integrity

How to Sell Your own Home

Place an ad in your local newspaper.  Always include the area or town, the price, and number of bedrooms and bathrooms.  These are important considerations to a buyer.

Consider an ad in local publications, such as “The Spotlight” or the “Community News”.
Design an attractive flyer or brochure for your property.  A photo and description of the home is important.

Know at least three different methods available to finance the sale of your home in today’s market.  Are you willing to assume the mortgage?  Are you offering seller financing?  Offer information on conventional and adjustable financing, FHA, VA and SONYMA loans.  Buyers want to know the total cash payment, including closing costs and monthly payments.  You want to be able to help them in order to facilitate the sale.

Have your current taxes and home owner insurance payment available.  Are they paid from an escrow account or by some other method?

Are your heat and utility bills readily available?

Consider having an appraisal done on your home to determine the current value.  Buyers typically offer less than you are asking because they know you are saving on the commission.  You need to know what the fair market value of your home is.

When a prospective buyer visits your home, follow these guidelines:

Set appointments at their convenience.
Always prepare the home in advance, even if you must leave work to do it.
Have your property flyers available.
Introduce yourself at the door.
Let them tour the home with as much privacy as possible.
Buyers feel uncomfortable making comments in your presence.  When they complete the tour of your home, ask them if they would like to go back for a second look.
Be prepared.  Most people may not be that interested in your home.  Buyers shop by comparison and there are usually a large number of homes for them to consider.

In the event you receive an offer, have them put it in writing, including an earnest money deposit.  Pay an attorney to review the legalities of the contract.