My New Blog

    A common mis-conception in selling real estate is that it is best to fix the home up as part of the negotiations.  The reasoning usually includes the following:

  - The home inspector is going to find it, or, he may not.  Let's  just wait and see.

  - I don't want to replace that worn out carpet (paint, siding, shingles, etc) because the buyer's may not like the color or style I pick out.

  - I've lived with it, so can the buyers.

   Believe it or not, I've heard all of the above.  Let's talk about it.  First, if you or your agent is aware of a defect with the home is has to be disclosed to any prospective buyers.  The second point is that almost every buyer uses an inspector.  I have seen buyers walk away from deals if they think the sellers are not being forthright.  They start to think about what else the sellers may be hiding.  Further, most contracts to buy homes in North Carolina include "Cost of Repair" clauses.  These state that if the repairs found by the inspector exceed a certain amount prescribed in the offer then the Buyers can demand to be released from the contract and get a full return of their earnest money. 

    Usually, the defect is obvious to the careful observer.  A common one is where the seals have failed on double-paned windows.  These are easy to see because the windows appear to be fogged up.  This is because moisture has made its way inside via the failed seal.  Two great reasons to get these fixed now is that it won't be a negative when prospective buyers are looking at it.  Also, you're most likely going to have to fix it anyway.  So, why not just do it now and reap the marketing benefit of a brand new window(s).

    The other argument against making improvements is that they new buyer may not like the color or style that you choose.  This is where the experience of a seasoned Realtor comes in.  They can help you make the right choice, and even recommend the most affordable suppliers and workmen.  GOURLEY REAL ESTATE, Inc. provides a professional decorator as part of our service.  She will help you with any selections that you may have to make in order to get your home sold for the most money in the least amount of time.

    The last objection, "I've lived with it".  A prospective buyer will just respond, "Yes, and I see why you are anxious to sell!"  Or: "You may have lived with it, but I don't have to!"

    The reality is, in most markets, and especially in this highly competitive Buyer's Market, the buyers don't stick around to haggle with you, they just go buy another home.  Think about it, when you go shopping for a car, or a home, what do you do when confronted with damaged or worn out features.  Sure, if the home is in a one-of-a-kind location, or offered at a highly discounted price, then you may get buyers regardless.  However, that is the rare exception.

     To get top dollar in the shortest time possible make your home SHINE.  Go to a model home and understand that is your competition.  Is it difficult to get a home sold these days?  Well, it certainly is more so than in years past.  The extra time, money, and effort into making your home rise above the others will help to make yours one of the ones that gets snapped up by some lucky buyer.

     I've been representing buyers and sellers in this area since 1996.  For more information on the service we offer give me a call at 919-788-9772.