professional agent remains a wise decision.
Here’s what has changed, how it impacts you as a seller, and why working with a real estate agent could save you money in the long run.
The New Rules on Commissions
Recent changes to real estate commission laws require more transparency regarding how commissions are disclosed and negotiated. As of August 24th, buyers and sellers are better informed about how agents get paid, often debunking misconceptions about excessive costs. These changes aim to make the process clearer for everyone, but they also emphasize the value that a knowledgeable agent brings to the table—particularly when it comes to negotiation and pricing strategies.
While FSBO sellers often aim to save on commissions, studies show that this upfront "savings" can cost more in the end. Here's why.
FSBO Homes Sell for Less: The Numbers Don’t Lie
According to research from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), FSBO homes sell for an average of 9% less than homes listed with an agent. That’s a staggering difference when you consider the potential equity you could lose. For example:
- FSBO Sale: A home priced at $300,000 may sell for $273,000 without professional representation.
- Agent-Assisted Sale: Even after paying a 5-6% commission, you could walk away with a higher net profit.
The reality is that agents have the tools, market knowledge, and negotiation skills to secure top dollar for your property—far more than you might achieve on your own.
Why FSBO is Understandable—but Risky Without a Strategy
Selling your home yourself makes sense in certain situations. Maybe you’ve already found a buyer, or you’re confident in your ability to handle the complexities of the sale. But it’s essential to have a backup strategy to ensure success if things don’t go as planned.
Here’s where FSBO sellers often struggle:
- Accurate Pricing: Without access to comprehensive market data, it’s easy to overprice or underprice your home.
- Marketing Reach: Agents have access to MLS listings and extensive networks to showcase your home to qualified buyers.
- Negotiation Expertise: Real estate transactions involve multiple parties, contracts, and legalities—an agent ensures your interests are protected.
Adding Value with an Agent: A Winning Partnership
If you’re considering FSBO, think of an agent not as an expense but as an investment in maximizing your home’s value. The key is finding a real estate professional who can complement your efforts, stepping in to assist when needed.
Here’s how partnering with an agent adds value:
- Comprehensive Marketing: Your home gets maximum exposure to the right buyers.
- Expert Staging Advice: An agent can suggest improvements or staging tips to increase your home's appeal.
- Negotiation Power: Agents are trained negotiators who can secure the best possible price for your home.
Have a Strategy for Success
Choosing FSBO doesn’t have to mean going it alone. Have a plan in place to evaluate your progress, and be ready to pivot if necessary. Many FSBO sellers start strong but eventually turn to an agent when the process becomes overwhelming or results fall short. By partnering with an agent early—even in an advisory role—you can set yourself up for a smoother, more profitable sale.
Bottom Line: Saving Money Is About Net Profit, Not Just Commissions
The August 24th commission changes highlight one undeniable truth: transparency in real estate empowers sellers to make informed decisions. But skipping an agent to "save" on commission could cost you far more in the long run when your home sells for less than its true market value.
If you’re planning to sell FSBO, that’s understandable—but make sure you have a strategy in place. When the time comes to maximize your home's value, a real estate professional can be your greatest ally.
Ready to discuss your strategy or learn more about how I can help? Let’s chat!
FSBOs and the Changing Commission Landscape: Why Partnering with an Agent Saves You More
Ohio: Steady Growth in 2024 and 2025
IDX information is provided exclusively for consumers’ personal, non-commercial use and that it may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed to be accurate. Listing information updated daily.
Here are 30 Great Reasons to Live in Cleveland!
1. Affordable Cost of Living: Cleveland offers a lower cost of living compared to many major U.S. cities, making it easier to afford housing, groceries, and other essentials.
2. Thriving Food Scene: With a diverse array of restaurants, including celebrity chef Michael Symon's establishments, Cleveland is a haven for food lovers.
3. Rock & Roll Hall of Fame: Home to the iconic museum that celebrates the history of rock music and its artists.
4. Cleveland Metroparks: Known as the “Emerald Necklace,” this network of parks offers beautiful green spaces, trails, and outdoor activities.
5. Lake Erie: Enjoy waterfront activities like boating, fishing, and beaches along the Great Lake.
6. World-Class Healthcare: The Cleveland Clinic and University Hospitals are renowned institutions, providing some of the best healthcare in the country.
7. Cultural Institutions: The city is home to the Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland Orchestra, and Playhouse Square, the second-largest performing arts center in the U.S.
8. Sports Town: Cleveland loves its sports, with major teams like the Cleveland Browns (NFL), Cleveland Cavaliers (NBA), and Cleveland Guardians (MLB).
9. Rich History: Explore historical neighborhoods like Tremont and Ohio City, full of Victorian homes, churches, and cobblestone streets.
10. Job Opportunities: A strong job market in industries such as healthcare, technology, manufacturing, and finance.
11. Vibrant Arts Scene: Galleries, street art, and local artists thrive, with events like the Cleveland International Film Festival.
12. Public Transportation: The RTA provides convenient bus and rail service throughout the city and surrounding areas.
13. Festivals and Events: Enjoy events like the Cleveland International Film Festival, IngenuityFest, and Parade the Circle.
14. Great Local Breweries: The city has a growing craft beer scene with popular spots like Great Lakes Brewing Company.
15. Diverse Neighborhoods: Each neighborhood has its own unique vibe, from the hipster cool of Ohio City to the historic charm of Little Italy.
16. Excellent Education Options: With numerous public and private schools, as well as institutions like Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland offers strong educational opportunities.
17. Music Scene: From indie bands to classical music, Cleveland's live music venues like the Agora Theatre and Grog Shop keep the city rocking.
18. Access to Nature: Proximity to the Cuyahoga Valley National Park offers hiking, biking, and stunning landscapes.
19. Innovative Tech Scene: Cleveland’s tech industry is growing, especially in health tech and biotech.
20. Friendly Community: Midwestern hospitality is alive and well, with friendly, welcoming residents.
21. Historic Architecture: From old warehouses converted into lofts to stunning Gothic and Victorian buildings, the city’s architecture is beautiful.
22. Food Markets: The West Side Market is a historic public market offering fresh produce, meats, and unique local foods.
23. Proximity to Other Cities: It's conveniently located within driving distance of cities like Pittsburgh, Columbus, and Detroit.
24. Seasons: Experience all four seasons with beautiful falls, snowy winters, fresh springs, and warm summers.
25. Affordable Real Estate: Whether you’re renting or buying, Cleveland’s housing market is more affordable than many other big cities.
26. Growing Entertainment Scene: New bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues are popping up all the time.
27. Green Initiatives: The city is focusing on sustainability with numerous green initiatives, including bike lanes and eco-friendly public transport.
28. Quirky Attractions: Unique spots like the A Christmas Story House and the Cleveland Arcade are fun, offbeat places to visit.
29. Strong Sense of Community: The neighborhoods often host local events, farmers' markets, and festivals that bring residents together.
30. Resilient Spirit: Known for its grit and resilience, Clevelanders are proud of their city’s comeback story and continue to build a vibrant future.
Cleveland is a city with a rich culture, strong community, and endless opportunities for entertainment, making it a great place to live for all generations!
FSBOs and the Changing Commission Landscape: Why Partnering with an Agent Saves You More
Ohio: Steady Growth in 2024 and 2025
IDX information is provided exclusively for consumers’ personal, non-commercial use and that it may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed to be accurate. Listing information updated daily.
November 2024
FSBOs and the Changing Commission Landscape: Why Partnering with an Agent Saves You More
Ohio: Steady Growth in 2024 and 2025
Mortgage Calculator
IDX information is provided exclusively for consumers’ personal, non-commercial use and that it may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed to be accurate. Listing information updated daily.
September Market Update 2024
FSBOs and the Changing Commission Landscape: Why Partnering with an Agent Saves You More
Ohio: Steady Growth in 2024 and 2025
Mortgage Calculator
IDX information is provided exclusively for consumers’ personal, non-commercial use and that it may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed to be accurate. Listing information updated daily.
I am a full service, full time REALTOR® dedicated to my clients' successes. I act as a fiduciary partner with my clients carefully analyzing needs, listening to their goals and guiding them toward the best possible outcomes.
What I WILL do:
- Carefully analyze your individual needs, actively listen to understand your motivations.
- Guide you and provide you with the most up to date and accurate information to help you make your most informed decisions.
- Keep you apprised of your options, protect your rights and inform you of your obligations.
- Make myself available for your needs instead of spending my time chasing after new business.
- Work with you through the various steps and obstacles of the purchasing process to ensure all parties have met their contractual obligations and are released from further warranties and claims.
What I WON’T do:
- Push for any action that doesn’t meet the outcome that you desire or sit well with you. All decisions are yours to make. I’m here to guide and inform and ultimately – listen to YOU.
- Pacify you. I don’t want you to settle, and I don’t want you to miss an opportunity. Straightforward is the best business practice.
- Disappear after the sale. My job doesn’t end when the sold sign goes up. I am here for any questions you have, now or years into the future.
Steps To Purchasing Your Home
SELECT AN AGENT
To start your home-buying journey, it’s important to hire a real estate agent. With expertise in the real estate market and process, an agent serves as a trusted source of information to help you make informed decisions. There are countless brokerages and agents to choose from, so the challenge isn’t just finding an agent, but finding the right agent for you. Follow these tips to help make sure you hire an agent who best fits your needs.
Research the Options
Do some investigating! You can learn a lot about a real estate agent with a little online research. Check out their website, social media accounts and online reviews. Ask friends and family members if they recommend an agent they’ve enjoyed working with.
Interview and Ask the Right Questions
Interview multiple agents before selecting the one. This allows you to gauge their style, experience and whether or not your personalities work well together. Make sure to ask questions about what to expect during the home-buying process, and find out how often – and via what methods – they’ll be available for you to contact. Ask how long they’ve been in real estate, what areas they sell and if this is their main job. Don’t assume experience goes with age or that the agent isn’t a part timer with a full time commitment elsewhere.
GET PREAPPROVED
The next step is to get preapproved for a mortgage. Preapproval for a loan provides insight into how much house you can afford. Here are reasons why getting preapproved is so important and can accelerate the path toward homeownership.
It Allows Homebuyers to Know Their Limits
Being aware and respectful of a budget saves time and prevents prospective homebuyers from daydreaming about out-of-budget homes. The less ambiguous homebuyers are about what they may be able to afford, the more efficient the home search will be. Having a mortgage professional review your credit, income and other financial liabilities will give you the advantage of knowing what you may be able to comfortably afford. Your mortgage professional will issue a preapproval letter to you and, armed with that, you can work with your agent to make sure the homes they show you are within your budget.”
It Opens Doors – Literally
When a home is listed, ready, willing and able buyers are looking at it in person. Those who are preapproved and able to purchase today. Appointments are scheduled to accomodate qualified prospective buyers. The homeowner has in most cases, gone to great length to tidy up the house, remove the pets and kids and figured out another plan for dinner to be out of the house while prospective buyers are looking. As a professional courtesy, agents aren’t filling up limited showing timeframes with unqualified buyers. In very limited circumstances a home may be shown regardless of qualification status such as during open houses or through a shared recorded tour. Agents and homeowners will not entertain an offer, even in writing, from anyone not already preapproved so it makes sense they would not entertain showings of buyers not yet qualified.
It Shows Sellers the Homebuyer is Serious
The real estate market is a volatile, competitive space. Having a pre-qualification or preapproval letter in hand lets the seller know you mean business and you can confidently make a purchase of their home. It’s not uncommon in this market for sellers and their real estate agents to insist on seeing a preapproval letter prior to showing the home.
It Helps Homebuyers Know How Much to Save
Prepare for success by planning and goal setting. By being organized and reasonable, homebuyers may avoid unnecessary roadblocks on the path to homeownership. In running through the numbers with your mortgage professional, you’ll know exactly where you stand financially in preparation for this big decision. Understanding how much money you’ll need to bring to closing, including down payment and closing costs, will help you better manage your spending and helps plot a course to help you achieve your goal of homeownership.
SEARCH FOR HOMES
After determining your budget, it’s time to begin searching for homes. Be realistic by identifying your wants versus your needs before beginning your search.
What may seem like the start of an exciting adventure can surely become exhausting if you’re not prepared. With a bit of planning and legwork, you’ll be sure to find a home that fits your needs in no time.
- Define your wants and needs vs. needs.
- Communicate with your agent and others helping your or involved in your purchase.
- Act quickly and decisively from making time to view, to making decisions.
- Don't be too picky. Refer back to your list of must-haves and remember that no property is perfect.
MAKE AN OFFER
Once you find a home you love, your agent will prepare to make an offer based on the price and terms you choose. Including an offer letter helps distinguish yourself from other candidates in some instances. Quickly and decisively, any information should be obtained and considered through county and public records as well as any specifics that you are independently relying on to make this decision to purchase your home.
Key Components of Your Offer
- Property legal description and all conveyances
- Whether or not the offer is a secondary
- Purchase offer price including deposit, loan conditions and seller concessions
- Inspection period contingency election of various home inspection types
- Prorations withheld from selling including charges/escrows to both parties
- Explanation of the title provided
- Escalation terms if applicable
OFFER ACCEPTANCE
Negotiating:
I take the ethical responsibility of fairly negotiating contractual terms very seriously. It's my job to find a win-win agreement that is beneficial to my clients and responsible for all parties involved. You may have to work through multiple offers before ratifying the one you judge to be most suitable to you and as your REALTOR®, I guarantee a thorough and objective assessment of each offer to help you make the right choice.
Initial Agreement and Deposit: A signed offer is a legal arrangement between a purchaser and seller. Laws vary state to state but in order to be legally binding, the contract must be signed by all parties. Most of the time consideration is offered such as a $1,000 or a 1% good faith offering and is held in the closing agent’s escrow account pending the fulfillment of conditions or contingencies to the effective agreement.
Written Records of Everything: For clarity, it is extremely useful to transcribe all verbal agreements and discussions including counter offers and addendums and convert them to written agreements to be signed by all parties. I’ll assist you in drafting all paperwork for your sale and make sure that you have copies of everything.
Sticking to the Schedule: Now that you have your purchase agreement, you have a timeline of dates that will be met by all parties that I and the other agent, if there is one, will coordinate and make sure you’re aware of and are met in time. Meeting every requirement on time ensures a smoother flow of negotiations and also ensures that each party involved is not in breech of their obligations. During the process I will keep you constantly updated so you will always be prepared for the next steps.
ESCROW, INSPECTIONS AND APPRAISALS
Most buyers will have the property inspected by a licensed property inspector within the time frame that was agreed upon in the effective contract to purchase. Some buyers will have several different inspectors inspect the property, if they wish to obtain professional opinions from inspectors who specialize in a specific area (roof, HVAC, structure). If the agreement is conditional upon financing, then the property will be appraised by a licensed appraiser to determine the value for the lending institution via third party. This is done so that the lending institution can confirm their investment in your property is accurate. A buyer of a commercial property may also have a complete environmental audit performed and/or soil test, if required by the lending institution
The Closing Agent: A title company will be selected as the closing agent, whose job is to examine and insure clear title to real estate. After researching the complete recorded history of the property, they will certify that the title is free and clear of encumbrances (mortgages, leases, restrictions and liens) by the date of closing; and 2) all new encumbrances are duly included in the title.
Contingencies: These are conditions that must be met in order to continue forward with the binding agreement. A buyer will usually include a contingency stating they will continue forward after a home inspector inspects the property and they accept the condition. Other contingencies may be financing and insurance, review of certain documents pertaining to the bylaws or association of the property, a review of the title report, property disclosures and possibly more inspections and reviews.
Final Negotiations: Depending on the outcome of any of these mentioned contingencies, one of three things may happen. Either each milestone is successfully closed and the contingencies are removed in writing, bringing you a step closer to your closing; or the buyer, after reviewing, requests a renegotiation of price or other terms in the agreement; or they may for some reason decide to release from the agreement subject to their rights to do so.
Respond objectively: How do you respond objectively and fairly when a seller appears unreasonable? This is when a REALTOR® can make a real difference in the outcome of the transaction. I guarantee my expertise and title commitment to every client, no matter the situation or personal opinion on the matter.
Loan Approval and Appraisal: As your REALTOR® I will have verified your preapproval before you even enter into an Agreement and be sure you understand your loan terms so that there are NO surprises. In addition, I'll keep you advised of area purchase prices and values that may affect this home's value. When obtaining a loan, an appraiser will review your property and verify that the sales price is appropriate for the collateral that is being purchased.
CLOSE OF ESCROW
It’s here and it means it’s almost time for congratulations, but not just yet. There are some loose ends to tie up.
Final Walk-Through: More a formality, the walk through takes place within a few days before the closing. You will visit the property to verify all is in working order, everything is just the same as it was the day you viewed the property last and that there are no items, major damage or appliances missing.
Be Prepared for Last Minute Surprises: I am ready to assist you should any unforeseen glitch pop up even at this last stage. If something at the property breaks down or the loan doesn’t pull through on time, there’s no need to worry. I know how to efficiently and effectively handle any issues in a stress-free manner.
Cancel Home Services and Utilities: Not before, but once the property has transferred, it’s time to call utilities to put them into your name within a day or two of the property being transferred.
Closing: On closing day, parties will sign their respective documents to complete the sale of the property. Closing in this case simply means signing day. The property will still need to be transferred at the county recorder’s office before it is officially sold and transferred which is usually the following day.
The closing agent will furnish all parties with a settlement statement summarizing the details of the financial transactions including charges and credits to each side of the transaction.
IDX information is provided exclusively for consumers’ personal, non-commercial use and that it may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed to be accurate. Listing information updated daily.