Helpful Real Estate Information

Buying or selling a home can be very exciting, but also very stressful. It is important to understand how the real estate system works, so you can make the best decisions for yourself and your family. By preparing, planning and being informed, you will make your transaction a successful one. Whether buying or selling, select your Realtor carefully ~ Your Realtor can make a significant difference.

Buyers

Kristi will make sure the process is as smooth and stress-free as possible. Her extensive business background enables her to communicate well with attorneys, lenders, insurance agents and other parties through the purchase process until the home is yours.

When Buying A Home It Is Important To Remember:

• Know your budget – Get pre-qualified upfront to see what your budget is and establish the amount for which you can qualify. There should be no last minute surprises or unnecessary disappointments. Your Realtor should be able to provide you with a list of qualified lenders who have a good track record of performing.
• Get a Pre-Approval Letter – If you plan on buying a home or property, you will need some kind of paperwork proving that you’re a serious buyer – either a pre-approval letter or proof of funds. Some sellers won’t show their homes to buyers without it, and most won’t consider offers without proof of financial ability. Having that paperwork ready is a huge advantage in your home search
• Know the Area – Select a Realtor who works in the area and has sold other homes in the communities in which you are interested. Keep in mind that your new home should be in close proximity to your workplace when possible, and anything else that is important to you. Prioritizing your wants is important. You may want to consider the location of schools and bus routes, professional services, hospitals, entertainment, etc. All of these are important considerations. Ask your Realtor for school information and their ratings for the areas you are considering and check out our School Link.
• Establish Your Criteria – Know what kind of home you are looking for and furnish you Realtor your criteria. Such things as style, number of stories, number of garages, number of bedrooms, single story or two story and any other amenity which is important to your family. This will make your search more efficient so you do not waste time looking at homes that do not meet your needs and wants. Let your Realtor know upfront where there is flexibility. If you’re are thinking about a new home, get information about the builder and his track record. The quality of their work should be checked in other homes they have sold. You can also ask for references. Your Realtor can help you in identifying the selections you may have such as colors, elevations, appliances, counter tops, etc.,
• Insurance Information – Check out the flood zoning for insurance purposes and develop estimates for the total insurance costs for the areas you are considering. Insurance can be costly so get these costs upfront. Your Realtor should be able to assist you in developing this information and make the process a lot easier for you. Ask for sources or a list of insurance companies to compare and verify costs.

Sellers

Kristi and her team will help you sell your home in the shortest amount of time with the least amount of inconvenience possible. They will be there every step of the way by counseling you on the visual presentation of your home, marketing your home, negotiating the best possible price for you, and coordinating all of the details with all parties involved in your closing.

When Selling Your Home It Is Important To Remember:

• Curb Appeal – The impression of your home begins at the curb when the prospect drives up. It is imperative that you create the best possible image. Landscaping is paramount! Hedges, trees and the lawn should be manicured, freshly mulched, and kept in this premier condition throughout the listing. Most buyers assume that if the exterior is not maintained that the mechanics of the home might not be either. Make sure the front door is clean and freshly stained if needed. All shutters secured and windows clean and sparkling. A good power-washing is relatively inexpensive and gives you the most bang for your money. This all done, you are halfway there!
• Home staging – This may be something you want to consider depending on your specific décor. You may be competing with new home where builders have professionally decorated models. Discuss recommendations with your realtor and bring in a professional for ideas if needed.
• Staging & Updating – There are times that homes need to be updated. The kitchen and bathrooms generally draw the most attention and negative comments from prospects when they are dated. These two areas are the ones to first address. If funds are not readily available, then the next best choice might be to offer an allowance,
• Information Package – Having information readily available make a great impression to prospects and their realtors while touring your home. Information about warranties, insurance, utilities and recent improvements are very helpful. Other ancillary information might include schools, area shopping, medical facilities, etc.

Your realtor will help guide you in arriving at the best approach to getting your home ready to put your home on the market! Choosing an experienced and knowledgeable Realtor is the best assurance of success in getting your home sold quickly.

If you have any real estate questions or want to discuss purchasing a home or listing your home for sale, we invite you to give us a call for a free consultation with a professional Competitive Market Analysis. Ask about our Buy and Sell incentive program.

Kristi Nations Real Estate – Making the Difference with Proven Results!