Six Common Real Estate Mistakes

Buying and selling real estate in the market today is certainly NOT for sissies! The competition is steep, and the stakes are high. Making small mistakes can end up costing you thousands of dollars.

Be on the look-out for issues, such as:

1) Not Getting the Price Right: Your first line of defense is to hire a home appraiser who can accurately gauge the worth of a property. This service might cost you a few hundred dollars, but it is an investment that can, in the long run, save you money.

2) Overlooking "Pretty Is As Pretty Does": Tidy things up! Before you put a property on the market, be sure that everything is well-tended and looking its picture-perfect best.

3) Hiding Problems from the Buyer: Be up front from the get-go. Disclose any problems—in writing—so there will be no cause for dispute or litigation after the sale goes through.

4) Wrecking Your Credit at the Last Minute: Home buying and selling doesn't happen overnight. Be mindful of other purchases made during the process, such as buying a new car or missing credit card payments. Remember a pre-approval does not guarantee a finalized mortgage.

5) The Trap of Bidding Wars: Buying property can be an emotional process. Therefore, make sure you have an experienced agent in your corner who can advocate and negotiate the best deal on your behalf.

6) Not Taking the Inspection Seriously: Many buyers and sellers don't put enough credence in this step of the process. Take advantage of the home inspection and leverage the results to drive the price in your favor.

In the end, be mindful and proactive. Knowledge is power! To read more about each factor listed above, link HERE

Source Material: "6 Real Estate Mistakes That May Cost You" by Adam Verwymeren (Published 10/22/14 via FOX News) 

11 Good Reasons to List Property During the Holidays

1. People who look for a home during the holidays are more serious buyers! 

2. Serious buyers have fewer houses to choose from during the holidays and less competition means more money for you!

3. Since the supply of listings will dramatically increase in January, there will be less demand for your particular home! Less demand means less money for you!

@Big Stock Photo

4. Houses show better when decorated for the holidays!

5. Buyers are more emotional during the holidays, so they are more likely to pay your price!

6. Buyers have more time to look for a home during the holidays than they do during a working week!

7. Some people must buy before the end of the year for tax reasons!

8. January is traditionally the month for employees to begin new jobs. Since transferees cannot wait until Spring to buy, you must be on the market now to capture that market!

9. You can still be on the market, but you have the option to restrict showings during the six or seven days during the holidays!

10. You can sell now for more money and we will provide for a delayed closing or extended occupancy until early next year!

11. By selling now, you may have an opportunity to be a non-contingent buyer during the Spring, when many more houses are on the market for less money! This will allow you to sell high and buy low!