Seller FAQs
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• I'm thinking about selling, what's the first step? 

• How do agents show my property?

• What happens if I sell my house first and can't find a new home?

• How can I prepare my home for maximum profit?

• I'm thinking about selling, what's the first step? 
              

• How do agents show my property?
  
  Agents have a lock box key.  This keypad fits into a lock box attached to your door, rail or water pipe.  Every time an agent uses it, information about the agent is recorded.  Once the code is entered, a house key is ejected from the box.  It is smart to have a lock box on your property to allow easy access for maximum showings.  The more showings, the quicker the sale, the higher the price.  
  
  Agents call our appointment center to schedule an appointment to show your home.  Install an answering machine so they can leave messages.  When you know someone is coming, try to leave.  This way, the buyer feels free to ask questions of his/her agent and discuss your home openly without offending you.  If you can't leave, stay out of the way and do not offer information unless asked.  Remember, agents know what their Buyers are looking for and will council them accordingly.
  
  Be flexible for showing appointments.  The more difficult you make it for agents to schedule times, the less likely they are to show your property.  Often Buyers can't see your home until after work in the evenings, so try to be patient and accommodating.  
                                                                   
• What happens if I sell my house first?

The chances of this happening are slim.  If it does happen, however, temporary housing (a short tem rental) is available.  Unfortunately, when you commit to make a move, you have to go for it!  It's a little tricky because on your re-purchase, some sellers, especially corporate owned homes, will not consider a contingency contract.  Sold and closed is even more desirable because it gives you more leverage for negotiations. 

When an offer is presented, you have the option of asking for a longer close.  This gives you enough time to locate your new home, write up an offer and close escrows concurrently.  You can see the importance of having a knowledgeable and experienced agent.  You need guidance through these delicate transitions.

• How can I prepare my home for maximum profit?
      
  Clean up your front yard
  The first impression (curb appeal) is vital.  Your lawn should be trimmed, watered and fertilized, walkways swept, the front door cleaned, and have a doorbell that works.  New door hardware and new light fixtures invite perspective Buyers in.  Plant some flowers and purchase flower pots to frame the entryway.  Take the pots with you when you move.  
       

  Inside Decor Buyers need to visualize what their furniture will look like in your home.  They look for spaciousness.  Therefore, less is more.  Place excessive furniture and personal belonging in storage.  Remove pictures.  Clean or replace drapes that are in poor condition.  Clean or replace your carpets.  Remove outdated wallpaper and paint dirty walls a neutral color.  Remove counter clutter.  A few minutes of inconvenience can add value to your property.

  Cleanliness
  Your home should look and smell clean.  Keep the floors vacuumed and picked up.  No dishes in the sink.  Make your beds, organize your closets and cabinets.  
  
  Light, Bright
  Keep the drapes open.  Buyers like to see open, bright and airy homes.  Clean the windows.  Keep the heater on in the winter, the air conditioner in the summer and most importantly, turn on all lights!
  
  Fix Little Things
  Loose doorknobs or cabinets pulls, sticking doors and drawers, wobbly hinges, stuck windows -- are all negative factors.  Take a few minutes to check and repair all these items.  
   
  Rear Yard
  Water, fertilize, trim.  Repair loose fence boards, try to create a sense of privacy with some patio furniture, plants, and even a small fountain has the ability to soften  unwanted noise.

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