Eight top Questions asked by Sellers

• “How can I be sure now is the right time to sell?”  For some home owners, the decision to sell at a particular time is necessitated due to job relocation or some other factor that makes the answer to this question an easy one.  One of the most important first steps any potential seller can take is to decide exactly what his or her own personal motivations for selling are.

• “How do I find out what market conditions are like in my area?”  After sellers know why they want to sell, the next step is to get a clear picture of the current local real estate market to determine whether factors are in favor of allowing them to achieve their goals.  Potential sellers can compile this information themselves by researching homes sales to find out what comparable homes are selling for, or they can talk to Korey Rosvold who can provide them with this information as well as current insights on the market.

•  “How much can I expect to get for my home?”  For the most part, pricing will depend on how much similar home in the area is selling for.  Remember though, each home is different.  The best price is the one that takes all of the properties advantages and disadvantages into account as well as the goals of the seller.  For instance, if the sellers absolutely must sell within a given time frame, they may need to set a slightly lower price than a similar home with owners who are in no rush and want to maximize their profit.

•  “How long will it take for my home to sell?”  Local real estate boards keep track of the average length of time most properties stay on the market in the area.  We advise prospective sellers to pay close attention to the time frames established in their listing agreement before they sign with any agent.  They should ask their agent how long most of his or her listings remain on the market, and what will happen if their home doesn’t sell within the prescribed time.  But beware of an agent who promises extra speedy results, they could be simply pricing too low just to get the sale quickly!

• “Can I save money by selling my home myself?”  Initially the idea of not having to pay a commission to an agent may be tempting to some sellers.  However, most homeowners have no idea the strain and the legalalities of selling their own home. How do you know if the offer presented to you is legal and binding and protective to you? More and more people are enjoying the benefit of using an agent to sell their home and deal with all the ins and outs of the real estate transaction. Korey Rosvold can help explain any issues and confussions to you in any contract every step of the way.  

            “Even if sellers choose to go it alone, I suggest they still talk with an agent they know and trust.  Many professionals will still offer to help with paperwork and marketing for home owners handling their own sales.  This way, if something unexpected does happen, the seller has already built a relationship with a professional who is ready to help.”

•  “What if there’s something wrong with my home?  Do I have to tell the buyer?”  It is always in the sellers best interest to disclose everything regarding the state of the property, in most cases it is illegal not to.  In many areas laws have been established to hold the seller accountable for home defects even if the seller wasn’t aware of the problem. Washington state has a 5 page seller's disclosure form that all sellers are required to fill out if they have lived in the home or know about the home.  The seller should always consider going above and beyond the law’s requirements for home inspections and disclosure.  This will make buyers more comfortable about buying your home, and in some cases, even paying more for it.

• “How can I find the right agent?”  Take time to interview each potential agent.  Look at the professionalism of his or her marketing materials and get a feel for how comfortable you feel talking with this person.  Don’t be afraid to ask for references.  You should feel confident that the agent you choose is a trustworthy and knowledgeable individual, working full-time and representing a solid and reputable agency, who will treat your best interests as paramount.  If you don’t, look for someone else.

• “What do I need to do to prepare my home for sale?”  Selling your home involves more than simply putting a sign in the front yard.  To maximize your home’s appeal to potential buyers, you may need to be willing to make some minor cosmetic changes or repair major problems.  Korey can help with a list of things and issues that should be addressed for your specific home as well as makeover strategies.