Pomp and Circumstance in the Real Estate World

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Boy! HGTV has set some pretty high standards for sellers, buyers and Realtors. Our expectations of the perfectly staged home, the immaculate house cleaning on an hours notice with the picture-perfect set of toddler triplets who live in a seemingly storefront bubble is what we have grown to expect.  However, that’s not the average person’s reality, now is it?

Often, we catch people rushing to make dinner for their families, interrupting visits with families, attending sick loved ones (including the furry sort). Timing is not often perfect, and life happens. As sellers we often wait for those buyers who are running late with their Realtors as well. Usually, there is a reason..we are showing on an average 15 – 30 listings before the buyers can make a decision. There are issues with buyers as well, mobility issues, children in tow or parent’s tagging along.  Patience is a virtue in the real estate business.

As Realtors we want you to focus on what is important as you are looking at a home, or prepping your home for sale. Prepare for your appointment, look over these Home-Buyer FAQ’s.

Focus on structural and functional details, imagine how furniture will fit in a room, research property taxes and flood zones. A little less time sitting on furniture, looking at baby pictures and let’s give this family their home back, for now!

Sellers, we have a goal, to make a sale. Get ready to sell. If it’s not perfect it doesn’t have to be upside down. If it is, reschedule.A Typical Showing Appointment

Yes, I’ve seen some sites while showing property, some have impressed me, some have annoyed me, and some have taken my breath away, (positively and negatively).  I’m a Realtor, but more, I’m human and I understand how people live and care for the things they value or don’t value. It takes all kinds of people to make the world go ’round and if you really want to get hung up on all that, there’s lots of reality tv shows you can watch!

As for my customers, they will be taken care of and prepared for their showing appointments and their listing presentations, as well as they can, but… we may be late from time to time.

Categories: For Buyers, For Sellers

Should You Sell BEFORE the Home-Buyer Tax Credit Ends?

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If you are thinking of selling your home.. and you believe it could be a candidate for a first time home buyer…and you want to move up… do not miss your opportunity! the 2010 Tax-credit for first time buyers, along with other first time home-buyer monies are about to come to an end. When that happens, it may be some time before you can expose your home again to the numbers of people that are buying right now!

The deadline for a first time buyer to be in contract is April 30th. The deadline for that buyer to close is June 30th. that leaves you about 2 months now to get your house on the market and get it sold!  If you are thinking of moving up.. do it now!! The chances of selling your home after these two months are decreasing every day! The economists are not optimistic on what will happen with no credit and tightening home-buyer qualification processes. Don’t delay. Click here for a FREE HOME VALUATION today!

This is what happened this week.. a first time home buyer came to me in search of a home..under $110,000. (In my experience most of these buyers are purchasing homes under $150,000 and using down-payment assistance programs.) The buyer came to me pre-qualified (which can take weeks or months for some buyers who have credit issues or verification issues). Within a few days we had “virtually” previewed these homes and after feedback from me on many that I had already seen with other first time home-buyers, we set out to see homes that would work for these buyers.Make a Statement

Granted,.. in Tallahassee, it is RARE to find a property under $110,000 that is is great shape,.. and “woo’s” the buyers. We found that property. It had been on the market just 17 days.. and probably did not sell because the pictures did not do it justice on the MLS. What a thrill, and the buyers saw it near the end of their search, after seeing other properties that needed much work. Getting a home ready to sell makes all the difference in a quick sale and a tired, unseen listing?

This contract went well, buyer and seller negotiated with the help of their REALTORS what I feel like is a fair transaction, no one having an advantage over another and we are on our way with the steps that follow.

We will use Tallahassee Lender’s Consortium for available down-payment assistance funds because I recognized that these buyers qualify based on their income for the use of these funds. We negotiated for a portion of closing costs to be paid by the seller and the buyer’s could not be more appreciative to have this purchase opportunity. using these funds will enable them to keep their down-payment money in their pockets for furnishings, for a roof replacement reserve, (upon my advice), and moving expenses.

We are on our way! I am thrilled for my first time home-buyers!

Buyers, if you want to know where to begin.. take a look at these 9 Steps To home Ownership and make an appointment today to meet with me to plan your next move! Register for your FREE Buying Guide!

Categories: For Sellers, Real Estate Advice

Sellers: Does It Shine, or Is It Dull and Dirty?

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In a market where there is a large supply of homes, what sets your home apart from the others? What will make your home more appealing, and what will bring a higher sales price?  Today’s buyers are shopping for three things: The best priced home, the most affordable monthly payment and financing, and the home in the best condition. Few buyers have money to make changes or repairs. Consult a REALTOR for the best pricing strategy..and don’t fudge by “testing” the market..you will waste valuable time. Few loan programs allow hold-backs for repairs, so having your home in great shape is key in selling quickly.Clean, Organize and Refresh

Here are 8 budget-minded projects to consider when preparing your home for sale:

1. Organize and clean your kitchen cabinets. Having space makes people feel there is room for their “stuff.”

2. Add or replace tile. Adding a backsplash looks expensive, but tile can be found for bargains.

3. Install granite or marble tile instead of slab granite. You can save thousands this way!

4. Freshen your Bathroom. Scrape nasty tile grout and re-grout. Change medicine cabinets, faucets, and lighting to match and update.

5. Paint Dark paneling and trim. Unless your home is a farmhouse… a splash of tinted color makes white trim “pop” and a room feel instantly clean. Note: Don’t’ paint unless you are good at it! Hire a professional.

6. Look Up! Change and clean return air ducts, ceiling fans and light fixtures. If it’s dirty, it is an immediate turn-off to buyers.

7. Address your Front Door. Does it need paint, hardware, replacement? The front door and entry sets the mood for the house. Check your lighting here too!

8. Make your Garage look like a garage. Do you use it for storage, or is it a home for your vehicles? Nothing is better than driving into a garage on a rainy day!

Small investments like these can make the difference in your home selling or sitting on the market. Immaculate SELLS! Roll your sleeves up for profits!

Categories: For Sellers, Real Estate Advice

Out with the old, in with the new. Marketing and technology for Realtors

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VREBC-1-09Did you know that a Realtor is bound to continue their education according to the National Association of Realtors Code of Ethics?  Ethics training is paramount and after this comes all that goes into maintaining knowledge of every aspect of an industry that changes more than just about any other industry. Changes in market conditions, real estate law, financing and underwriting, zoning regulations and even building codes to name a few. Few customers realize the amount of education required of Realtors, not just for continuing education, but in achieving designations and certificates of study.

If that is not enough, learning how to effectively market properties, utilizing the latest technology and tools available keeps one not only ahead of competition, but enhances all listings by giving them greater visibility in todays marketplace.   We are moving toward technology in every aspect of our lives, who knew Realtors would need an understanding of technology to be effective marketers?  It is mind boggling considering most Realtors, when they began their careers had virtually no marketing experience. Many veteran agents have time under their belt, but do they use current marketing tools? It is a question customers must ask of their agents prior to listing with a Realtor.

Todays agents must be masters at listings, sales, and marketing.  All of these things are imperative to success. All of these change often, and all are changing with advent of social media avenues. Avenues for finding buyers and sellers and investors have changed.  Marketing methodology has morphed. A good Realtor will know what is working and what is time-worn and ineffective.

Over the past two years my marketing strategies have changed. I’m an avid reader and have been watching trends move from print advertising to the tools that today’s buyer and sellers use on a daily basis. I have attended seminars online and in person on marketing strategies, employed these in my new website, and expanded my visibility into social network environments by providing information about Tallahassee in hopes of attracting residents to our area and in obtaining buyers while establishing credibility with local sellers.

Learning about social media and marketing has helped grow my business, establish my brand, and has given me inspiration to help others learn what I have over the past few years. I have held technology seminars and continue on this path. tomorrow I will be hosting a Virtual REBarcamp webinar education seminar at my office where area agents will learn from some of the best in the business. Together we will learn, discuss and implement new marketing strategies for the upcoming year. The schedule below is what we will follow during this Virtual REBarCamp.

Keep in mind all that goes into your Realtors business and how they utilize the tools of technology along with their knowledge of all that is imperative to know in our industry. Give your Realtor a pat on the back for all that they put into your listings, your home search and your investment analysis!

Virtual REBarCamp Schedule for January 4, 2010.

VREBC-schedule-1Schedule-2Schedule-3Schedule-5

Categories: Debbie Kirkland, For Buyers, For Realtors, For Sellers, Market Trends, Real Estate Advice, Technology

10 Important Facts about the Extended First-Time Homebuyer Credit

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Do You Qualify for the Tax Credit?

Do I Qualify For The Tax Credit?

I’ve received calls this week about the extended tax credit from several current home-owners. This Tax credit was extended to a brief window in 2010. Now, not only is there a ta credit for first time buyers, but long term homeowners who want to sell and move as well.

If you or someone you know someone you know are considering  a move in 2010, DO NOT miss this tax savings!  Things will most likely be very different in 2010 as our government re-considers tax credits and the ability to keep offering these credits. Do not assume they will last. There will be an end, and there is no proposal at present or predicted to continue these tax credits.

Call Debbie Kirkland, your Realtor and Real Estate Professional if you have questions on selling your home or purchasing before April 30, 2010.  Debbie Kirkland, Realtor  850-212-0440

The rules are below:

For a link to this IRS Publication Click Here

IRS Special Edition Tax Tip 2009-13

If you are in the market for a new home, you may still be able to claim the First-Time Homebuyer Credit. Congress recently passed The Worker, Homeownership and Business Assistance Act Of 2009, extending the First-Time Homebuyer Credit and expanding who qualifies.

Here are the top 10 things the IRS wants you to know about the expanded credit and the qualifications you must meet in order to qualify for it.

  1. You must buy – or enter into a binding contract to buy a principal residence – on or before April 30, 2010.
  2. If you enter into a binding contract by April 30, 2010 you must close on the home on or before June 30, 2010.
  3. For qualifying purchases in 2010, you will have the option of claiming the credit on either your 2009 or 2010 return.
  4. A long-time resident of the same home can now qualify for a reduced credit. You can qualify for the credit if you’ve lived in the same principal residence for any five-consecutive year period during the eight-year period that ended on the date the new home is purchased and the settlement date is after November 6, 2009.
  5. The maximum credit for long-time residents is $6,500. However, married individuals filing separately are limited to $3,250.
  6. People with higher incomes can now qualify for the credit. The new law raises the income limits for homes purchased after November 6, 2009. The full credit is available to taxpayers with modified adjusted gross incomes up to $125,000, or $225,000 for joint filers.
  7. The IRS will issue a December 2009 revision of Form 5405 to claim this credit. The December 2009 form must be used for homes purchased after November 6, 2009 – whether the credit is claimed for 2008 or for 2009 – and for all home purchases that are claimed on 2009 returns.
  8. No credit is available if the purchase price of the home exceeds $800,000.
  9. The purchaser must be at least 18 years old on the date of purchase. For a married couple, only one spouse must meet this age requirement.
  10. A dependent is not eligible to claim the credit.

For more information about the expanded First-Time Homebuyer Credit, visit IRS.gov/recovery.

Links:

First-Time Homebuyer Credit

IR-2009-108, First-Time Homebuyer Credit Extended to April 30, 2010; Some Current Homeowners Now Also Qualify

YouTube Videos:

Recovery: New Homebuyer Credit – November 2009

Categories: Debbie Kirkland, For Buyers, For Realtors, For Sellers, Real Estate Advice, Real Estate Sales, Tallahassee

Five Things to Do When Your Home Will Not Sell

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You Are a Partner in Selling You Home!

You Are a Partner in Selling You Home!

Has your home been on the market longer than your listing period? Are you on your second.. or possibly your third Realtor?  Are you still stumped after all that time, left wondering why your home has not sold?  I’m going to attempt to explain what most Realtors want to say, but some can’t seem to get out..at least in terms most all will understand.. but some may not appreciate. This is my reality, this is not Realtor TV, and this is certainly not Hollywood.

This article won’t appeal to those whose homes have sold, so for you.. congratulations..whatever you did worked! I’ll save that for the follow-up. Right now, I have people who are desperate to sell their homes and not hearing what we are saying. Here goes,..

If you are in an area where values have dropped, I know you are going to be disappointed. I see it on my customer’s faces at nearly every listing appointment. Talk about a reason for depression!  Yes, we all watch TV and read the paper. Our economy sucks. So now, breathe in an out and lay the cards out. It’s my job to turn this thing around, and only with my sellers help can I do that. Sometimes that means, I don’t get a listing.. sometimes that means I spend hours with a calculator and a pencil outlining Plan A, B, C, D, E and F!

It’s my job to tell you the truth, so don’t shoot the professional who lives this market everyday who tells you the facts. My paycheck is directly affected by the falling prices and lack of sales. Believe me,.. I feel your pain!  However, it is time for truth, a realistic plan and total honesty and disclosure. By that I mean, there is work for everyone to do.  This is also not the time to feel ashamed, or to plot how to circumvent the system. Guess what? You are NOT alone. Please  don’t wait until I have a contract to tell me that you have a second mortgage… you know that line of credit that you used for your business, that was tied to your house as collateral. Oh yes, and let’s don’t forget about the roof leak that lead to the subteranian termites that lead to the bathroom floor “re-do.”  Disclose it now.. let’s get past it. You can’t afford to loose a customer at the closing table over doubt that you created. I can’t help you then!

So, I put this list together. There are 5 things you MUST do to sell you home in today’s market.

1. Hire a Real Estate Professional. This is not the time for FSBO unless you area  Realtor, a real estate attorney (because most do not know current real estate or disclosure law. Could your gynecologist give you a root canal?  They’re both Dr.s right?  It’s not the same believe me!)  With as many challenges as there are with appraisals, financing hurdles, disclosure issues, and inspection findings…you need someone who is there with you the entire time. Buyers have agents.. and some are sharks! WE can’t help it.. we are supposed to get the best deal for our buyers.  Many times Realtors work both sides of a transaction, in Florida we can do that as “transaction brokers.” sometimes that means we help another less experienced agent who falls apart when  lender issues rear their ugly heads at the 11th hour…not to mention any names,…”BoOoaaAaah!”

2. Invest In Your Sale. You are a fully invested partner in this transaction. Without your participation, preparation and motivation, this transaction will not take place. Your Realtor will give you a list. Get the things on that list done! Prepare your house to sell before the first person sees it.  That first person has been looking at other homes and is going  to purchase somewhere. (Getting Ready To Sell tips.) If your furniture is tired and worn out.. get some slipcovers. Pack your stuff..pack the kids stuff..how much can any kid play with at one time?  You’ve seen the Sell That House, HGTV specials, etc. “Get your Move On!” People will make offers with sellers who look like they have gone the extra mile and are ready to leave. Stage your home.. use what you have or hire someone. Re-arrange and de-clutter. If you don’t give a rip… well.. let your Realtor know that up front. That’s decision time for experienced agents.

3. Start looking at your next home. Whether it is online, or with your Realtor, get out.. see what kind of home you want to make your next home. You will appreciate what other buyers are going through if you are doing the same thing! If you are moving to a different city.. then just go see your competition..the other listings in your area that are similar to yours and that are different. Ask your Realtor to show you these other active listings, and the pending ones.. what made people make an offer on the house down the street and not yours?

4. Review area sales stats every month, the more often, the better. If your Realtor is not providing these.. then ask for them! Get your head around the facts that in most areas, sales and values change weekly, up or down.. few stay the same. You have to know this information. Showings are a good gauge of pricing and competition, and of market conditions.

5. Review your absolute bottom line. If that line is below what you owe..have a Plan B. If there is no Plan B, no efforts of even the most experienced, high profile agents will work. Knowing whether or not you can compete with a neighborhood of foreclosures,.. that is important! Numbers either work, or they don’t. If you are upside down or need to negotiate with you bank.. put them on alert now. You most likely find any lender more motivated than a year ago. Get a contact at the bank. If you can’t, get to a Realtor who has , well,…. abilities. Short Sales are not for the weak at heart.  You want the Realtor who wears fishnet stockings to church to work your short sale. Calm, cool, dedicated but a tiger who can reason with the banks and close a sale.

Real estate today.. it is face paced and furious…we are working harder, but are we working smarter? Those who are selling , are working very, very hard.

Still confused? How about a FREE home selling guide.

Need a Real Estate Agent Referral? We can do that too, just let me know in the comments where  your next move will be!

Categories: For Sellers, Real Estate Advice, Realtor

Tallahassee Homes – Marketing Plans That Work

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Tallahassee Homes - A marketing plan that works for sellers and buyers.

Whetehr you are a seller or a buyer, interview your Realtor. Ask the right questions and make sure you can commmunicate with your Realtor. Call Debbie Kirkland, Realtor and referral agent, for a referral to a professional Realtor in your area. 850-212-0440

Interviewing Realtors?  Can we all agree the ulitmate goal of selling a home is ….to get it SOLD!  Statistics show that the majority of buyers will see a home in the first three weeks, after that, “The thrill is gone,” so to speak. 

So, let’s look at a Realtor’s role in a transaction and what it takes to get a home exposed and to make a wise investment  in today’s market.

Multiple Listing Service

  • In our  MLS system, a listing is posted and remains “NEW” for four days! Wow,.. 4 days to show up on the “hotsheet.”  That’s the area most savvy agents look to when they wake up in the AM and before they head out the door. (but face it, busy agents hit the groud running..so let’s hope they don’t miss your “creampuff!”) The hotsheet posts new listings, price reductions and status changes of listings. It’s important to review this, especially if you are looking for properties that are “buyer specific.” By that I mean, you buyer is very specific (picky). It’s ok… it’s a big purchase, buyers should be specific! You want to make sure that your listing is ready to go with as many photos as allowable and a video is shortly following!
  • After those 4 days are up..then what? Again, it’s there, searchable, so make sure it can be found by use of pictures and video and that the description will entice buyers!

Websites

  • Most Realtors have websites, but content is king, so a website that reaches into the community, showcases area information, neighborhood information and features listings with visual and video appeal is what will reach today’s buyers. 87% of buyers begin their serach on the Internet, and most of those buy homes they have found on the Internet. Websites with photos and videos really bring in the visitors!
  • If you’re searching online or in a magazine and find a home with just one picture.. a fuzzy one at that, what conclusion will you draw? If you need to see details and can’t get to the listing, will your Realtor to preview for you? (sellers,..are you listening?)

Local Exposure

  • Is your Realtor a wallflower?  The real estate industry is about networking. I seriously don’t think I’ve met a successful Realtor yet who is bashful, reclusive or introverted. I’m not saying your Realtor should be the class clown, but certainly you want them to talk about your home, share your listings with those who may just have the perfect buyer for that property!
  • There are many ways for your Realtor to showcase your home to other Realtors. Local Board of Realtor marketing meetings. We have them once a month..what a great time to talk about your new listings! Realtor socials and community events, broker open houses, office and top-producer caravans. Yes, they work! People remember homes they see, and they fit the home to those “specific” buyers we mentioned earlier!
  • Don’t forget Social Media tools and networking. In today’s world, if you want to grow a business, any business, people must be able to find you, to see your product and get information with the click of a mouse. If a Realtor is leveraging social networks, people are getting their message, they are exposing products regularly to today’s buyers.
  • I think most would agree.. Realtors are the most social creatures on earth! Most balance home, work, family, community… and they all seem to compliment each other. Realtors are working most all the time, even when it looks like it’s completely unrelated events! (just ask the customer I met last night in line at the movies!) Pick one who likes to have fun and is involved! Remember, Realtors are people too, respect their time just as you would your family or co-workers!

Media

  • Choosing which media is effective today is a challenge. Measuring the effectiveness versus the cost of advertising is very important. A wise agent carefully times advertising  between print media, radio and tv, web exposure and niche database marketing. It’s a combination of all these mediums that are the most effective.
  • Realtors with specialty niche markets may be the best choice for a specfic type property, or in smaller areas it may be the realtor with the biggest tool box, the agent with the tools to attact every type buyer that would be a great fit for your home.

Communication

  • This probably should have been first on the list! What is your preferred method of contact. If you are one-on-one, then let your Realtor know this. If you are a busy student or business person, perhaps e-mail  is best for your updates. If you are on the go, mobile technology, texting and e-mail from the road may work best for you.
  • No matter what method you choose, regular communication, market updates, showing feedback and product information is critical to your success, both for buyers and sellers. Ask your Realtor for a communication plan!

There are many great Realtors from which to choose today. Take time to interview. If you are a buyer, avoid the luck of the draw by simply calling on signs. Do your homework, buying and selling a home deserves sound, educated and professional information and resources. Find a Realtor who will give you the best service as you enter your next real estate transaction.

Debbie Kirkland, Realtor  .  Armor Realty of  Tallahassee .  www.HomeSalesofTallahassee.com

Categories: For Buyers, For Sellers, Real Estate Advice

Do you LOVE your Realtor?

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According to someone on Twitter.. today is “I Love You Day” or something! I have no idea.. but my mailbox is full of LOVE today. Who cares.. I feel loved for sure!

sf-heartEverybody loves their Realtor! Why?  I have a  pretty good idea! 

This morning I got up at 7 am to have breakfast with my two last customers.. my first time home buyers, who took me out to breakfast with a part of their $8000 first time home-buyer credit money!  (Wow.. now that’s a treat!) But, while eating, an idea came to me.. so what better to do than write about it while sitting at open house.

Your Realtor.. are they smart, funny, intelligent,.. do you connect or is there silence (hello… anyone home???)  People forget we are people too. Most agents have NOT been in the business their entire lives.. although there are few locally raised in it.. and that’s all I hear… booorrring. Good people.. just no connection. Anyway… It is my belief that the BEST in the business have a great deal more knowledge than all that pertains to the very important real estate knowledge. They have,.. well.. life experience. They connect to people, they laugh, they have fun.. they shop at the same grocery as you.. and yes.. some have even cleaned your teeth before! (did I say I was a dental hygienist in my previous life?) 

When I started in the business.. some.. well.. 8 years ago now, the first thing I did was interview all the local “Big Boys and Girls in Real Estate” business, ( a great book!!).  How’d they do it.. Why do they still do it, and What can they tell me about how to make it happen?  those were me three questions.  Well, they’re still doing it.. and I am there with them.

Three things they, now we, have in common.

1. They love life… if real estate ended tomorrow.. these people will be having fun.. somewhere. I’m amazed.. artists, former PR people, Moms, geeks, teachers, probasketball player,.. you name it.. people in real estate are used to change and variety. They thrive on it! 

2. They work about 90 – 100 hours a week.  Hmm..how many of you think Realtors drive around and play golf all day? Think again.. my customers get my finest email compositions at 2AM.

3. They are social, connected, passionate and involved.  Whether at Board meetings (where they market your property), Chamber events, Commission meetings (where they help protect your property rights), showing properties (Where they bring qualified buyers to your property) or at a school function, they are working.. 24/7.. the wheels turn, the connections are made to set up the perfect match between buyer and seller.

So, I set up camp using those three cornerstones. It wasn’t hard! Those who know me, know I love to talk, love to explore people and places. I’ve always had a good real estate website for marketing, I belive in technolgy and that the internet and  the digital world (My Hello World)will be as much a part of out lives as a grocery store! It is a necessity! So I began with Facebook, then some blogging.. some broadcasting and video e-mails, all good for work. But the social highlight,  My good friends on Twitter.. the Twitterqueens…. now there’s a group. Keeping each other motivated, entertained, laughing and in tune to what’s new wtih technology,.. music and well.. just about anything. Connections. Social. @FloridaSunSales… all about the people and 72 characters. Conversations and mutual admiration, challenges and fun with @HeyAmaretto, @MayaREGuru, @LeslieLambert, @DeeGeeBee, @kvBuckley @KimWood @elainehanson ,.. uhh don’t worry, if I forgot someone I am SURE they will remind me! #Twitterqueens Rule.

So… find you a REALTOR.. a good one.. these are lifelong connections.. I want to see your babies grow up, (Thanks Lynn and Bob – my 4 .5 year customers.. we’ll make it happen soon…*fingers crossed*), and we really do care about you! 

So,…lighten up, enjoy the adventure,… and,… if you are coming to FLA… I’m your real estate girl. Email me… @FloridaSunSales.

hellobadge-fss

Categories: Debbie Kirkland, For Buyers, For Realtors, For Sellers, Market Trends, Real Estate Advice, Uncategorized

Frustrated Home Seller?

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How To Sell in A Buyer’s Market

This is one of the most useful links I can give to any of you who are thinking of selling your home in today’s market.

http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2008/07/24/eveningnews/main4291776.shtml

This video that explains a few things seller’s must consider when preparing a home to sell. Most of these tips are included in my pre-listing package.

The market, the average sale prices, and days on market are factors that change daily. Yes, daily! Gone are the days of comparing your home to a home down the street that sold two years ago, last year, even last month! Supply and demand, (Presently an oversupply and low demand), has set sellers up for challenges to making their home more appealing.

Shopping for a home in this market is much like window shopping..the internet offers a vast supply of resources for buyers, and 80+ percent of buyers begin their home search on the internet. However, time and time again, it is PRICING, that makes the difference in a proeprty that sells or does not sell. The theory of “substitution” seems to be the driving force of sales today. What this means is,.. if you have multiple items to consider when making your choice, two, three or twenty items that are similar in quality, age, size, amenities,.. the most likely factor that will seal the deal for you will be the bargain PRICE.

I am an Realtor that utilizes many technical, and diverse marketing techniques. Putting my seller’s properties in as many places as possible to bring buyers to the listing, is my goal. this is what brings buyers to the market.

However, cooperation from every seller is the most important factor in the success of bringing a transaction to close. Understanding market conditions, market value, (the most probable price a proeprty will bring), and detaching from all of the emotions of a property are all critical factors in preparing to sell. The value of your home doesn’t necessarily depend on how much you have invested in it. Real estate sales revolve around fair market value, not your “sweat equity” or even monetary equity most of the time.

Working with offers, negotiating details that will bring a deal to close is a tedious process. It consumes hours of time and involves many concessions from sellers than buyers these days. It is advisble to consider ALL offers, and work with counter-offers and through details until there is a meeting of the minds. This takes more than words..it is truly a skill, and I provide that to my customers. Bringing in reason, facts, explanation of isses that both parties may not be aware of, is my job. More times than not.. agreements can be reached.

If you are thinking of selling.. please consult me as your Real Estate Professional. Many buyers are not even considering FSBO properties because there is so much else to see. Many assume that FSBO’s are not as negotiable or educated as sellers who are working with professionals. Many buyer’s are also making multiple offers.. but on different properties…seller’s beware!

Again, consult a professional,… let me bring my experience to you, especially in this challenging market. We can succeed in a short amount of time!

Email me at debbiekirkland@homesalesoftallahassee.com for more information, or to request a pre-listing package for preparing your home for sale!

Categories: Debbie Kirkland, For Sellers, Real Estate Advice, real-estate


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