Seller Tips

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF JANUARY APPLIANCE SALES

Princeton Town Topics – Let’s Talk Real Estate – January 7, 2015

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF JANUARY APPLIANCE SALES

Brand-new appliances are the crowning jewels of any home, and they’re a major selling point for many buyers. If you’re planning on selling your home in 2015, January is a great time to consider upgrading your appliances. That’s because January is traditionally the month when appliances go on sale, and you can find great deals on both 2014 and 2015 models. Here are some tips:

– Before heading out to your local big box store, look online for coupon codes that could make your purchase even more budget-friendly.

– Be sure to choose neutral finishes and features with a broad appeal. Models that save water or electric are popular with all buyers. With washers and dryers, think of your target buyer — while a small capacity might work well for empty-nesters, a family will appreciate — and need — a large capacity.

– Establish a special place to keep all your paperwork together; being able to provide all the warranty info and user manuals for appliances is a nice touch that can help buyers perceive your home as one that’s been well cared for. You might even consider keeping the stickers on washers and dryers as indications of how new they are.

GOT MOLD?

Princeton Town Topics – Let’s Talk Real Estate – August 13, 2014

GOT MOLD?

When Alexander Fleming discovered that a certain type of mold produced penicillin, he was understandably thrilled. But for the rest of us, mold spores are often a cause of illness, not a cure. At any given moment, millions of spores are floating through the air, and unless you’re super-sensitive to them, they’re pretty much harmless. But once they land on a damp surface and start growing, that’s when the problems begin.

Fixing mold problems once they become severe can be extremely costly, and because mold often grows behind walls and in other obscure places, it can be difficult to detect on your own. The best way to make sure a property is free of mold is to hire an inspection company to conduct a complete evaluation. In addition to taking samples from the structure itself, an inspector will valuate air quality and measure for the presence of spores.

If you’re buying a home, hiring a mold inspector can help ensure your new dream home is free of potentially harmful spores and determine if mold remediation is needed. And if you’re selling, having an inspection shows your home is healthy and habitable can be a real selling point to many buyers.

Next week, we’ll look at how to hire a mold inspector.

MOVING DAY: HIRING A MOVER

Princeton Town Topics – Let’s Talk Real Estate – August 6, 2014

MOVING DAY: HIRING A MOVER

Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, moving can be a hassle. While some people choose the DIY route, others prefer to hire some muscle to get the job done. If you fall into the latter group, here are some tips to help you hire the best movers for your needs:

* Ask for referrals. Ask for references from your friends, coworkers, neighbors — even that sweaty guy at the gym. Word-of-mouth referrals are still one of the most reliable recommendations you can get.
* Look online. Don’t just look for moving companies; look for reviews to get an idea of how they stack up.
* Get several estimates — ideally four or five — and make sure they’re all quoting the same services. Ask for detailed estimates so you can compare apples to apples.
* Ask about add-on costs, like additional packing supplies or having to carry items up or down stairs.
* Ask how much insurance will cost and what the coverage limits are. Insurance coverage is based on weight and out-of-state moves typically carry a higher cost-per-pound.

4 WAYS SELLERS CAN SABOTAGE A SALE

Princeton Town Topics – Let’s Talk Real Estate – July 9, 2014

4 WAYS SELLERS CAN SABOTAGE A SALE

After years of sluggish sales, the real estate market is finally beginning to turn around, but that still doesn’t mean your sale will move quickly and without any hassles. You still need to begin working with a good agent early in the sales process to get the best price and close fast. Yet many sellers make these four mistakes during the sales process that can wind up costing them big in terms of price and time:

– Believing your property is worth more than it is. Many homeowners have strong attachments to their homes, but when it’s time to set a price, you need to be objective. Rely on your agent’s experience to set a realistic price.

– Hanging around during a showing. Even the friendliest seller can make potential buyers nervous. A buyer wants to feel free to explore and make comments without your input or your presence.

– Neglecting to clean and declutter. In order for your home to compete, get top dollar and sell quickly, you need to keep it “buyer ready” at all times.

– Holding out for more money at the last minute. The best offer is not always the highest offer. Again, rely on your agent’s guidance when considering whether an offer is fair.

THE SALES PRICE

Princeton Town Topics – Let’s Talk Real Estate – April 23, 2014

THE SALES PRICE

There are often disagreements between the buyer and seller about what is included in the sales price of a home. Careful drafting of the paperwork can help you avoid future disputes.

The following definitions may help. Real property is land and any permanent attachments, such as buildings, landscaping and fences. Personal property consists of movable possessions, such as furniture and clothing. A fixture is defined as an item of personal property that has become part of the real property by virtue of becoming permanently attached, such as a new sink, a spa, or a chandelier.

The principal area of dispute about what is included usually concerns fixtures. Do not assume curtains, satellite discs, antennas or fireplace equipment convey with the house. Make it very clear in writing what does and does not convey with the property. If you are specific about every item that may be questionable, you will greatly reduce the chances of a dispute after the settlement.

SELLING YOUR HOME?

Princeton Town Topics – Let’s Talk Real Estate – April 9, 2014

SELLING YOUR HOME?

Selling your home means a move to another phase of your life, and that can be pretty exciting. To make sure the sales process is as smooth as possible, Use these tips to make sure you’re ready:

– Fill out disclosure forms. Your Realtor® will be able to provide you with these forms, which inform potential buyers about specific defects in the home.

– Make a list of upgrades. Did you have a roof replaced a few years ago? Add a tankless water heater or energy-efficient windows? Even a small luxury item like a heated towel bar is worth noting. Whenever possible, attach invoices to show proof.

– Likewise, if you’ve had any major remodeling or additions to your home, obtain copies of the permits to prove the upgrades are legal.

– Find your property survey and latest tax bill.

– Gather past utility bills to give buyers a true idea of what monthly expenses they might encounter.

– Finally, make a list of quick, inexpensive upgrades you can do now so your home shows better.

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