In Part 1, we stressed the need for having your paperwork in hand for all of the changes that you had made to your home while you were there. A special focus was to be those changes that would make it a unique and special place, when compared to your competition. In Part 2, we will deal with issues in your Oakland home that will need to be disclosed to buyers. The goal--speed your sale by having all decisions and issues addressed, thus putting you in a position to act promptly to offers received, and again, often putting you ahead of other sellers in the marketplace.
1. Deal With Issues That Must Be Disclosed to Potential Buyers-
Most homes have things that need to be addressed-whether a leak in the bathroom, or a chimney that might need attention. Many of these problems have come about due to deferred maintenance, often due to lack of funds to fix them. California law requires the homeowner to declare problem issues to possible buyers before they purchase the home. You no doubt know what your major problems are. It is my job to explain all of the disclosure requirements to you, so you can make a list of what needs to be addressed. Before we draw up the list:
a. Take time to thoroughly investigate your home before we sit down to make the required disclosures. Be completely frank in your evaluation, because this is another important step that will speed your home's sale--being informed and prepared with the facts.
b. Decide, once you have this information, what you will be prepared to fix and pay for, and what you will not be able to afford to fix. It will save huge amounts of negotiation time, focus on specific issues for discussion, and ultimately help me get the best possible price for your home.Â
2. Make A Plan To Address Important Issues That Need Correction-
a. Once you know your problem issues, do some serious research about the cost of repairs that would be involved to make them right. Perhaps contact a past contractor that you felt comfortable with, and discuss what seems to be realistic and affordable options.Â
b. Use the Internet for all kinds of suggestions that will address your problems. There are many ways to deal with the same issue, and many websites today offer helpful information.
In summary-"Be Prepared" should be your home selling slogan. The more you know, the more you can deal with, the faster you will move ahead in selling your home.Â
Posted by Bruce Wagg on
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