In This Issue
A Move in the Making An Eye for Detail Be Sun Smart
We are pleased to present you with the latest issue of Life@Home. Delivered to home buyers, sellers and owners on a monthly basis, this electronic newsletter is designed to give you the real estate information that is important to you. In each issue, you will find practical tips and articles related to buying, selling or owning a home, as well as the latest news on real estate trends. We hope that you enjoy this issue of Life@Home. If we can be of any assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us.
A Move in the Making
Every move has its own personality. Some happen quickly. Others are years in the making. If you have some time to plan the sale of your home, here is a one-year time line for a smooth move.
1. Twelve Months Ahead - Start with two key consultations. Ask a real estate professional for some advice. See what she thinks the highlights and lowlights of your home. This will give you plenty of time to play up the good and fix the bad. Also, hire a home inspector. This professional will tell you what home systems need attention. For instance, if you need a new roof, you can decide whether to put one on yourself or reduce your asking price to compensate. Knowing such things a year in advance will let you save for repairs if necessary and give you ample time to arrange for the work.
2. Nine Months Ahead - Start clearing out your clutter. Going through closets, attics, garages and belongings takes time. Remember, the more you purge, the better your house will look and the less you will have to pack. If you give yourself enough time, you can make sure your unwanted items get to the right places (i.e. friends, relatives, charities, thrift shops) instead of the garbage.
3. Six Months Ahead - Turn your attention outside. Remember that curb appeal has a lot to do with what buyers think about your home. Updating landscaping can do a lot to boost first impressions. Starting now will give you time to research, plan and perhaps hire the right professionals.
4. Three Months Ahead - If you plan to paint your interior start now. A fresh coat of paint in warm, neutral tones can do wonders. Also, begin to ask for referrals for movers, mortgage companies, etc. Now is a good time to contact your agent again and talk about a plan for the final three months.
5. One Month Ahead - If you have prepared correctly, this last month should be less stressful. you can tie up loose ends and focus on the sale.
An Eye for Detail
Hiring a real estate professional to represent and market your property is a smart move. Your agent will likely review with you the different kinds of listing agreements of sales contracts and recommend the structure that would work best for your marketplace and property. But no matter which you choose, always look for these four parts in the agreement:
1. Timing - The duration of the agreement should be clearly stated. For instance, the contract may state that this agency has the right to represent your property 90 days, three months or six months.
Sunscreen is a must during the summer. Experts recommend a broad spectrum lotion, one that protects against UVA and UVB rays, with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 15 or higher. Apply lotion to dry skin at least 30 minutes before going in the sun. Use a waterproof version if you will be swimming and reapply as directed.2. Compensation - The fee structure is an important part of the listing agreement. It says what percentages are earned, who pays what, and when the commissions are paid, which is typically at the closing. These terms are negotiable and should be understood by all parties and clearly stated in the contract.
3. Cancellation - What happens if you are dissatisfied with your service and want to cancel your contract? The agreement should stipulate the steps for cancellation.
4. Disputes - The contract should spell out how disputes will be handled such as mediation, arbitration or litigation in court. The listing agreement is an important document in the sale of your home. Read all parts carefully. If you don't understand a section, ask your real estate professional or attorney for more information.
