Selling or Buying a House - Perspectives From Experience

I’ve been representing homebuyers and sellers since 1976. When you see and sell a lot of homes each year, you cannot help but start connecting the dots. I made a list of observations that I’ve found to be true from year to year and I’m happy to share them with you here.

• Clean homes priced right sell!
• Never underestimate location: commute, schools, convenience.
• Curb appeal really does matter!
• If a home looks really bad on the outside, the inside will be worse!
• Homes that are not well-maintained will cost you.
• This is not a market to try a price for a few weeks!
• The barking dog is really saying, "Do not enter! My bite is worse than my bark!"
• Hope you enjoy your cigarettes more than a "Sold Sign" on the front lawn!
• Home inspections are a great thing!
• Big cracks in masonry, brick, concrete are telling your something. Pay attention to them.
• Too many homes for sale on the same street may indicate something is happening.
• It is always a smart idea to further explore the neighborhood and surrounding community.
• A home warranty is a good thing!
• Radon tests are a smart idea.
• Check for termites!
• It's always smart to get a survey!
• Always purchase buyer’s title insurance!
• Use a local lender!
• It's not smart to buy a home on a major road or if it backs to a road!
• Never buy a home under power lines!
• First offer is usually the best offer!
• Creative financing usually borders being illegal!
• Lease purchases agreements very seldom if ever work out!
• Make sure everything you want in a home is in writing, and signed off by all parties.
• Never trust anyone's word - this is a business transaction. Put it in writing.
• When in doubt, don't proceed forward - seek counsel.
• If something does not seem right, it isn't! Trust your gut!
• Just because the home does not appear to be in a flood zone, doesn’t mean it isn't!
• Full-time real estate agent get the best results!
• Neighborhoods with a Homeowner’s Association and a pool are more sought after than those without.
• Neutral colors are easier to sell.
• There is a difference between "Upgrades and updated!"
• Sellers should never be in the home when it is being shown!

The advice offered here may not be applicable to all areas. CONTACT ME .for expertise tailored to your local.

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