Thinking of selling your home in KY?
There are several things you will encounter during the process. If it is your first time-USE A REALTOR-and listen to the REALTOR. It can be a daunting task and expectations are normally high but be realistic!
– Not every buyer who comes into your home will want to buy it! Needs and Wants are different for everyone, sometimes it is not a fit for the potential buyer, so do not expect an offer from your first viewing.
-Stage the home as if it is a model home. Take down every photo with people in it!! Do not forget this detail. Make it a home the buyers can consider their next home, not your house they visited. I find myself looking at the photos wondering if I know anyone (instead of viewing the home). De-clutter! go with the bare minimum on furniture and appliances. Too many kitchen gadgets clutter the one room that most people congregate in…The Kitchen! Clean out closets, sheds, garages, have a yard sale! Anything to make it more appealing. Paint rooms that need it, it is the best return on investment dollar for dollar.
-When you get an offer BE REALISTIC! Unless you have multiple offers you will not get a full price offer. Most move in ready homes get an offer of 95% of asking price if the agent is knowledgeable. Some HGTV happy buyers think they can steal homes like the non-reality shows from California. Our market is completely different-our homes are not OVER VALUED.
-Once you come to an agreement it is not a done deal yet. Inspections are next!
-Inspections….everything from Radon, Lead Paint, Chimney, Sewer, Septic, HVAC (heating and cooling), electric, plumbing, and a full home inspection are options for the buyer (and you when you find the next one). Wood destroying Pest inspections are requirements for FHA and VA loans. If your didn’t disclose or didn’t know of a problem prior to the inspections, the buyer can ask you to fix, repair, or replace items that are “broken, dangerous, or missing.” Always use a contractor and keep receipts for the closing.
-Home warranty- These are aftermarket warranty providers who in all aspects remove you from some liability. When the new owner moves in SOMETHING always breaks. I personally believe the mechanical systems get used to a family and when a new family uses it differently it breaks. If some house system breaks or fails they call the home warranty company, not you! With a small “deductible or trip fee” they will make the repairs including parts. They will not replace the roof or AC but make it operational.
Appraisal- An opinion of value from a licensed appraiser ordered by the buyer’s lender. Buyer agents and seller agents CAN NOT discuss the appraisal with the Appraiser.
Closing!- Transfer of title and property possession. Your REALTOR will coordinate the occupancy with you and the buyers
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