SELLERS' FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How much is my home worth?
Home sellers often want to know the estimated value of their property to set a competitive price and make the most of out of their investment. Real estate agents can help provide a valuation based on current market conditions and comparable sales. Keep in mind the market is constantly fluctuating, so your home's value changes even throughout the year.
How long will it take to sell my home?
The time it takes to sell a home can vary depending on factors like location, market conditions, pricing, and property condition. Taking preemptive measures to make sure your home appeals to the broadest market includes tidying up any deferred maintenance, ensuring excellent curb appeal, and setting the price correctly. Doing all this will help your home sell faster than others.
Should I make any repairs or renovations before selling?
This depends on the condition of your home. Some repairs or updates can improve it's appeal and value. You don't want to over improve and lose more than you can make back. In addition, you do not want to miss spending a few hundred dollars to gain thousands back. Something as simple as decluttering and adding a fresh coat of paint goes a long way. Your real estate agent can help guide you to make the most beneficial changes.
How should I prepare my home for showings?
Staging your home can make it more attractive to potential buyers. This may involve decluttering, cleaning, and arranging furniture to highlight the property's best features. In addition, working with your realtor to make as many showing slots available to potential buyers will assist you in being prepared for showings. If you are a pet owner, you will want to plan ahead for moving or removing pets during showings.
How should I market my home?
Effective marketing is crucial to attracting potential buyers. Real estate agents typically employ a combination of online listings, professional photography, virtual tours, open houses, and advertising to showcase your property to a wide audience. During your conversation with your realtor you should ask them what they are doing to set your home apart from the competition.
What closing costs should I expect as a seller?
Sellers generally can expect to cover certain closing costs, which may included agent commissions, transfer of taxes, attorney fees and pro-rated taxes. These costs can vary by region, it's best to ask your real estate agent ahead of time. As realtors we can provide fairly accurate estimates. Title companies are also great partners to assist in dialing down the costs to be expected at the closing table.
Do I need to disclose any issues with my property?
Disclosure requirements vary by states, but in Idaho this is a definite YES. Idaho law requires sellers to disclose all KNOWN material defects or issues with the property to potential buyers.
Should I get a home inspection before listing my property?
While not mandatory, getting a pre-listing inspection could be helpful in identifying any potential problems ahead of time. However, be forewarned, each inspector tends to find different issues. The advantage of a pre-inspection is to screen for big repairs or deal breakers for buyers.
Can I sell my home while buying another one?
YES, it is possible to sell your home while simultaneously buying a new one. Timing and logistics can be challenging. Having a great real estate professional will be extremely valuable in enabling you to navigate this process and all the details involved.
