Selling a home is Change!

So you have decided to pack the house and change addresses! You know deep down that time or events have motivated you to endure the worries and stresses, which this decision will create. Ah! But most know periodic change does the soul good. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions from Sellers in today's market.

How do find a Realtor?

1. Ask for a referral from friends, neighbors and co-workers. Get two or three names.
2. Reputation. Are good things said about these individuals regarding their Trustworthiness, Promptness, Experience in the business, Advanced certifications like GRI & CRS professional designations, and active full-time in real estate?
3. Interview them and decide on one who your gut level feels right.

How long does the Selling process take?

1. If your home is priced correctly for the current market and is in a clean, presentable condition at the time of listing the property, it could be in a "Sale Pending" status in the first week. That is the goal when I place a property on the market.

2. From "Sale Pending" to "Closing or Recordation of Deed", expect it to take anywhere from 30-days at the soonest to 60-days at the latest. I strongly suggest using a 45-day period to allow the buyer's lender to get the loan package completed and to the title company. If the buyer is offering all cash, not loan required, then expect to be out of your home in less than 30-days time.

When do I get my money?

Most real estate transactions are completed at a third party Escrow/Closing Agents office. They need to receive fully executed documents for both the Buyer and the Seller. The package will then be completed when the below items are fulfilled:
1. Upon receipt of funds either from the Buyer or Buyer's lender AND
2. Upon recordation of the deed at the local County Recorders office.

Should I consult an Attorney or CPA?

Real estate transactions are very complicated and involve binding legal contracts. Since real estate agents are not licensed to practice law or act as Certified Public Accountants, I strongly suggest to you if their are any questions which you need answers to, please contact these professionals as quickly as possible for expert advice.

Do I need to provide a Home Warranty?

Maybe! This question is best answered depending on your comfort level with warranties in general. Some people always purchase extended warranties and others never do. I suggest purchasing if the company offering the coverage will enforce coverage beginning at time of listing and transfer during ownership change. This way, you the seller, are covered for any covered items during the listing period and could reduce your exposure to a small deductible.

What if my home doesn't sell?

Experience has shown me that every home has a buyer. If your home is not selling, it is probably due to either condition of home and/or the price of home. Both are generally resolved by an adjustment of asking price. If it isn't selling, price is the BEST cure to make it happen. Remember: The first two weeks into a new listing is where the most activity and exposures to buyers will occur. Don't loose this valuable marketing time for yourself.

Scott Haanstad - Licensed Agent OR o
Direct Line: 541-400-3282 (DATA) r
scott@liveinthegorge.com