Trim bushes and branches so they don’t block windows or architectural details. Set a pot of bright flowers (or a small evergreen in winter) on your porch or front walkway. Install new, matching locks and knobs on your front door. Repair any cracks or holes in the driveway, and clean oil spots with degreaser and a steel brush. Edge the...Continue reading
Before Putting Your Home up for Sale
Here are a few items to take care of before listing your home. This can make the sale process quicker and easier in the long run. Consider a pre-sale home inspection. An inspector will be able to give you a good indication of the trouble areas that will stand out to potential buyers, and you’ll be...Continue reading
What to Disclose Amid Multiple Offers?
Question: When a listing agent has received multiple offers, what can or can’t be disclosed to a buyer’s agent? Does the REALTORS® Code of Ethics say listing agents can’t disclose the details of the other offers unless all parties involved are given the same information? Answer: Article 1 and its Standards of Practice provide guidance on multiple...Continue reading
Tips for Pricing Your Home
Consider comparables. What have other homes in your neighborhood sold for recently? How do they compare to yours in terms of size, upkeep, and amenities? Consider competition. How many other houses are for sale in your area? Are you competing against new homes? Consider your contingencies. Do you have special concerns that would affect the price...Continue reading
Seven Reasons to Work With a REALTOR®
REALTORS® aren’t just agents. They’re professional members of the National Association of REALTORS® and subscribe to its strict code of ethics. This is the REALTOR® difference for home buyers: Ethical treatment. Every REALTOR® must adhere to a strict code of ethics, which is based on professionalism and protection of the public. As a REALTOR®’s client, you...Continue reading
Questions to Ask When Choosing a REALTOR®
How long have you been in residential real estate? Is it your full-time job? Like most professions, experience is no guarantee of skill. But much of real estate is learned on the job. Do you have any designations or certifications? Real estate professionals have to take additional specialized training in order to obtain these distinctions....Continue reading
Ten Ways to Prepare for Homeownership
Talk to mortgage brokers. Many first-time home buyers don’t take the time to get prequalified. They also often don’t take the time to shop around to find the best mortgage for their particular situation. It’s important to ask plenty of questions and make sure you understand the home loan process completely. Be ready to move....Continue reading
Home Buying in Six Steps
The home-buying process can seem daunting to potential homebuyers, but a qualified real estate professional who understands the entire process can help ease many of these worries. 1. Get Ready for Home Ownership Build a good credit history Get mortgage pre-approval Find out what type of mortgages you quality for Consider hiring an attorney to...Continue reading