My job as the listing agent is to market your property and then to manage the transaction to a successful settlement. The following answers some commonly asked questions.

Common Questions and Answers

Should we redecorate prior to putting our house on the market?

The big problem in major redecorating arises because it is very difficult to anticipate the tastes of strangers. Best to stick to fresh paint in very neutral colors and present a sparkling clean house without the redecorating expense.

Is it possible to "over improve"?

Yes. Your landscaping may be divine: you may have the only cabana and swimming pool in the neighborhood, but it may be difficult to sell a $160,000 home in an area of $130,000 homes. Consult me to determine if added improvement means added marketability.

Are fix up expenses tax deductible?

Yes. You can reduce your taxable capital gain by "fixing up", but only under strict guidelines. Check with your tax consultant for details.

What is a lockbox?

A lockbox is a universal metal container for your house key that is hung on the front door and can only be opened by a special key carried by licensed sales agents It provides access when the owner is away, thus assuring full exposure to prospective buyers.

Should I let anyone in to see the house?

If a prospective buyer calls or comes by unexpectedly without a broker, get their name and phone number. Do not show the home. Explain that it is not a convenient time. Call me so that the buyer can be qualified and identified prior to showing. This is for your benefit and protection.

If an offer is imminent, should we still show the home?

A property is either sold or available. There is no in between. However, if there is an accepted contract that contains a contingency and backup contracts are invited, then this must be made clear, and the house should be shown. Refer the selling agent to me for details.

Do certain geographical areas have unique home-selling requirements?

Yes. Home selling requirements vary from county to county. Investigate special taxes or other requirements applicable to the area in which you live.

Does the sale of a condominium or a property within a Homeowner's Association (HOA) require any special action?

The purchase offer for a condo sale or Homeowner's Association property will contain, in compliance with the law, a requirement that your furnish the buyer with certain disclosure information and documents. Ask me about condo and Homeowner's Association resale procedures in your area.

Do buyers ever offer more than the listing price?

Rarely but they do offer "above list" sometimes if they believe it makes their offer more acceptable than other competing offers. For the protection of all parties, it is best to include a separate statement signed by the buyers indicating the buyer's awareness of the list price and their reasons for the higher offer

What do you do if the property does not sell?

The first step is to go over carefully with me why the property has not sold. Usually price, and property condition are the key. Study and analyze what has sold in your area and at what price. Then relist the house after adjusting for shortcomings. Another option is to withdraw from the market arid rent until the market improves, or simultaneously offer for sale or rent.

When will yard sign be removed?

Placing a sign in the yard is always done by mutual agreement between listing broker and home seller. The law allows the sign to remain in the yard after contract ratification, even though "for sale" is changed to "sold" after contract acceptance.

If a buyer forfeits the deposit, who gets the money?

If the buyer fails to make full settlement, the deposited earnest money may be forfeited only after a release is signed by all parties. In the event of forfeiture, the deposit is divided equally between you and the real estate brokers. But not to exceed amount of commission, or according to the sales contract.

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