Greater Vancouver Real Estate BlogRecently posted or modified blog posts by tag - Seller questionhttps://www.vancouverhousefinders.com/blog/Copyright VancouverHouseFinders.com2024-02-08T12:17:06-07:00tag:vancouverhousefinders.com,2012-09-20:21885Vancouver Real Estate: 5 Indications We Are Headed For A Hot Market in 2024
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Vancouver Real Estate: 5 Indications We Are Headed For A Hot Market in 2024
Unveiling 5 Explosive Signs For An Unstoppable Real Estate Growth In Greater Vancouver By 2024!
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jUcSxMF5JCI" style="font-size: 10px;"></a>Introduction
Vancouver, British Columbia is said to be one of the world’s livable cities. It is mainly because of its beautiful landscapes, thriving economy, and diverse culture. It is no surprise that the real estate market in Vancouver has been Vancouver, British Columbia is said to be one of the world’s livable cities. It is mainly because of its beautiful landscapes, thriving economy, and diverse culture. It is no surprise that the real estate market in Vancouver has been booming in recent years. As we look ahead to 2024, several key indications will shape the Vancouver real estate market on the West Coast, including its prime location along the Pacific Ocean.
In this blog, we will explore five major factors that will impact the Vancouver real estate market in 2024, including the growing demand for properties in the desirable South Vancouver area and the up-and-coming East Vancouver community, as well as the neighboring cities of North Vancouver and West Vancouver.
Lower Inflation Impact on Vancouver Real Estate
Lower inflation rates can have a significant impact on the Vancouver real estate market. When inflation is low, the cost of living decreases, making it more affordable for individuals and families to invest in real estate. Lower inflation rates can also lead to reduced interest rates, which can further boost the real estate market. Real estate services in Vancouver will play a crucial role in helping buyers and sellers navigate the market during this time.
The Past Inflation Scenario
In the past, British Columbia has experienced varying levels of inflation that have influenced the real estate market. Higher inflation rates can lead to increased housing prices, making it more challenging for potential buyers to enter the market. However, lower inflation rates have the opposite effect, creating more affordable opportunities for individuals to invest in real estate.
Over the years, Vancouver has had both high and low inflation rates. These fluctuations have had a direct impact on the affordability and accessibility of real estate in Vancouver. Understanding the past inflation scenario can help predict future trends and make informed decisions in the Vancouver real estate market.
Current Trends and Predictions for 2024
As we look forward to 2024, several current trends and predictions will shape the Vancouver real estate market. According to experts, the following factors are expected to impact the market:
Continued population growth: Vancouver's population is projected to continue growing in the coming years. This will create a higher demand for housing and drive up prices.
Shift towards sustainable housing: With increasing environmental awareness, there is a growing demand for sustainable and energy-efficient housing options. Developers are expected to focus on creating more environmentally friendly properties.
Rise of remote work: The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of remote work, allowing individuals to work from anywhere. This has led to an increased demand for homes with dedicated office spaces and access to high-speed internet.
Technological advancements: The real estate industry embraces new technologies such as virtual tours, online transactions, and AI-powered property searches. These advancements will continue to shape the way buyers and sellers interact in the market.
Government policies: Government policies, such as tax incentives for homebuyers and stricter regulations on foreign buyers, will continue to influence the Vancouver real estate market
Trend
Impact on Vancouver Real Estate
Continued population growth
Higher demand for housing and increased prices
Shift towards sustainable housing
Focus on creating environmentally friendly properties
Rise of remote work
Increased demand for homes with dedicated office spaces
Technological advancements
Efficient way for buyers and sellers to interact in the market
Government policies
Influence on affordability and foreign buyer participation
2. Lower Interest Rates Boosting Real Estate Transactions
Lower interest rates have a significant impact on real estate transactions in Vancouver. When interest rates are low, it means borrowing costs become cheaper and more affordable for individuals to purchase properties. This leads to increased demand and higher transaction volumes in the real estate market.
When there are lower interest rates, it also incentivizes current homeowners to refinance their mortgages, freeing up more funds for investment in real estate such as Rentals, Airbnb and buying and selling.
Federal Policy Impact on Interest Rates
Federal policies play a crucial role in determining interest rates, which, in turn, impact the real estate market. The central bank sets the benchmark interest rate, and this rate influences the rates offered by financial institutions for mortgages and other loans.
To stimulate economic growth, the federal government may implement policies to keep interest rates low. This encourages borrowing and investment, including in the real estate sector. Lower interest rates make it more affordable for individuals and businesses to access credit, leading to increased real estate transactions and investment.
However, federal policies can also affect interest rates in the opposite direction. For example, if there are concerns about inflation, the government may raise interest rates to cool down the economy. This can have a dampening effect on the real estate market, as higher interest rates make borrowing more expensive and can reduce demand for properties.
Consumer Confidence and Market Activity
Consumer confidence plays a crucial role in driving market activity in Vancouver's real estate sector. When consumers are optimistic about the economy and their financial situation, they are more likely to engage in real estate transactions. On the other hand, if consumer confidence is low, individuals may delay buying or selling properties.
Factors influencing consumer confidence include:
Economic indicators: The overall state of the economy, including employment rates, GDP growth, and inflation, can impact consumer confidence in the real estate market.
Housing affordability: The cost of housing relative to income levels can affect consumer confidence. If housing prices are perceived as too high, potential buyers may delay their purchase decisions.
Market stability: Stability in the real estate market, with consistent or increasing property values, can boost consumer confidence and encourage more activity.
In summary, consumer confidence is closely tied to market activity in Vancouver's real estate sector. When consumers have a positive outlook on the economy and feel financially secure, they are more likely to engage in selling properties or <a href="https://www.vancouverhousefinders.com/blog/common-things-to-look-out-for-before-buying-your-dream-home/">buying a home</a>.
3. Extension of Foreign Buyer Ban in Canada
The extension of the foreign buyer ban in Canada has a significant impact on the Vancouver real estate market. The ban restricts foreign buyers from purchasing properties in certain areas, including Vancouver. This policy aims to address concerns about housing affordability and ensure that residents have access to homes. The extension of the ban is expected to continue influencing the Vancouver real estate market in 2024.
The Influence of Government Policies on Vancouver Real Estate
Government policies have a direct impact on the Vancouver real estate market. The extension of the foreign buyer ban is just one example of how government policies can shape the market. Other policies related to taxation, zoning regulations, and development incentives also influence the real estate landscape in Vancouver.
Government policies aimed at addressing housing affordability, promoting sustainable development, and protecting homeowners' rights can have effects on the Vancouver real estate market. These policies can impact supply and demand dynamics, pricing trends, and investment opportunities.
Buyers, sellers, and industry professionals need to stay informed about government policies and their potential impact on Vancouver's real estate market. Understanding these policies can help navigate the market effectively and make informed decisions.
Market Expectations in Light of the Extended Ban
With the extended foreign buyer ban in place, market expectations in Vancouver's real estate sector are likely to be affected. The extended ban’s main goal is to address concerns about housing affordability and ensure that local residents have access to homes. Some market expectations in light of the extended ban include:
Increased opportunities for local buyers: With fewer foreign buyers in the market, local buyers may have more opportunities to purchase properties at a more affordable price.
Shift in demand: The ban may lead to a shift in demand towards properties that are more affordable for local buyers, potentially impacting pricing trends in specific areas.
Impact on high-end properties: The extended ban may have a greater impact on the high-end property market, as foreign buyers are often more active in this segment.
It is important to note that market expectations can change over time, influenced by various factors such as economic conditions, government policies, and global events. Monitoring market trends and staying informed about the latest developments can help individuals make informed decisions in the Vancouver real estate market.
4. Increased Real Estate Transactions and Positive Market Sentiment
Increased real estate transactions and positive market sentiment are indications of a thriving real estate market in Vancouver. When there is high demand for properties and a positive outlook on the market, buyers and sellers are more likely to engage in transactions.
Positive market sentiment can create a sense of urgency among buyers, leading to increased competition and potentially higher property prices. This positive momentum in the market can be influenced by factors such as low interest rates, government incentives, and economic stability.
Personal Experiences and Observations
Personal experiences and observations can provide valuable insights into the Vancouver real estate market. Individuals who have been actively involved in buying or <a href="https://www.vancouverhousefinders.com/blog/how-to-sell-a-house-an-effective-7-tips-for-selling-your-vancouver-home/">selling properties</a> can share their firsthand experiences, including challenges they faced, strategies they used, and lessons they learned.
For example, a buyer may share their experience of navigating a competitive bidding process and securing their dream home. A seller may discuss their experience of preparing their property for sale and negotiating offers. Observations from industry professionals, such as real estate agents, can also shed light on market trends and dynamics. These professionals have a deep understanding of the market and can provide insights into current conditions and future predictions.
By sharing personal experiences and observations, individuals can contribute to a collective understanding of the Vancouver real estate market and help others make informed decisions.
Indications of a Busy 2024 for Real Estate
Several indications point to a busy year ahead for real estate in Vancouver in 2024. These indications include:
Continued population growth: Vancouver's population is projected to continue growing, creating a higher demand for housing and driving market activity.
Low interest rates: Low interest rates make borrowing more affordable, encouraging individuals to invest in real estate.
Government incentives: Government incentives, such as tax breaks for first-time homebuyers, can stimulate market activity and increase demand.
Infrastructure investment: Investments in infrastructure, such as transportation and amenities, can attract buyers to specific areas and drive real estate development.
Economic stability: A stable economy with low unemployment rates and strong GDP growth can instill confidence in the real estate market.
These indications suggest that 2024 will be a busy and active year for the Vancouver real estate market, with opportunities for buyers, sellers, and investors alike.
5. Decreasing Inventory Indicating High Demand
Decreasing inventory levels in the Vancouver real estate market indicate high demand. When the number of available properties decreases, buyers may face increased competition, potentially leading to higher property prices. Decreasing inventory levels can also create a sense of urgency among buyers, as they strive to secure a property before it is sold to someone else. This dynamic can favor sellers, who may have more leverage in negotiating offers. Monitoring inventory levels can provide insights into market conditions and help buyers and sellers navigate the Vancouver real estate market effectively.
Analysis of Inventory Levels in 2023
An analysis of inventory levels in 2023 can provide insights into the Vancouver real estate market and help predict future trends. In 2023, the Vancouver market experienced a decrease in inventory levels, indicating high demand and a competitive market. Low inventory levels can create a sense of urgency among buyers, leading to faster sales and potentially higher property prices. The analysis of inventory levels in 2023 suggests that the Vancouver real estate market is characterized by strong demand and limited supply. Buyers need to be prepared and act quickly when desirable properties become available. Sellers can take advantage of the current market conditions and potentially achieve higher sale prices. Monitoring inventory levels and market trends is essential for making informed decisions in the Vancouver real estate market.
Predicting 2024 Market Trends Based on Current Inventory
Predicting 2024 market trends based on current inventory levels can provide valuable insights into the Vancouver real estate market. With decreasing inventory levels indicating high demand, the trend of a competitive market will likely continue into 2024. Buyers can expect limited options and increased competition for available properties, including highly sought-after condos. This may lead to higher property prices and the need for swift decision-making.
Sellers, on the other hand, can anticipate a favorable market with the potential for faster sales and potentially higher sale prices. However, sellers need to price their properties competitively to attract buyers in a market with limited inventory.
Overall, predicting 2024 market trends based on current inventory suggests that the Vancouver real estate market will remain active and competitive. Buyers and sellers should be prepared for a dynamic market and work with experienced professionals to navigate the changing conditions.
Preparing for a Busy 2024 in Vancouver Real Estate
With indications of a busy 2024 in the Vancouver real estate market, buyers and sellers should be prepared for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Here are a few key considerations for preparing for a busy 2024:
Get pre-approved for a mortgage: With increased competition, having a pre-approved mortgage can give buyers a competitive advantage.
Work with an experienced real estate agent: An experienced agent can provide valuable insights and guidance in navigating the competitive market.
Stay informed about market trends and conditions: Regularly monitor market trends, interest rates, and government policies that may impact the real estate market.
Be flexible and adaptable: In a busy market, being open to different neighborhoods or property types can increase your chances of finding a suitable property.
By taking these steps to prepare for a busy 2024 in Vancouver real estate, buyers and sellers can position themselves for success in the market.
Advice for First-Time Home Buyers
For first-time home buyers in Vancouver, navigating the real estate market can be both exciting and challenging. Here are some key pieces of advice:
Get pre-approved for a mortgage: Getting pre-approved for a mortgage will give you a clear understanding of your budget and enable you to act quickly when a suitable property becomes available.
Work with a real estate agent: An experienced real estate agent can guide you through the process, help you find suitable properties, and negotiate on your behalf.
Research neighborhoods and property types: Vancouver offers a variety of neighborhoods and property types. Researching and visiting different areas can help you narrow your options and find the right fit for your needs.
Consider additional costs: In addition to the purchase price, factor in other costs such as property taxes, maintenance fees (if applicable), and closing costs.
Be patient and flexible: The Vancouver market can be competitive, so be prepared for potential bidding wars and be open to different neighborhoods or property types.
By following this advice, first-time home buyers in Vancouver can navigate the real estate market with confidence and make informed decisions.
Guidance for Those Thinking of Upsizing
For those thinking of upsizing their homes in Vancouver, here are some key guidance:
Assess your current and future needs: Consider your current living situation and anticipate your future needs. Upsizing may be necessary if you have a growing family or if you require additional space for work or hobbies.
Determine your budget: Understand how much you can afford to spend on a larger property. Consider your current mortgage, savings, and potential financing options.
Research neighborhoods: Research different neighborhoods in Vancouver to find areas that meet your needs in terms of amenities, schools, and proximity to work or other important locations.
Work with a real estate agent: A real estate agent with experience in upsizing can help you navigate the market, find suitable properties, and negotiate on your behalf.
Consider renovation options: If you love your current neighborhood but need more space, consider the option of renovating your existing home to meet your needs.
By following this guidance, individuals thinking of upsizing their homes in Vancouver can make informed decisions and find the perfect property to meet their growing needs.
Takeaways
In conclusion, the Vancouver real estate market is poised for a busy and exciting year ahead in 2024. Lower inflation rates are expected to have a positive impact on real estate prices, making it an opportune time for buyers and investors. Additionally, lower interest rates are set to boost real estate transactions, creating a favorable environment for both buyers and sellers.
The extension of the foreign buyer ban in Canada will continue to influence the Vancouver real estate market, with market expectations centered around this policy change. Furthermore, the decreasing inventory levels indicate high demand, making it crucial for potential buyers to act swiftly.
Whether you are a first-time homebuyer or considering upsizing, it is important to stay informed and seek guidance from industry professionals to navigate the dynamic Vancouver real estate market successfully.
If you're looking to make a move in the Vancouver real estate market, contact our <a href="https://www.vancouverhousefinders.com/contact/">team of experts </a>for personalized advice and assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Predicted Effects of Lower Inflation on Real Estate Prices?
Lower inflation can lead to more affordable real estate prices in Vancouver. When the cost of living decreases, it becomes easier for individuals and families to enter the real estate market and invest in properties.
How Will Lower Interest Rates Impact the Real Estate Market in 2024?
Lower interest rates in 2024 are expected to boost the real estate market in Vancouver. With more affordable borrowing options, individuals and families will have greater access to credit, leading to increased demand and higher transaction volumes.
How Will the Extended Foreign Buyer Ban Influence the Vancouver Real Estate Market?
The extended foreign buyer ban in Vancouver is expected to influence the real estate market by limiting foreign buyers' participation. This can potentially lead to decreased demand from foreign investors and a shift in market dynamics.
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2024-02-07T17:47:31-07:002024-02-08T12:17:06-07:00Hani Farajtag:vancouverhousefinders.com,2012-09-20:8185Q: 7 Things To Know Sellers Before Selling A House Due To A Divorce
If you’re selling your home due to a divorce, don’t do anything before watching this video.
Today, I’ll cover the seven things that you need to know before selling your home due to a divorce. But, before you start the proceedings or rush into any decisions you’ll later regret, please ensure that you’ve exhausted all the options of coming together with your partner. If you have gone through all the options and can’t find a way to make it work, here are a few tips that could help you save thousands of dollars:
Ensure that the other party is on board. This isn’t necessarily fun, but if both parties know that they’re going to be amicable with each other, they’ll usually end up with more money.
Iron out how much each party will get from the sale. This usually requires dealing with a lawyer, so contact an attorney for legal advice on this matter.
Work with an agent who is experienced with divorce. Some agents make it seem as though they’re the ones going through a divorce, but that’s not the right approach. Your agent should know how to deal with highly emotional situations.
Keep your emotions in check. Keep in mind that the divorce has to happen; focus on the sale, not on getting back at your spouse.
Check Also :
<a href="https://www.vancouverhousefinders.com/blog/how-do-i-know-if-im-ready-to-buy-a-house/">How do i know i am ready to buy a house</a>
<a href="https://www.vancouverhousefinders.com/blog/should-i-get-a-pre-listing-inspection/">Should I Get a Pre-Listing Inspection?</a>
Don’t give visitors to your home any indication of your divorce. Play your cards close to your chest; you don’t want to give people an inch such that they know why you’re selling.
Talk to a mortgage broker. Many people neglect this step, and they eventually have to rush to buy something after the sale is completed.
Focus on the positives. This is a tough time in your life, but it doesn’t need to be stressful. Keep in mind what will happen in the next chapter of your life.
If you have any questions about this or other real estate topics, don’t hesitate to reach out to me. I’d love to hear from you.
<a href="https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=15579442">Schedule a call with me</a>2020-09-01T00:05:00-07:002022-04-20T04:32:41-07:00Hani Farajtag:vancouverhousefinders.com,2012-09-20:5090How often should your agent be communicating with you when selling your home?Q. How often should your agent be communicating with you when selling your home?
A. When you are selling your home, no question is too simple or small. Here’s one. “Will your agent call you or should you call your agent?” and the answer is always YES to both.
Most agents welcome calls from their clients, regardless of the frequency. When <a href="https://www.vancouverhousefinders.com/">selling a home in Vancouver</a>, the number one complaint home owners have is the lack of communication & follow-up from their real estate agent - after the agent has listed the home for sale. In fact, the biggest complaint and frustration coming from sellers that the agent does not return theirs calls and doesn’t give them updates about the changes in the market place as the listing sits on the market longer and longer.
Of course, calling your agent 10 times a day is not recommended and maybe construed as annoying and probably not needed. But things often move fast in this business. If you're in the middle of extreme negotiations or an emergency has risen, for instance when you are closing the deal or there is an issue with the paper work but you are not really sure of what it is, you should be able to call your agent.
Thus, it is very essential for you to stay updated with your agent about the process of buying and selling during the sale of your home.
What can you ask your agent?
If it bothers you, no question is unreasonable. Here are a few topics or questions to ask real estate agents that home buyers or home sellers might have questions about, but any type of real-estate-related question, even if it doesn't fall into one of the following categories, is important to address with your real estate agent:
Property information: the first thing that is needed to know about the property such as what kind of house you want, how can you really know if it’s a good deal, best area to live, and best schools for the kids, etc.
Home prices: they can always help you in knowing the prices that are reasonable and best area and complexes that can be the most profitable in the market and how much you should invest.
Home selling steps: we all know that a lot of us don’t really know what the requirements to sell a house are? for example, legal paperwork, staging, deposits, etc. are important.
Home inspections
Purchase offer presentation
Counteroffer preparation
Offer negotiation
Comparable sales
Repair requests
Seller disclosures
Closing process
How you should ask for help?
Work with one agent
Be direct and ask your agent about terms of exclusivity if you are unsure. Often if you sign a contract with an agent, it is expected that you will only work with him or her. If your agent expects exclusivity, do not communicate with or call other agents. If you find a home that you want to see, contact your agent, not the realtor on the listing. The listing agent works for the sellers, not you the buyer. You hired your agent to find you the right home. Going behind your agent’s back could potentially put you in risk. Also could ruin your client-agent relationship and affect your communication.
Don’t worry about the lingo
No one expects you to know all the ins and outs of real estate vocabulary! Agents want you to feel comfortable, trust them and know just how knowledgeable they are in their field. If you are unsure of something, just ask.
Make your expectations clear:
Your needs should be a list of what you absolutely cannot live without in a house. Your wants should include perks but not deal breakers. Be upfront about your wants and needs so your realtor can easily find exactly what you are looking for in a home. If you aren’t clear with your agent from the beginning, you will waste your time looking at houses that you’ll never purchase.
Don’t be shy!
If you have a question? Ask. None of us are perfect. If you don’t understand anything, you NEED to ask. It’s your time and money you are investing, and you need to clear your doubts.
Trust your realtor
We know it’s not easy. But, if you have taken a step to go out and trust someone to sell your home, might as well trust them to do it well.
<br />Check Also Also :
<a href="https://www.vancouverhousefinders.com/blog/important-questions-to-ask-a-real-estate-agent-during-an-interview-seller-perspective/">Important Questions to Ask a Real Estate Agent During an Interview</a>
When you ask?
I usually call my clients every Monday to let them know what happened in the market the week before and on the weekend’s open houses. You and your agent can decide on one or all of the following methods:
Daily or weekly telephone updates and conference calls with your realtors and contractors. Daily wouldn’t be that required but weekly calls can really help you know the progress.
Email is the most used way of communication in such a professional setting. There are so many realtors who provide email services regarding cases or attractive articles such as tips or references to help you explore your options and help you with the procedure. You can always ask for regular updates or just email on an as-needed basis.
Text messages—best for confirming an appointment or short conversations. I mean everyone is available via text messages. It’s the best way to communicate if you want to convey something short such as dates or any meetings or requirements to be met.
Voicemail messages: When you can’t get a hold of your agent or they can’t get a hold of you, always leave a message and give your agent permission to do the same.
Face-to-face meetings: This is the most preferred way of communication for most people. All doubts can be solved and understood better in person plus handling complex situations in person is often easier.
Some agents don't answer their cell phones, but they return calls once or twice a day at certain times. If that behavior is unacceptable to you, either work out a different schedule with your agent or find another one.
Of course, an extended relationship with your agent through the life of a transaction dictates all modes of communication. The important thing to remember is to set expectations and boundaries such as how late at night do you want to be contacted, how early in the morning is too early, what type of news would you like to hear on the phone or what thing has how much intensity for you. Making clear of when is a text or email appropriate and maintaining your professional boundaries with your real estate agent. And of critical importance, never share financial or personal identification information with anyone electronically unless you verify the receiver first.
The important thing is that you establish the preferred methods your agent likes to use for communication and you find a way to work together that satisfies you both.
Want to have a chat about the property or about your buying or selling needs?
<a href="https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=15579442" target="_blank">Book</a> an appointment today with me and I’d love to help you with your selling.
You can call me anytime.
Hani Faraj
778 881 67812019-07-26T09:36:00-07:002022-04-14T03:45:57-07:00Hani Farajtag:vancouverhousefinders.com,2012-09-20:4483How Long Does It take to sell a HouseQ. How long does it take to sell a house ?
A. The real estate market is an everchanging and volatile field, with no guarantees. The key elements that govern this field are never constant. It’s the dynamic nature of this field that makes it so unpredictable.
In real estate, there is a transaction between a buyer and seller. For a buyer, there’s an array of choices and the wait is for the click, for a buyer to settle on the perfect home. Delays or backlogs are either related to finances or not finding something suitable, but both can be resolved by looking at a different array of properties. The options never stop flowing for a buyer. But in the case of a seller, the situation is quite different.
The process of selling a house or property is quite a complex concept. It is the culmination of many elements including location, valuation, market stance, buyers and the perfect timing. The process cannot be rushed or induced into fast forward just by the will of a broker or by the wish of the seller.
It’s the coming together of these elements that form the selling process. The duration between putting your house onto the market and it gets sold off to a buyer is all dependent on how the selling process unfolds and how the elements in this process interact with one another.
To understand how long does it take sell a house, let’s first understand the process of selling.
In the simplest terms, selling involves a buyer, seller and in many cases related to real estate, a mediator better known as a broker/realtor. This entire process can be split into two, the preparation process and the dealing stage.
The preparation process mainly involves the seller and the realtor. It includes all steps before the inflow of concrete deals, it is everything involved in preparing for the final transaction. The second stage, or rather the dealing stage starts with an offer made by a buyer. Everything post-offer comes in this stage.
The more time-consuming part of the selling process is the preparation stage and here is where a seller can have a certain amount of influence on how long the process will last. Though there is some amount of control you have in speeding up processes in the dealing stage as well, it mainly involves legalities, down-payments, drawing contracts etc., the time duration of which is out of your control.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1084/image/Blog/Steps.jpg" width="5669" height="3653" />
To bring a change in the duration of any step you first need to understand what it entails.
Here are the important steps involved in the preparation process for selling:
1. Choosing an agent: The first step is to choose a listing agent. Do not rush this process, interview, and scan at least four to five agents before selecting one. Make sure to find out all essential details such as how long your house will be listed and the previous track record of the agency.
2. Home valuation: Doing the property valuation of your house is one of the most important steps of the process. It is the step before the actual transaction between a buyer and seller. It is a very essential element that largely affects the sale of your property.
Be sure to go through all the available methods of <a href="https://www.vancouverhousefinders.com/blog/how-to-determine-the-value-of-your-home/">calculating the value of your house</a>. These may include broker valuation methods or online valuation tools, evaluate all methods available to you and choose wisely.
3. Staging & Repairs: This step is considered optional by some sellers. People sometimes prefer not to stage their homes before a sale due them inhabiting it at the same time. While staging is an important step, it can be forgone if the condition of your house is not too bad. But repairs are a must.
Make all necessary adjustments on your doors, in your plumbing, wiring etc because these are the amenities people are on the lookout for.
4. Open House & Marketing: Show your property to the world, and it will be sold. Don’t hesitate in marketing your property. Essential if you have a realtor on board the marketing aspect is taken care of, but even so you can market within your social circles, word of mouth goes a long way in the selling process.
When it comes to <a href="https://www.vancouverhousefinders.com/blog/how-do-you-prepare-for-an-open-house/">hosting an open house</a>, once again if you have a realtor it is taken care of. An open house is basically a real estate event of sorts wherein you keep your doors open for any potential customer who wants to make a property purchase.
There are planned open houses but some sellers even allow people in for a showing without an appointment. This is purely your decision.
5. Offers, offers, offers: Once your property is out there, the waiting game begins. Depending on how well you and the realtor are able to execute the previous stages, and how their effect takes off in the market, offers will come flowing in. With the offer comes the offer value and from there on negotiations begin.
This is the last step of the preparation process. Keep in mind, even if you are closing in on a certain offer, do not stop the inflow of offers until the deal is properly sealed and finalized.
In almost all cases, a realtor is able to come up with a rough estimate of how long does it take to sell a house
They do this after analysing all the decisions and choices you make at every step from the very beginning. Sometimes even the realtor is the reason for the slow sale of your house, thus it is important to make wise choices while selecting the person who will deal with your property sale. Though it's not a calculated deduction, sometimes its pure luck that brings a buyer to a seller.
Essentially there is no hard and fast rule or formula through which you can determine how long it takes to sell a specific property. But as discussed above, there are factors that contribute to it.
Though there is a multitude of internal and external factors, here are some factors on which we have an influence and here’s how you can boost your selling process:
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1084/image/Blog/Competitive_pricing.png" style="vertical-align: middle;" alt="Competitive Pricing" />
1. What is it you sell at?
The price at which you sell your property is the most important element in the selling mix. The process of fixing a price begins at the valuation of your property, post which you determine a price depending on how much percentage profit you want to make added to the condition of the house and the urgency to sell.
This is a very crucial decision that can decide the length of your selling process. The higher the price the longer the time. If a property is priced right, it will sell. Lower rates sell quicker, overpriced properties have an undetermined time limit.
It’s best to set your price just a tad bit lower than the other houses in the market or create other attractive offers to entice customers into making offers. Once you have offers flowing, competition between buyers raises the prices automatically.
2. Location is everything.
The geographical area of your property plays an important role in the sale. Make sure to mention any and all amenities available in your locality while marketing your house. Some important amenities include hospitals, schools, and playgrounds. Highlight to your buyer the connectivity of your area to highways, transport facilities, airports etc.
Always remember, its not only the house that sells, it’s the lifestyle. A person is interested in everything that a house has to offer, including its neighbourhood.
3. How it looks is how it is.
Though people sometimes refrain from staging their house for a sale, it’s like they say, the first impression is the last impression. Staging your house and decorating removes the troubles of a potential buyer to imagine how the house will like their home.
Visuals are a very powerful tool and staging helps to play that to its best potential. Create a story for your customer and make them wish they are the characters that play in it!
It's undeterminable to give an Average time to sell a house with market conditions and competitors' offers constantly fluctuating. But if you use the aspects that you are in control of and go forward with the selling process, it helps decrease the timeline.
Keep an eye out for opportunities to market your property and never lose hope, every house will find its owner!
Want to have a chat about the property or about your buying or selling needs?
<a href="https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=15579442" target="_blank">Book</a> an appointment today and let me know how I can help you.2019-01-02T11:37:00-07:002022-04-12T02:50:20-07:00Hani Farajtag:vancouverhousefinders.com,2012-09-20:4476What Is A Bully Offer?Q. What is a bully offer?
A. A bully offer is a common term for what is known as a pre-emptive offer.
A pre-emptive offer is as the name suggests, an offer made by a buyer to a seller before the pre-determined offer date set by the seller. In such an offer situation, the buyer approaches the seller at an earlier date with a higher price offer than the already set price.
It is generally an assumed stimulation in such an offer that the offer made by the buyer is a one time offer with a very short time frame. These offers generally have a negative connotation in the field of real estate due to the controversy they cause. Sellers are often confused as to the correct response to bully offers made and of course, other buyers deem it unfair.
From a buyers perspective, a bully offer if accepted is obviously beneficial to them. But the question remains, why not wait for the prescribed date to make the offer? A buyer making a bully offer can choose to do so for a multitude of reasons.
Here’s some clarity on some of the reasons a buyer would put forth a bully offer:
1. Ignore the competition.
A bully offer is presented to a seller before the actual date that sellers are going to review buyer offers. This means that the offer is the first and only offer made to the seller at that given point of time. Buyers sometimes do not want to get into the hassle of bidding and out-bidding other potential buyers during the sale of a property.
Sometimes, once they’ve settled on the decision to buy a house, they want to close the deal without any fight. A bully offer assures a clean slate from any competition or fight.
2. I want it and I want it now.
Sometimes buyers are unable to close the deal on buying the house for a multitude of reasons, but none being the lack of trying. Other buyers winning the final deal or loan transactions falling short often lead to a buyer not being able to settle onto any deal. Exasperation from the volatile nature of the real estate business also leads buyers to sometimes proposition a bully offer on the next house they have their eyes on.
They want it bad and don’t mind breaking a few rules to get it, even if they need to mint out a bit of extra cash!
Generally bully offers pop up in the market when demand is not being met with supply. There are too many buyers on the market but not enough homes to buy. In such situations, people become restless which in turn leads to the creation of such offers.
It is simple really if the demand for houses is low your chances of getting the house at the usual offer-making period are high. In such a scenario, a bully offer is unnecessary. It is in a hot market wherein bully offers pop-up.
So for a buyer, the question then arises, is it wise to make a bully offer and if so how?
First and foremost you must understand what a bully offer entails. Such an offer is made at a higher price than the listing price. The nature of the offer is such that it includes no conditions and no negotiations. This isn’t a hard and fast rule but is generally followed in such offers.
It’s important to note that you must be able to pay a down-payment upfront. The price is generally non-negotiable if the seller is unhappy they can wait for the actual offer-making date.
Bully offers have a set time frame. The offer stands for a limited period of time and this is made clear when the offer is made. This rule is generally made so that sellers do not pursue other such offers at the same time, which is counter-productive because avoiding competition is one of the main advantages of bully offers.
As a buyer, one must first observe the market and decide if making a bully offer is necessary. If so, a buyer needs to be confident while making such an offer. Keep your documents in place and make sure you are financially strong enough to swoop into such a deal. Bully offers cannot be based on dwindling decisions.
While having negotiations, a realtor/buyer should know how many demands they can make and where it is that they have to accept what they get. It is not advisable for people inexperienced in the real estate market to go forth with such offers.
Now that we’ve observed a bully offer from a buyer’s perspective, let us look at it from a seller's angle.
Say suppose you are a seller, you have set a date wherein you will review all offers on a particular property, but you receive an offer from a buyer prior to this already determined date. Will you take the offer?
Many sellers are often left with this same question, and find it difficult to come up with an answer. They get confused on whether to wait it out or take the higher rate before the offer expires. A bully offer puts a seller in a spot, making it difficult to make a correct decision.
Here is a seller’s true dilemma when it comes to bully offers:
Should I take the leap?
Sellers often swing between waiting for the offer-date and jumping onto the present opportunity. While waiting seems like the systematic way, an enticing offer is in front of the seller pulling them to the opposite side. Either way, the seller is left with what if they wish they had the answer to.
2. Is it high enough?
A bully offer has a higher rate than the set offer rate. It is one of the main attractive features of such an offer. But it leaves the seller thinking if its high enough to ditch the offer-date, with the thought in mind that there could be higher bids if she/he waits it out.
3. Please close the gates.
Often what happens is that when a seller takes into consideration a bully offer, a flood of other offers starts flowing in. But due to the time barricade that bully offers have, there is often no time to review the available offers. This puts sellers in a tough and confusing spot.
There is no right decision when it comes to bully offers.
Accepting a bully offer involves a lot of careful planning and thinking. Make sure to read all stimulations of the offer before considering it. If the idea of receiving and dealing with bully offers gives you too much stress, inform your realtor that you do not accept any such offers.
Do not burden yourself with the what-ifs of a bully offer if you cannot or do not want to deal with it. As a seller, you should know the valuation of your house and look at the price offer made in the bully offer you can decide if it is worth considering.
When it comes down to it, legally a bully offer is allowed.
But if rules are set claiming no allowance of such offers, realtors are supposed to abide by it to be fair to all. It isn’t unethical to place or accept a bully offer, that is a matter of perspective but it is important to make an informed decision. Rash or hasty decisions can only be loss-making for any or all parties concerned.
For a seller, it is advisable to consider such deals when the price offer is especially high or the market is slow. For a buyer, it is advisable to place such deals in a high demand low supply situation or if you have found the perfect house and want to guarantee that it becomes your home.
Want to have a chat about the property or about your buying or selling needs?
<a href="https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=15579442" target="_blank">Book</a> an appointment today and let me know how I can help you.2018-12-26T14:40:00-07:002018-12-26T16:38:24-07:00Hani Farajtag:vancouverhousefinders.com,2012-09-20:4474Internet-Based Home Evaluation Tools: Are They Reliable?Q. Do internet-based evaluation tools provide accurate measurements of my home/condo value?
A. The answer every eager seller is looking for when entering the realms of the real estate market is to the heavy question ‘What is the exact valuation of my house, apartment, or property?’.
The most important factor for a buyer and even more so for a seller is the money value of a property. The real estate market depends on the transactions between a buyer and a seller, and the higher the sell the better it is for a broker. Any person looking to sell their home has a monetary motive behind it, the higher they can take the bid, the more beneficial it is for them.
Therefore, it comes as no surprise that in the real estate world, free home evaluations are an essential part of every dealing. The first step for a seller, which is present to the actual buying-selling process is calculating the worth of a given house. Anyone looking to take a property off of their hands first looks for methods through which they can <a href="https://www.vancouverhousefinders.com/blog/how-to-determine-the-value-of-your-home/">determine the value of their property</a>.
This step can be carried out through multiple techniques available in the real estate market. They come in a wide range, starting from broker valuation methods, agencies that deal in such valuations or internet valuation tools.
<a href="https://www.backatyou.com/home-value/F1520B72-5957-45B3-87D4-D43D76E97C48?cc=1kud9" title="How much is your home worth?" target="_blank"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1084/image/Blog/Home_Value.png" width="769" height="400" alt="How much is your home worth? Click here to find out." title="How much is your home worth? Click here to find out." /></a>
Broker valuation method is a process wherein you approach a real estate broker and sign up for his/her services to get a proper value of your property. In such a method, brokers essentially take a look at the property, the key elements of the locality and using their expertise and the current value of the market provide a certain figure to the customer.
The second method is through agencies, wherein you contact a real estate agency and they provide you a realtor for the valuation. Its workings are the same as the broker valuation method.
Internet valuation tools are basically applications available online wherein you can put in the area and location of your property and it will generate your valuation instantly.
It is established that there are multiple wars to go about the valuation of your house, but often sellers are stuck in a dilemma, with a broker providing one rate, an agency providing another and online methods showing completely different results, which method can one truly trust? And why, if the property is the same, are there different valuation results?
These pressing questions need answers, and sellers are stuck with so many aspects to inspect but in so little time. The market is volatile and being stuck at the valuation stage for too long can be hazardous. So here’s some clarity on the issue.
The results you receive on a calculate depends on the numbers you type in. Similarly, the valuation of a house is a result of the information that goes into calculating it.
Realtors and agencies use the same kind of data but their results can be influenced by biases or human error. A software technique completely ignores the real elements of a property such as changes in a neighbourhood and can, therefore, be inaccurate. Thus, different methods sometimes show different results.
Check Also: <a href="https://www.vancouverhousefinders.com/sellers/pricing-your-home/">Tips for Pricing your home</a>
There is no right answer on which one you can trust but rather a choice to make in deciding which method has a higher level of accuracy.
Traditionally, valuations were done by the broker method, whose results were, in the past, considered the ultimate word. People never cross-verified the final valuation and this often led to people being fooled into settling for a lower value than the actual value of the property.
But if the alternative is online house valuation, the question then remains, is this method any better than the previous? Or is it the same thing all over again, but now, with the risk of your credentials getting lost or misused in the large abysses of what we call the world wide web?
Internet evaluation methods are presented in the form of a software that can either be accessed on a website or through a downloaded application on your device, be it your laptop or your smartphone.
AVM, which is the abbreviation for ‘Automated valuation model’ is a real estate valuation model that provides properties valuations using large content available on their database combined with various pre-set algorithms. They are fast and easily available to anyone and everyone who wishes to access them, at any location at any time.
While the working and format of various AVMs may differ from one another, the general format is to do a comparative analysis of present-day home values and provide you a valuation for your property for that given point of time.
AVMs use public data in their home evaluations and as their number of users increase, their database broadens. With the market booming and there being a large influx of people making transactions within the real estate market, there seems to be no problem in this area. The reason more and more people are moving towards online methods of valuation can be narrowed down to one single word: Trust.
People’s entire lives depend on the sale of their property and the demand for an unbiased, fair evaluation is what has kept this internet valuation software thriving today. Having said that, this method, in spite of being unbiased, is not free from its faults.
Like any other real estate value evaluation system, even automated ones have their own set of limitations. One of the largest limitations is the dependency on data. The accuracy of AVMs is mainly dependant on the amount of data present in the database. The larger the database, the higher the accuracy.
Essentially what the program does is that, when a user inputs the information they have (address of the property) and asks for the information they need (valuation of said property), the software collects all the data related to the area, the geographical location, neighbourhood reviews, basic facilities, amenities, special features, general valuation of neighbouring properties etc. and putting all of this together, calculates a valuation.
One of the main advantages of using such a valuation technique is the decrease in manual labour for a broker. It reduces the time and is also a very cost-effective method compared to broker valuation methods. It aims at cancelling out the shortcomings of a physical broker property valuation.
Internet-based property valuation tools have both positive and negative aspects to them. Here are 3 reasons why you should go ahead with this valuation method for your home:
Quick & Easy
Internet tools can be downloaded onto your laptop or smartphone and can be used at any time. It’s easy to navigate these applications and it comes with an easy set of instructions to make your valuation experience user-friendly. The results are almost instant and if the area you’re searching is slightly obscure, you will receive a mail or update with the required information within a few days max.
2. Cheap & Best
Most of the available property valuation applications or software are free of charge or have a minimum subscription fee. In comparison, manual valuation turns out to be a far more expensive proposition.
3. Let’s get the stakes down
Automation valuation methods are low-risk methods of valuation. Technology completely overshadows the possibilities of human error, be it intentional or unintentional. The software has pre-determined formulas that access data accurately, and there is no outside factor that can affect the results of your house valuation.
But with its numerous advantages enter the disadvantages of internet valuation tools. The most prominent one being ‘inconclusive data’. The primary raw material for results is data.
Often in such technologies, the software is unable to capture the exact condition of the property, thus leaving the results inaccurate. Also, removing the human element can lead to the ignorance of factors that technology cannot provide. These may include future changes in the neighbourhood or locality. To combat this issue many applications, attach user reviews of the area along with your valuation.
At the end of the day, we can come to the conclusion that in spite of its disadvantages, automated tools for the valuation of your property are a viable option. With the advancements in technology, the accuracy and efficiency of these tools will only increase. The method is popularly used in the market for all the right reasons, now it is in your hands what technique you would like to adopt.
As it is popularly said, your house, your rules!2018-12-17T16:19:00-07:002022-04-12T04:56:42-07:00Hani Farajtag:vancouverhousefinders.com,2012-09-20:4368Should I Let Someone Look At My Home Without An Appointment?Selling a house is an anxiety-filled task for any homeowner. It’s their home on the market, and with a large proportion of their wealth tied up in the property, smooth sales are a dream come true. In simple words, for the seller, the buyer is king. A seller tries their best to make their prospective buyers as comfortable as possible, hoping for a sale.
While it is important to keep your potential customer happy, what’s the limit till which you can extend favours or curtsies? Many times, sellers face difficulties when buyers make demands that can’t be met. Sellers feel pressured into making decisions that would go against what they want, just so they can keep their customers happy.
But sometimes, it’s important to evaluate just how much you let happen in regards to the buyer’s request. While every seller’s goal is a fast and smooth sale, inconveniencing yourself is sometimes not worth it. Often, when a buyer requests something, sellers feeling conflicted and don’t know how to say no. One such instance is a request for an impromptu showing by a prospective buyer. This puts the seller in a spot. On the one hand, the buyer is showing enthusiasm and is interested enough to want to immediately see the property. On the other hand, though, the seller has to make a lot of adjustments & compromises to make such a showing happen.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1084/image/Pros-and-Cons-768x621.jpg" width="768" height="621" />
While there is no right or wrong answer as to how one can deal with this situation, evaluation is necessary. Let us discuss the pros and cons of letting a prospective buyer have a spontaneous showing without a prior appointment with the realtor or owner.
PROS:
They sealed the deal!
Every person that walks onto your property could be the one who finally signs the agreement and helps take a property off your hands. When a prospective buyer views your house, appointment or not, your probability of sale is increasing. Statistics show that 50% of buyers, once turned down for a showing, do not return to view it again.
Spreading the word.
Whenever a client looks at your property, their retaining details. Letting the person see the property without prior appointment appears as a personal favour and thus increases goodwill with the client. A comfortable client trusts you more, thus increasing the chances of a sale. Not only that, even if a person doesn’t buy the property, every happy client, even if they turn you down, is a marketer. In community-based societies, word of mouth is a strong marketing tool, that can take you a long way.
CONS:
Security
This is one of the most important and strong reasons as to why a seller should turn down impromptu appointments, even at the stake of a sale. Through appointment, one knows whom they're getting into their house or potentially going into dealings with. While you may not know a great deal about them, basic details are shared between buyers & sellers, unless it’s an open house. By agreeing to impromptu visitations, you will be trying to make a sale at the stake of your safety. If you feel uncomfortable, refuse.
Privacy
In spite of what buyers may believe, sellers do not sit by the door, waiting for potential clients to knock, so that they can go about trying to sell their property. Sellers lead a normal daily life just like everyone else. This means that a random visit interrupts their schedule, and largely invades their privacy. Often one feels conflicted as to whether to go about their daily routine or make way for a potential customer, even if it is an inconvenience.
During such visits, sellers often don’t even get the time to put away personal belongings
Or valuables, which they would otherwise do.
Missing in Action!
Most sellers have real estate agents who help them to put a property out on the market. These agents help attract potential buyers to help seal the deal. Generally, showings are scheduled by both the real estate agent & the seller personally, but sellers prefer to have the agent present, no matter where the client has been acquired. Agents help in describing the amenities in the property, the attractions of the neighbourhood and handle negotiations with buyers, if necessary.
It is often preferred by prospective buyers that the seller isn’t around while they are viewing the house. Seller’s bias to their own property restricts the buyer to express their concerns about the place. In such situations, the real estate agent steps in, the seller make themselves scarce and the buyer can happily have her/his viewing.
The problem with agreeing to the request is that, if a seller agrees to show a property without an appointment, they may not have the time to call their agent and even if they do, their agent may not be free to come help with the deal.
Make one decision, stick to it.
As a seller, all prospective buyers are equal for you. Conducting impromptu showings defies the purpose of scheduling appointments in the first place. By allowing this, a seller will make a reputation for themselves and this may lead to people believing every day is like an open house day.
Zero set up time.
Generally, before showing a property to a prospective customer, one does many tasks, such as, cleaning the house, maintaining an ideal temperature in the room, keeping flyers handy for them to take home, lightly decorating the property, creating a warm ambience etc. An impromptu showing robs you of the opportunity to prepare and impress. Also, one does not get the time to keep documentation in place, in case the client wants to see any.
While it’s clear that the cons in the situation outweigh the pros of the situation, this doesn’t necessarily mean that the answer to the question is that simple. The points above indicate that while letting someone in may lead to a potential sale, it’s after keeping a lot of things at stake that it will have been done.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1084/image/pros-and-cons2.jpg" width="768" height="506" />
It’s up to you as to what you finally decide to do, but here are some things to consider that might help you out.
Is your safety & privacy more important than a sale? Are you comfortable making deals without your agent being around? Are you comfortable allowing an unknown person into your house to see the property? Is it a personal favour? Is it unfair to other prospective clients who have come and gone on the basis of appointment?
Once you answer these questions, you will automatically get your answers. Don’t be scared about offending a potential buyer by refusing the request, it’s your home, your comfort matters most. If you feel comfortable doing a showing without an appointment, then go ahead. But do not agree into situation due to stress or anxiety of the property not selling.
Evaluate all the pros and cons. Do what you think is best for you.
Make a wise and informed decision.2018-09-25T23:21:00-07:002018-10-25T12:06:39-07:00Hani Farajtag:vancouverhousefinders.com,2012-09-20:4163Why You Should Consider Selling in the Winter<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1084/image/selling-in-the-winter-attracts-serious-buyers.jpg" alt="Selling In Winter Attracts Serious Buyers" title="Selling In Winter Attracts Serious Buyers" height="410" width="750" />
The season you sell your home can have an impact on how much you get for your home and how quickly it sells. The season that has the most success in selling homes is spring. This is a good time of year for families moving to new school districts and is also more convenient weather for moving. Because of this trend, most people will recommend waiting to list your home until after the winter is over. Avoiding the winter is a huge misconception in the housing industry and can cause homeowners to miss out on opportunities.
Selling in the winter can give you a few advantages. There will be fewer houses on the market since most people assume winter is a bad time to sell. This gives your home more attention. Potential buyers are always looking no matter the time of year. Keeping your house on the market in the winter might bring the right buyer to your door. Real estate agents also tend to be less busy during these months and commit more time to getting your home sold.
Studies have shown winter buyers are buying because they need to move right away either for a relocation or personal situation. They will want to close quickly and allow for a much smoother sale.
Bottom Line
If you need to sell your home right away, or have some time but want to see what is out there, consider listing in the winter. Most homeowners who are going to sell will list their home in the spring, making for a competitive market. The winter allows buyers who are in a hurry to move consider your home and sell for more money than you would have in the spring.2018-09-17T10:18:00-07:002018-10-25T12:10:43-07:00Hani Farajtag:vancouverhousefinders.com,2012-09-20:4367How To Determine The Value Of My House?Every investment is a worthy investment. One that we make only after weighing all the options possible and charting up a pros and cons list. It’s the same whether you invest in stocks, diamonds or your very open home!
When it comes to stocks or commodities, it is very easy to find out the true value, just look it up online! But, when it comes to real estate, the issue is a little tricky.
The answer may seem simple. The value of my house would be worth how much a person is willing to buy it for. Well, I would like to buy it for just 10 bucks, possible?
No way!
But, is the value so determined by a lender, agent or tax assessor correct? Can you trust them?
Well, knowing your own home’s value helps you to buy, sell and re-finance efficiently. This can be achieved with a mix of online tools, trained professionals and some common sense.
Here are 5 ways to Calculate a Home Value
Online Valuation Tools
Though there are many online tools which will pop up in your google search, such as the Automated Valuation Model so provided by the big real estate or lender sites. This tool basically uses a mix of mathematical modelling and public records about taxes, deeds of ownership to arrive at a specific number.
But, is this accurate? Like they say, you cannot trust the internet.
Most of these tools are meant only for marketing and lead generation because of which the accuracy can be a hit or a miss.
But, the tools so used by established lenders and real estate agents is different. These tools use a “confidence score” to indicate how close the AVM provider thinks an estimate is to market value. A confidence score of 90% means the estimate is within 10% of market value, for example, though each AVM has its own way of calculating confidence.
Another option is to opt for a professional-grade AVM with confidence is linked to a much better accuracy but you need to do your research before you start running for it.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1084/image/Home-Value-768x399.jpg" width="768" height="399" />
How much is your home worth? <a href="https://www.backatyou.com/home-value/F1520B72-5957-45B3-87D4-D43D76E97C48?cc=1kud9" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Click here</a> to find out
2. Broker Price Opinion is gold!
When you are getting serious about your home value, at least more than googling it out, it is a safe bet to approach a local real estate agent and ask for a Broker Price Opinion, BPO for short.
As the name suggests, it is not a professional report or appraisal but it is an agent’s opinion about the home’s value vis-à-vis the market and what it will hopefully fetch once listed.
Though pretty useful, be sure to factor in the fact that this opinion is given with a tiny bit of hope that you will hire them as your selling agent. So, Beware!
3. Use the <a href="https://www.crea.ca/housing-market-stats/mls-home-price-index/hpi-tool/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HPI Calculator by CREA</a>
You can always trust a credible source like the Canadian Real Estate Association which has its own House Price Index Calculator and applies a much more scientific approach without any hidden intent.
The calculator tracks a house’s change in value from one sale to the next. Then it uses this information to estimate how values fluctuate in a given market. This is a much easier way to track the growth of your home over time.
It may sound amazing, but you need to also keep in mind that this <a href="https://www.crea.ca/housing-market-stats/mls-home-price-index/hpi-tool/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HPI calculator</a> and the way it is designed will also look at conforming home mortgages and does not account for inflation or seasonal changes.
But, if you have a conforming mortgage, this is a pretty good idea to find calculate home value
4. Professional Appraisal
Though we slightly touched upon this point earlier, professional appraisals are a pretty popular option. Many lenders by law require an appraisal to approve the mortgage. But, you can also choose this option any time.
These professionals can value the home according to your need, be it the value of your home on a specific date, its current market value for a re-finance or purchase.
How is a professional appraisal different?
These appraisals account for many other factors left out by previous options such as the:
Market – the region, city and neighbourhood.
Characteristics – Value of land, improvements, renovations
Comparable properties – On other listings, sales, cost, depreciation and so on.
This data is combined to create a final opinion of determine home value and delivered in an official report.
5. Comparable Properties
Be it the AVM tool or professional appraisals, they often rely on very important variable which is the sale of comparable properties.
By analysing comparable properties to the mix, one can determine the market value without paying an appraiser, but you have to use good judgment. We are here to tell you how. You need to use an “apples to apples” approach.
Here are a few steps:
Browse recent sales online – You can use your local MLS service to find comparable properties
Use at least 3 properties – This helps get a good range
Use logic - You’ll need to adjust for differences between your home and the comparable properties. This can be in terms of interior, improvements, and so on. So add and subtract accordingly.
After adjusting values, look at your highest and lowest comparable properties. A rough estimate of your home value is somewhere in the middle.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.vancouverhousefinders.com/blog/how-long-will-it-take-to-sell-my-home/" title="how long does it take to sell a house">How long does it take to sell a house</a>
Why do you need to stress on the value of your home?
By knowing your home’s value, you will be able to understand and analyse what you can afford, determine whether a listing is priced appropriately and decide how to price your own home when you wish to sell or buy.
But, the pros just don’t end there. By finding the value of your home, you will be able to analyse the options of refinancing, insurance premiums and property taxes based on home value.
You get to choose the way your home is treated in terms of any process, be it the taxes or buying and selling.
Don’t you want that?
Just buy following a few easy steps, you can gain control over your home and make choices that you will be proud of in the future when you look at how much you save! In terms of money and time.
Want to have a chat about the property or about your buying or selling needs?
<a href="https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=15579442">Book</a> an appointment today with Mr. Hani Faraj and be relieved of any stress.
<a href="https://admin.clientlinkt.com/admin/clientapps/widget/59020" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Try our free app!</a> This free app has property search, property listings, mortgage calculator, and allows you direct contact with your local agent BCHOUSEFINDERS.COM and preferred service providers like #mortgage brokers, #insurance providers, and find offered #discounts !
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1084/image/bchousefinders-app-768x375.png" width="768" height="375" />2018-09-12T22:15:00-07:002022-04-12T00:16:58-07:00Hani Farajtag:vancouverhousefinders.com,2012-09-20:4365What Can I Do To Get Ready To Move?So you have finally sold your house or bought one. Or, you are in the process of doing one of the either. First off, congratulations! It’s a huge milestone to have been able to buy/sell a home.
Among the celebrations, you might have experienced the panic of having to move! Hence, the google search and your eventual landing up on this article.
Well, fear not. Having been in the real estate industry for a while now, we have accumulated a few tips that will help you move with ease and even save some money while doing so!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1084/image/Move-out.JPG" width="587" height="392" />
The following moving tips are meant to help you stay focused, organized and have a stress-free and seamless move to your new home!
1. Calculate Your Moving Costs
Before you start off in full force with regards to your move, sit down and calculate what you are willing to spend towards your move to help you abide by it along the way.
If you are looking to hire a professional service or do the heavy lifting on your own, you will need to factor in a lot of expenses. Everything comes with a price tag and can quickly add up unless planned for properly.
Here’s a look at some of the costs you can consider:
Hiring movers/renting a truck
Moving boxes, tape, padding
Undue bills in your old home
Travel costs to your new home and so on
2. Change your address before you move!
One of the most important tips, ensure that you change your address before you move. Take a section of your journal and note down all the essential utilities, organizations and people whom you may need to contact prior to moving. This would include setting up address changes through your postal service, forwarding mail for at least the first month or two, setting up electricity, telephone lines, cable, etc.
Also, make sure you update your new address with the <a href="http://www.icbc.com/driver-licensing/moving-bc" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ICBC</a>, the <a href="https://www.canadapost.ca/web/en/products/details.page?article=forward_your_mail_wh" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Canada Post</a>, the insurance companies and with any other company that sends you bills (<a href="https://www.bchydro.com/accounts-billing/moving-electrical-connections/move-in-out.html#move" target="_blank" rel="noopener">BC Hydro</a>, <a href="http://www.telus.com/get-help/account-and-billing/register-and-manage-your-account/ffh/moving/support.do" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Telus</a>, <a href="https://shaw.ca/secure/easy-move/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Shaw cable/internet)</a> . Also ensure to include your doctors, dentists etc. These professionals will be able to refer you to someone in the new city that you will know and hence it will be handy.
3. Hire a moving company
Though as humans, we have the tendency to wanting to do everything on our own, hiring a moving company will relieve you of your stress. Depending on the distance that needs to be travelled as well as the amount of heavy furniture or bulky items you have to move, it is a very smart decision to hire the services of a professional company.
Don’t be afraid to shop around and get multiple quotes so as to make the right decision. Ensure that you go over insurance policies to figure out the coverage and so on. Don’t just pick the cheapest moving company as that can lead to disastrous results. You don’t want an unprofessional company moving the most essential things of your life.
4. Fix up your new place before moving in
It is always hard to move into a new place and it does require time and patience. But, moving into a home that requires a lot of repairs, painting, cleaning etc is a nuisance, especially if you have kids.
Hence, if you have some time, take a few rounds to your new home and inspect it for the jobs that need to be done. Find out quotes from nearby professionals or from your agent to get the jobs done. Be sure to allow a day or two to complete them before the move.
By doing so, it will make it easier to access and fix the problems before you start the moving process. It will help you have a stress free moving day filled with a lot of memories instead of panic attacks.
5. Plan your new rooms and pack accordingly
As a proud owner of a new home, you would have undoubtedly inspected it in advance and had some dreams of how you would organize it. These dreams can be put into action faster if you follow a simple tip.
Before you pack up your exiting home, plot out what will fit where and how in the new location to give you a better sense of placement. This can help you come up with a plan for which items should be packed first, last, or discarded. By having this in place, you will be able to unpack faster and be much more efficient.
There is absolutely nothing more stressful than shifting heavy furniture in a new home multiple times just because you have no idea where you should put what!
These five tips, though may seem logical are true life savers. By following these tips, you will be able to have a successful move that you will remember for days to come. A successful move is determined by the kind of planning and execution you put into it. You have bought a home. Now, it is time to make memories in it.
Want to have a chat about the property or about your buying or selling needs?
<a href="https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=15579442">Book</a> an appointment today with Mr. Hani Faraj and be relieved of any stress.2018-08-03T00:02:00-07:002018-10-18T13:10:41-07:00Hani Farajtag:vancouverhousefinders.com,2012-09-20:4364Do I Need a FOR SALE sign board for my property?Recently, it has come to our attention that there are a lot of people in the market at the moment that don’t have a for sale sign board outside their homes.
The newspapers and shop windows are now outdated and people are turning to the internet to start their search for their next property. The rise of the digital world has changed a lot of things we do. Rather than actually speaking to our friends, we tell them what we are up to by posting updates and pictures on social media. We shop online, chat online, even date online. But what about buying and selling houses online?
Before the internet took over the world, people would search for houses by visiting high street estate agents and seeing what they had to offer. But now, it is estimated that 95% of people begin their home search online.
With the ever-mounting use of online marketing, is there still a place for the traditional humble For Sale board?
Sometimes, for sale sign boards are seen as a nuisance. The thought of neighbors knowing you’re moving and might gossip about it is frustrating at times. You might get strangers come knocking on your door and making inquiries about your house but that’s secondary.
Check Also : <a href="https://www.vancouverhousefinders.com/blog/how-do-you-prepare-for-an-open-house/">How do you prepare for Open an House ?</a>
No doubt the board outside your house helps your estate agent with brand awareness too, but so what?
We hear many reasons why property owners don’t want a sale board:
“I don’t want to worry the gardener”
“I don’t want my neighbors knowing”
“we don’t get a lot of passing traffic”
There are many pros and cons for putting up a for sale sign which you need to look up for before deciding you want a sign or not.
WHY WOULDN’T YOU?
Not to deny, for sale sign can be seen as an annoyance, a tacky eyesore that helps to blight the look of an area. We often hear stories of local residents and councils being opposed to for sale sign, particularly if there are streets filled to the brim with them. There are also often complaints that for sale sign are left up too long, even once a property has been sold.
What’s more, many people see boards as antiquated and without purpose in an increasingly digital world. The majority of people head online when it comes to browsing for property. Gone are the days where people drive past a for sale sign and immediately pounce on this initial interest. Word of mouth is no match for the power of the internet, where potential buyers can search for thousands of properties at the click of a button. The internet allows property to be advertised on local, national and global basis 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and 365 days a year.
If your property can receive huge levels of exposure on the major property portals, is there really any need for a for sale sign? Are there really enough buyers out there who might see your for sale sign by chance and subsequently show an interest in your home? Is it worth it?
WHY WOULD YOU?
If you are on the market trying to sell your property, should you have a for sale board?
Yes, you 100% should.
If you’re selling your home then no doubt you will want to sell it for the best possible price, in the shortest possible time frame- everybody does! The way we see it is that all exposure is good exposure and if you really want to get your property sold, then having a board up outside can only be a good thing. Usually, 7% of all the enquiries are a result of boards outside properties and whilst one may argue that’s a small percentage, its still almost 1 in 10 of all the enquiries. It is potential, where extra viewing or two of your property wouldn’t really harm with someone having spotting your board. Sometimes people spot a board outside, like the house and will like request for the needed information whereas perhaps also the things which didn’t appear on websites under this criterion and so often we find people end up buying properties that are totally different to their initial ideas.
Check Also :<a href="https://www.vancouverhousefinders.com/blog/how-long-will-it-take-to-sell-my-home/"> Average time to sell a house ?</a>
Now you and I both know that virtually all buyers will search online for property these days and so many don’t see the need to have a for sale board but there are many reasons which are valid to have one.
For instance, people still do jump in the car on a Sunday and drive around areas they would be interested in buying in to get a ‘feel for the area’. Friends and family from outside the area visiting the family may well be ‘thinking’ of moving to your area but not actively looking and the fact your house is on the market may just spur them to take the next steps. Having a board can attract the ‘opportunist buyer’ too that is the buyers who aren’t actively looking but would be interested if your house popped up on the market. Also, without one you cannot say you are ticking every box and doing everything possible to find a buyer as quickly as possible for the highest possible price.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1084/image/FOr_sale.jpg" />
There are more reasons why we suggest you have a for sale board:
A very high percentage of buyers will drive into an area or a specific street they want to live in live in and will quickly look for for sale boards- we wouldn’t be surprised if you chose your last home by this method?
If you look at it from a buyer’s point of view, when they enter the street we want them to concentrate immediately on your property and nobody else’s. There’s nothing worse than a potential buyer trying to find a property and then they see something else that puts them off the street or worse still, they see a neighboring property for sale?
If you think about it this also applies to a potential purchaser that we may have already spoken to or may have already seen the property on the internet- we want them to be able to <a href="https://www.vancouverhousefinders.com/property-search/search-form/">find the property immediately</a>.
It goes without saying that if your potential buyer can’t immediately cast their eyes on your property because there’s no for sale board then you run the risk of them missing yours and looking at the next available property on their list.
It is also extremely important at the viewing appointment stage that the buyer is attracted only to your property when they approach your street- we don’t want your buyer being put off at this point by any other potentially negative distractions.
One final, but very important point is, ‘is this seller serious about selling?’. This is a question that is regularly asked when a board is not present. A quality buyer will only want to offer on a property where the seller is genuinely serious about selling. It’s just one of those things.
As usual with these things, you have to measure the pros and cons and work out if the possible advantages outweigh the downsides. It is generally advised that boards are still a very useful marketing tool and bring extra exposure to your house, but in an age where things are now so heavily revolved around the internet and digital marketing, you have to ask yourselves whether they still have enough relevance.
Well, look again at the instances given above, and decide carefully. Is it worth potentially missing those opportunities for sake of upsetting the gardener or feeding gossip to your neighbors. Your neighbors will soon know you are selling when they see people waiting outside to view your house. It is advised to stop with hesitation as due to that, seller maybe be losing some serious buyers.
The bottom line is- for sale signs matter to some extent and you should have one in your yard when you decide to sell your property.
Want to have a chat about the property or about your buying or selling needs?
<a href="https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=15579442">Book</a> an appointment today with Mr. Hani Faraj and be relieved of any stress.2018-07-20T21:58:00-07:002022-04-13T02:09:45-07:00Hani Farajtag:vancouverhousefinders.com,2012-09-20:4363How Much It Will Cost Of Selling A House ?<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1084/image/account-achievement-bank-870902.jpg" />
Show me the money!
Admit it, that’s what first came to your mind as soon as you started considering selling your house. In fact, chances are that you have already started spending money on the procedure- on a new house you are willing to buy, or maybe even a nice exotic vacation this holiday. Well you need to slow down here. While selling a home can indeed bring in some sweet profits, remember that not every piece goes into your pocket. One who has decided to sell their house also needs to pay the professionals who helps them to unload the property.
So now we come to the main question that I am pretty sure is revolving in your mind: ‘how much does it cost to sell a house'
On an average, home sellers pay their<a href="https://www.bchousefinders.com/blog/why-do-i-need-a-realtor-to-sell-my-house/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> listing agent or realtor</a> a commission amounting to about 6% of the price of their home, although the percentage may vary which might seem like a HUGE chunk of change. But hey? Don’t go assuming you are getting ripped off.
Here is where that money goes, and why it is totally worth it.
Realtor’s Fees for Selling A House :
The average 6 percentage sales commission that most real estate agents get is a high price to pay, especially if you believe economists who say that realtors don’t sell homes for significantly more than the asking price.
If you are not getting much more money when using a real estate broker to sell your house, why use them? Expediency may be the best answer since agents often sell homes faster than homeowners could on their own. A real estate company’s costs aren’t worth paying for, they found, when the MLS assistance is taken out of the agent’s hands. But if you are going to <a href="https://www.vancouverhousefinders.com/sellers/">sell a home</a> and want to pay for an agent’s expertise, there are ways to lower the fee such as:
Go for half: The typical commission is 6%, which is split by the agent for the buyer and the agent for a seller- 3 percent each. But its only paid by the home seller. Tell your potential agent that you will give a 3 percent total commission for selling your house that the agents from each side can split, and your agent can work whatever deal they want when they help you buy another property.
Shop Around: <a href="https://www.vancouverhousefinders.com/blog/important-questions-to-ask-a-real-estate-agent-during-an-interview-seller-perspective/">Interviewing three or more agents</a> is a good way to find out if you get along with an agent and learn how they will sell your home. Some people take a step forward and organize an auction for the chance to sell their property.
Ask what you are getting from your money: Asking how the agent is justifying their higher commission can be a big help. The things they do that other, less expensive agents don’t do. Why should you pay more for their services? For luxury home sales, it can cost more to advertise in publications and websites for the wealthy, or the agent may have more contacts than a cheaper agent does.
Check Also :
<a href="https://www.vancouverhousefinders.com/blog/how-long-will-it-take-to-sell-my-home/">How Long it will take to sell my house ?</a>
<a href="https://www.vancouverhousefinders.com/sellers/marketing-your-home/">Marketing Home to faster selling a house?</a>
Home Repairs
If you are thinking about selling your home, it's likely there are a few things you could do to enhance the appeal of your property and maybe even raise its <a href="https://www.vancouverhousefinders.com/sellers/homeworth/">home worth</a> in every sense. If you have been putting off sprucing up the exterior of your property, painting the inside of the house, repairing the staircase or a leaky faucet, now is the time to get them at work and make those changes.
Also, if the buyer’s home inspector finds problems, such as a leaky roof or bad plumbing, lack of necessary furniture or damaged door knobs, you might have to pay to fix those, as well.
Big repairs can set you back financially, so be prepared for them before you decide to sell, especially if you can expect a problem with your home passing <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dXIOHxiBcbE" target="_blank" rel="noopener">inspection</a>.
Home Staging Cost :
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8x9FK-5jJ9A" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Home staging</a> involves setting up your property in a way that will impress as many prospective buyers as possible. You can stage your home yourself, or you can hire a professional to achieve this. Every home owner has their own style, but a professional home stager will consider current buyer trends and have experience in de-cluttering and presenting a home to sell in today’s market. If you are simply looking for some guidance, a home stager can provide you with a once-off styling consultation to point you in the right direction. If you want to take a step further, ‘partial staging’ is a service provided where the staging professionals will offer room ideas with a selection of trending decoration items, if you have already moved out, certain home staging companies can provide you with a full set of furniture needed to prepare your house for photography and inspections.
Home staging cost can vary depending on if you are simply after a consultation, partial staging, or if you have already moved out and you need furniture to stage your home. Secondly, the size of your property and number of rooms needing to stag will also play a big part.
House Closing Costs And Additional Fees
If you’re selling a home, don’t expect that the final sale price is the amount of money you’ll receive.
That’s because home sellers pay the bulk of the transaction’s closing costs, which can be substantial. However, there are steps you can take to help reduce closing costs and minimize their impact on the profit from the sale of your home. Home closing costs include all fees and charges associated with a home sale beyond the price of the property itself. These costs vary by region, lender and property type, but they typically include appraisal fees, inspection fees, loan origination fees, transfer fees, title search fees and realtor fees for selling house..
While the buyer is required to cover their share of house closing costs when the property closes, the seller’s share is deducted from the amount they received for the sale.
Sharing house closing costs between buyer and seller is subject to negotiation, but typically, the buyer pays the bulk of the fees while the seller pays real estate commissions. It’s also common for the seller to pay government transfer taxes and costs associated with title insurance. Overall, the seller’s share of costs is usually larger, often more than 6 percent of the property’s selling price. Buyers pay an average of 2 percent to 4 percent of the property’s price in closing costs.
It’s nearly impossible to avoid all costs associated with the seller’s share, but there are a few strategies that can reduce or eliminate those that are most expensive.
Legal Fees
Once you have found a buyer, next comes the legal matters which will require the expertise of a lawyer. When you and the buyer have come to an agreement, the buyer will pay you a non-refundable deposit (also known as a booking fee) amounting to 2% of the property’s selling price.
This is when a lawyer fees for selling a house come into the picture.
For the services rendered, the lawyer will charge you a legal fee which is calculated based on the property’s selling price.
A lawyer can help you avoid some common problems with a home purchase or sale. For example, a seller may sign a brokerage agreement that does not deal with several legal problems. This happens quite often; realtors often use standard forms, expecting that they will cover all circumstances or will be easily customizable for unusual circumstances.
In the absence of an agreement to the contrary, the seller may become liable to pay a brokerage commission even if a sale does not occur, or to pay more than one brokerage commission. If the agreement allows the seller the right to negotiate on his or her own behalf, for example, you may avoid this problem. A lawyer can explain the effect of multiple listings. He or she can negotiate the realtor's rights if the seller withdraws the property from the market or can't deliver good marketable title.
The seller should have the advice and guidance of an attorney with respect to a brokerage agreement. Even if the agreement is a standard form, its terms should be explained to the seller and revised, if necessary. An attorney should also determine if the agreement was properly signed.
Real Property Gains Tax
This is where the bulk of the cost is. <a href="https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/tax/individuals/topics/about-your-tax-return/tax-return/completing-a-tax-return/personal-income/line-127-capital-gains/principal-residence-other-real-estate.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Real Property Gains Tax (RPGT)</a> is a tax imposed by the government when you dispose of the property within five years from the date of purchase. With that said, RPGT is not applicable if you have held the property for six years or more.
RPGT is charged only on net gains, meaning the sum after deducting the original purchase price of the property, cost of renovations done to the property, and other costs such as legal costs. In other words, the net gain you made from the sale.
Insurance cost for selling house
Selling a home can be an emotional – and busy – time. Between finding the right agent, keeping your home ‘<a href="https://www.vancouverhousefinders.com/blog/how-do-you-prepare-for-an-open-house/">open home ready</a>’ for viewings and all the paperwork that comes with the sales process, there’s a lot to remember.
You should keep your house insurance in place for as long as you own the property. It can be tempting to cancel your house insurance as soon as your property is sold or goes unconditional but remember you’re the owner right up until settlement.
That means until settlement it’s up to you to insure the property.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1084/image/home-167734_960_720-768x512.jpg" width="768" height="512" />
In the end, that savings to list a home yourself doesn't usually save you any money. In fact, it can cost you in terms of time, stress, and often a lower price for your home.
You know the saying "you get what you pay for"? Well, you also earn what you save. Think long and hard about your limitations in terms of time and expertise before heading down the home-selling path solo. After all, this home sale may be one of the largest financial transactions of your life, so it's not exactly something you should cut corners on with the hopes of saving a few bucks.
Want to have a chat about the property or about your buying or selling needs?
<a href="https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=15579442">Book</a> an appointment today with Mr. Hani Faraj and be relieved of any stress.2018-07-16T21:20:00-07:002022-04-14T03:43:56-07:00Hani Farajtag:vancouverhousefinders.com,2012-09-20:4362Important Questions to Ask a Real Estate Agent During an Interview - Seller's PerspectiveThere’s a reason why nearly 90% of sellers use a listing agent as selling a home takes time, knowledge of neighborhood trends, and negotiating skills. The agent’s chief tasks are to help set the right price and then buyers in the door having the access to the most up to date information about the most recent sales of comparable properties and competing listings in the neighborhood.
These are the basic needs that are needed to be fulfilled by any individual who is selling the property and thus can’t be done alone due to lack of experience. Hence, one needs an agent to help them work through this process.
But again, the question arises, how do I find the perfect agent to sell my property?
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1084/image/41.jpg" width="600" height="400" />
The ideal real estate agent for any individual is the one who plays a key role in its transactions. They should possess the expertise and should be well able to assist you in realty ventures like sale, purchase, lease, sublease, portfolio management, negotiation and so on.
Amidst the realty boom, the back-bone sector is also a haven of fraud malpractices. Since realty transactions is much better with real estate agents, it is also important to choose the ideal real estate agent.
What are the characteristics of an ‘ideal’ real estate agent which every person who is willing to hire should look out for?
A real good agent is similar in nature to a conductor of a symphony, coordinating the different players to make a successful transaction a reality.
Below are some questions which you can ask your agent to further understand their qualities.
Q1 : What are your experience and education? Is this your full-time job?
Though a new agent can certainly be motivated and eager to please, a pro with experience will have the knowledge and skills to face any kind of situation. The question will help you to understand their substantial knowledge and their problem-solving mindset. The realty arena has become mature now that specialized services have emerged like residential, commercial, industrial and retail. So, an ideal real estate consultant should have good knowledge in these different sectors to prove their worth to the client. Their past experiences and their way to handle the situations will speak a lot about their mindset. See if they enjoy coming up with creative solutions for the problems. Many <a href="https://www.vancouverhousefinders.com/about/">successful real estate agents</a> know how to showcase a property to make it more marketable and develop creative listings to attract the right buyers. A part-time agent won’t really bother much to put so much effort to sell your property.
Read Also : <a href="https://www.vancouverhousefinders.com/blog/how-hiring-a-reputed-property-agent-can-prove-to-be-beneficial/" title="How Hiring a Reputed Property Agent can prove to be beneficial?">How Hiring a Reputed Property Agent can prove to be beneficial?</a>
Q2 : How many homes did you sell last year as a seller’s agent?
This interview question has a high level of importance! Do you want to work with a realtor who sells 5 homes a year or someone who sells 25? Don’t be fooled by the agent who does very little business who tells you that you will get better personal service with them. Just remember, there is a reason why they sell only 5 houses. This is a very essential question which most of the sellers forget to ask or never even think of. You need a realtor who has track record of success in good markets and bad. This question indicates their personality and understanding of the local market. An ideal agent doesn’t only sell the property but also themselves. People will only respond to you if you have a great attitude, interest in your work, are personable and honest, have confidence in their abilities and get a sense of fulfillment by others.
Having a true interest in houses and architecture can give you an advantage. The knowledge they have can engage a person in the conversation and also help to be adaptive according to the situations. A top producing real estate agent appreciates and utilizes the nuance that make a specific community’s market and pricing strategy unique.
Check Also :
<a href="https://www.vancouverhousefinders.com/blog/why-do-i-need-a-realtor-to-sell-my-house/">Why Do I need Real-estate Agent</a>
Success comes from identifying and developing a focus or niche in the local real estate market that allows you to distinguish yourself from the competition.
Q3: Are you a member of the national association of realtors? Can I see your references?
Membership in this professional organization is what really allows an agent to use the title ‘realtor’ which means that the person agreed to follow the organization’s ethical guidelines and to keep up with continuing education. An agent’s professional reputation is crucial to a long career. Being a member of <a href="https://www.nar.realtor/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NAR</a> shows that they practice high ethical standards. Successful agents have a vast network of contacts within the market they serve. This list of connections should include other agents, potential sellers and buyers, even brokers.
The amount of contact and publicity will reflect their transparency for the legal parameters and their way of guidance.
The agent should be able to guide to fulfill your requirements. If the client wants a property with specific features, your property should have those minimum features which is their responsibility to look after rather than misleading both of you. This happens when they are interested in their own profit. In some cases, the same property is sold to five different buyers with almost the same property papers provided by the agents. Thus, to avoid such scenarios, starting with negotiation to the final documentation, the deal should be fully transparent so that primary benefit goes to the client.
Not necessary, but a realty agent should possess the legal side of every transaction so they can guide you safely through the process without any chances of intervention of law. And in case, they aren’t aware of the lawsuits, one should have a good network of legal professionals.
Ideally, ask for the names and the contacts. You need to know whether their clients are happy with their work now, not in their past. It is important to know how easy it would be reach them if you have questions or whether they felt supported and advised which only former clients can answer.
Q4 : How will you price and market my home? What are the cons of my property?
There is a lot more to marketing a house than putting up a ‘for-sale’ sign on the lawn. For instance, listing it on websites and advertising it in media fields. An agent should be able to give you some simple advice on how to make your home as presentable as possible. Things like whether or not it would be worthwhile to make an improvement or properly tagging a home for sale. The general improvements to enhance the sale ability. Each realty transactions require an ideal plan to be implemented. Good realty consultants should know the required plan for the procedure. Some may advertise, some may auction. The pricing of the property is also very important which only an experienced person can fix which is acceptable in the market for both buyer and the seller.
A good <a href="https://www.vancouverhousefinders.com/sellers/marketing-your-home/">Home marketing</a> plan can be what makes the difference between a speedy sale and a home that languishes on the market. One should have strong understanding of both online and social media marketing. More than 90% of all buyers find their home online.
We all know that selling a house is not riding unicorns, so be ready to accept that your property might also have some flaws. A realtor that is a good fit should be able to name several potential drawbacks, from repairs to location and beyond. That said, you will be spending a good deal of time with your real estate pro, so seek out someone with a realistic but tactful approach. You should also keep in mind that their demands should be reasonable i.e. the improvements you make in your property shouldn’t lead you to a loss.
To sum up, it’s very common for real estate agents to prepare an informal presentation to give you. Consider keeping a list of the questions that you have. There are some truly great agents out there so don’t prefer settling any agent that walks to your door or you will most likely end up being
disappointed. Keep in mind that hiring an exceptional real estate agent will go a long way in being happy and getting the terms and conditions you are looking for in your sale. In the end, you get what you put into it. There is a certain level of investment needed to make anything successful. Once when you are done with the interviews and research, trust your instincts. You will be sharing sensitive financial information and time with this person, so you surely want yourself to like them and for them to be trustworthy enough towards you. It’s your property and play it well with the support of an <a href="https://www.vancouverhousefinders.com/agents/hanifaraj/">ideal real estate agent</a> with all the above-mentioned characteristics to taste success.
https://www.youtube.com/embed/0a5FRF-wBnw
Want to have a chat about the property or about your buying or selling needs?
<a href="https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=15579442">Book</a> an appointment today with Mr. Hani Faraj and be relieved of any stress.2018-07-09T19:50:00-07:002022-04-14T03:37:01-07:00Hani Farajtag:vancouverhousefinders.com,2012-09-20:43599 Possible Reasons Why Your House Isn't Selling<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1084/image/frustration-1241534_960_720.jpg" />
So, you have put up a home for sale. It’s been a couple of months but still, your house is not selling or you haven’t gotten any positive leads.
Heck, you haven’t even gotten calls barring a few creepy ones.
You are worried and confused as to why isn't my house selling. Well, fear not. It is not because the entire universe is against you, it may just be one of the following factors.
1. High Asking Price
It is difficult to correctly price your house. It is your house that you built and made it a home. But, just because you think it’s worth a certain amount it doesn’t mean everyone thinks the same.
So, <a href="https://www.vancouverhousefinders.com/sellers/homeworth/">what is the worth of your house</a>?
It is the price that someone is willing to pay. Every house can be sold in seconds if it is priced right. It is difficult to lower the asking price, but it is much better than waiting for months and not being able to have the cash in hand.
2. Aesthetic Appeal
Just as an experiment, walk out of your home right this instant.
Are you there? Great.
Now, with a third-person mindset, observe your home. The lawn, the hedges, paint and so on. Does it need some re-touching? Does it look inviting? Do you feel like going in?
Look around the neighbourhood, take a closer look at the houses you love and have sold recently. What have they done differently? Why does it look more appealing?
You need to be able to work on the aesthetic appeal of your home such that it not only looks good in person but also in photos. Potential customers will judge your home on the basis of first impressions which are extremely vital.
Check Also :
<a href="https://www.vancouverhousefinders.com/blog/how-to-determine-the-value-of-your-home/">Do I Need For Sale Sign Board For My Property ?</a>
<a href="https://www.vancouverhousefinders.com/blog/do-i-need-a-for-sale-sign-for-my-property/">Determine Home Value</a>
3. Clutter?
When potential customers come knocking, it is important to have a home that is not only beautiful from the outside but also from the inside. Try to get rid of as much as you can. Keep it simple and aesthetically simple. This allows for the buyer to be able to visualise how they would design their future home.
Just open up the place and let the light flow in. You don’t want your clutter to be the reason for not having closed the sale!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1084/image/clutter-360058_960_720-768x576.jpg" width="768" height="576" />
4. A messy house?
Take a hard look at yourself and be honest,
Is your home clean? Really?
Are the shelves absolutely shiny? Are the corners and the bathrooms clean?
Is there laundry visible anywhere?
It can be very hard to keep up with your household chores and maybe too much when it’s your own home. But, when you want to sell your home, you need to do go that extra mile.
Your house may be awesome but if it’s in any way a mess then a potential buyer won’t see the awesomeness, they will see the dirty toilet and be skeeved.
If you have to hire a cleaning service, then go for it. Those extra bucks spent will come back to you and be rewarding in every sense of the term.
5. You linger!
More often than not, sellers will hang around while a potential buyer is scoping the property. The seller will try to tell them about everything that is brilliant about the home and answer any kind of questions.
Though you may think it’s a nice gesture, it’s not.
In fact, it works against you. This is precisely why you have a real estate agent.
By following the buyer everywhere, you are making the buyer nervous and maybe really annoyed. The buyer cannot voice what he/she feels to the agent and has to be cordial. You may also end up looking too eager and that may put off the buyer. Or you might accidentally let out a piece of information that sours the buyer on the house!
Provide the space for people to voice their opinions, it will work out in your favour.
6. Your Real Estate Agent is not so great
It is often one of the main reasons why your house not selling.
You go through a lot of research to <a href="https://www.vancouverhousefinders.com/agents/hanifaraj/">hire the perfect real estate</a> who would bust their backs trying to get your home sold. They are getting a commission, right?
Well, not so much.
Not every agent will work equally hard and will favour one client over the other. The agents may even make you sign different forms which is favourable to only them.
To be wary of this, ensure to always stay in touch. Keep asking for updates and never take no for an answer. Be in touch with their bosses if you aren’t satisfied. But, more than anything, ensure that the agent knows what he/she is talking about. Do the due diligence for the best experience. Let the agent work for you.
(Pssst. The perfect agent should be telling you everything in this article.)
7. Lies!
It is a taken that the description and details of most homes will be a little over exaggerated and take some liberties. But, some listings do lie quite a bit. Don’t call your home to be in pristine condition when it’s far from it.
If there is some serious renovation to be done, then say it out.
Here’s the deal, all houses have their warts, and we all want our house to sell. But, when you lie in your description it ticks off the potential buyer.
You lose all the trust all at once. When a buyer feels cheated, be rest assured that word will get around. And you will never be able to sell to a quality buyer.
Some outright lies include the number of bedrooms, storage facilities, society obligations etc.
8. The renovations are still going on
If your home is undergoing some serious repair work or even if it minor, it is not a good time to put your home on the market. It does not give potential buyers the best impression. The home seems incomplete and the gory construction equipment is a major put off. Also, if you are the one doing the work then that’s really bad. A buyer wants to know any work is professionally done and up to code.
Get them done beforehand and always do it so with proper documentation.
9. You have eccentric tastes
Each individual is unique, and each one has his/her own tastes. There is nothing wrong with that. But, that is until you have to sell your home.
If you are somebody who paints your home black and love it, trust me, it will be difficult to sell the home to a bigger audience. The buyers will judge and think of it as a major renovation gig and often take a pass.
Hence, it is important to understand what the potential buyer will click to see and design accordingly.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1084/image/signature-962354_960_720-768x576.jpg" width="768" height="576" />
Phew.
That’s quite a list. Isn’t it?
Well, when you want to sell your home and that too, quick, you need to take some steps which are headed in that direction. The home for any potential buyer should be one in which he/she can imagine a future life and memories yet to be made.
So, try to create that for them. Put yourself in a buyer’s shoes and imagine what you would want to see when you go house hunting and do exactly that. Selling your home is not easy and you need to put in that hard work if you want to see the dough.
Want to have a chat about the property or about your buying or selling needs?
<a href="https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=15579442">Book</a> an appointment today with Mr. Hani Faraj and be relieved of any stress.
(You will not be reading this article again, we promise you. Mr. Hani Faraj is in the top 1% of the best real estate agents in the country. He will break his back for you.)2018-06-25T21:25:00-07:002022-04-14T03:04:24-07:00Hani Farajtag:vancouverhousefinders.com,2012-09-20:4354What should I be looking for while interviewing an agent?Q. What should I be looking for while interviewing an agent?
A.Is it time to sell the beautiful place you call home? Are you intimidated by what the process entails or whether you will even be able to logically justify the sale? The right agent with the correct amount of patience, integrity, knowledge of the area trends and appropriate negotiation skills; can be very instrumental in cutting yourself some slack. Find the right agent and forget worrying about all the little details that are essential to make every decision an informed one.
It is not uncommon to find yourself tackling the advertising hype created by various agents to promote themselves. Cutting through the yard signs, public sponsored benches, online ads and much more can be very tough. So how do you select the perfect agent for the job?
Before we begin let’s be sure to take care of two most common things that are looked into by sellers:
Can the agent get me the highest listed price?
Which deal will comprise of the lowest commission?
These questions may seem completely reasonable but have very little to do with the competence of a real estate agent. Here is why.
It’s a fallacy that the agent can tell how much your house will sell for. He or she can only tell you about comparable, pending and active sales. You’re the one who really decides the selling price. An agent can suggest a generally attractive price at most. It is up to the buyers after that to drive the price in either direction. Some agents might even distort the truth a little. Ask for basic stats that lead to your agent’s suggestion. Agents that talk in terms of a price range rather than an arousing number are generally more truthful. This range is also determined by various factors like location, “temperature of the real estate market” and improvements pending or take care of.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1084/image/Potential-Agent-Interview-441x450.jpg" width="441" height="450" />
Also, there is always a reason behind an agent’s willingness to discount the real estate fee. Sometimes it is apparently the only way an agent can compensate for not being able to stand apart from the competition in service quality, knowledge / insights about the ongoing trends and negotiation skills. If you have a choice between two agents with a certain disparity in their credentials, wherein, one takes 5% and the other a 6% commission. Ask yourself, whether you’re willing to risk a greater fall in the price of your house than the 1% difference that made you go with the cheaper agent? Besides, you might gain greater exposure to the largest number of buyers by choosing an agent with a large advertising budget and company dollars to match it, which is ideal. Reaching greater numbers of buyers equals better chances of a good offer.
Some, however, might negotiate a lower rate under special circumstances like:
Your involved in more than one real estate transactions. Giving both the accounts to the same agent might fetch a discount.
The agents accept you as pro-bono case.
You are willing to do all the legal and advertising work along with take on all the expenses that arise therefore.
You have made a credible and verifiable promise to bring more business for the agent through referrals.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1084/image/man_long_nose.jpg" width="400" height="271" />
With the basics are looked after and kept in mind, lets now focus on some queries that will make shortlisting a cake walk. Try to figure out which properties the agent Is good at selling. You want someone who specializes in what your selling. Ask your potential agent to provide you with a list of previous properties that he/she sold. Then compare how similar these properties were to what you want to sell in terms of price, location and features. It is important to know the time period for which these properties were on the market and; the difference between selling price and suggested price.
Now that we have gotten that out of the way, it is important to realize that whoever you chose to aid your sale is going to be around for a couple of weeks or maybe even more. Make sure that it is someone credible and someone who you like. Some ways are:
Check with appropriate regulatory bodies to make sure that the agent is licensed and/or has any disciplinary actions or complaints against him/her. This information can be found online.
Do your homework and try to gauge the agent’s knowledge of the area.
Ask about professional awards. Peer organized awards like those given by National Association of Realtors are also good endorsements. They ensure a certain standard.
Ensuring right credentials is essential. Like many fields, agents have specialties too and most go the extra mile to Specialize in certain areas.
Ex: CRS (Certified Residential Specialist): Completed additional training in handling residential real estate.
Find out how experienced the agent is. There is a risk factor involved with anyone who has been in business for less than 5 years as they might be learning on you. That might prove to be a flaw unless the agent’s current listings are outstanding and his/her talent is evident.
Once, you are sure that you found someone you feel comfortable with, it would be wise to sign a contract for the shortest possible period. Generally, 4 to 6 weeks should be sufficient to evaluate the agent’s performance. If priced properly and marketed appropriately, you should meet your most sincere buyer within this time frame.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1084/image/35.jpg" width="425" height="283" />
If you are looking for someone who is in the top 1% of the real estate agents in the country, Mr. Hani Faraj would be the professional for you. He is not only dedicated to his craft but also ensures that you have a comfortable experience. You wouldn’t be pushed or prodded but guided at your own pace.
Interested? <a href="https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=15579442">Book</a> an appointment with Mr. Hani Faraj today to be relieved of any stress. Be rest assured to have an amazing experience that you will be thankful for when you buy/sell your home.2018-06-05T19:47:00-07:002018-10-29T17:00:24-07:00Hani Farajtag:vancouverhousefinders.com,2012-09-20:4344When is the best time to sell my home? Does it matter?Selling a house in this day and age can be difficult. One needs to think not only about staging of an apartment, the pricing but also when is the right time to sell a home.
It has been found that certain times of the year can be better to list a home than others. It can be difficult to comprehend that idea but stay with it. For example, you should not put up a home on the market during Christmas time because it’s a really bad time. Not because it won’t sell during the holidays but because there will be a small pool of buyers only. Hence, it would be a less than optimum time to sell.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1084/image/sell_stat.jpg" />
As found out by the HomeLight National Agent Insights Survey, research states that “Springtime” is the best time of the year to list a home. This is when most residents are gearing up for wanting to make new investments. If not spring, the second best is the fall market which is right after the Labour Day weekend. Unlike popular belief, summer is not the best time to put up your house for sale. This is because Summer is the time for family vacations, get-togethers, hanging out with friends and other improvement projects.
What is the best time of the month to list a home?
If you want to be extremely analytical about and break it down, a week after your <a href="https://www.vancouverhousefinders.com/Best-mortgage-rates/">mortgage</a> payment has been made or the second week of the month would be perfect.
It’s possible to sell your home within 21 days. After you have made the mortgage payment for the following month as that would be the last payment you would ever make. If you are moving or buying a new home to close simultaneously, you would be able to close escrow at the end of the month. Because of the way interest calculations are handled, you will not have a mortgage payment on your new home for another month.
It will just be like receiving a free month even if you are paying interest.
What is the best day of a week to list a home?
The first day of the week though named as “Monday Blues” is not the most popular vote. The reason why it is not the best day is because people are less focused on Monday. That is because they are usually adjusting to the weekend having been over and trying to get back to work. Some believe that Tuesdays are a good day to break out a new concept. But, contrary to popular belief, Mondays and Tuesdays are not the best days to list your home.
But, the weekend will also not be a good time to list your home for sale because most people have plans for the weekend or usually want to relax. Hence, that leaves us with Wednesday, Thursday or Friday.
Usually Thursdays are day off for real-estate agents as well as some work throughout the weekends too. Wednesday is a good day only when it's the day before Thanksgiving; it's still hump day in many people's minds.
That leaves Friday. This is usually the best day as many are looking forward to the weekend but also have enough time to browse through listings and make a few calls.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1084/image/best_time.jpg" width="956" height="720" />
What is the right time to list a home?
Not just any time would work. The best time is at 12:01 in the morning on a Friday or Thursday at midnight. Usually, you can prep your listings 1-2 days before to ensure it’s ready and all the links are working. You can use an automatic listing so you do not need to be awake at midnight and keep watching the clock at all times.
What this helps is that if you launch at midnight, many of the potential sellers will receive notifications the first thing when they wake up. Since most sellers are usually looking at a Friday to buy a home, they will receive a notification immediately. It usually so happens that you will receive calls from buyers right, left and centre. Also, buyers are motivated to check out brand new listings.
Another important tip to keep in mind is that before you put up a listing or put up your <a href="https://www.vancouverhousefinders.com/selling/">house for sale</a>, ensure that you don’t have any missing data or loose ends tied up. Check out our article about <a href="https://www.vancouverhousefinders.com/what-do-i-need-do-i-put-my-house-market/index.html">What needs to be done before I put my home on the market?</a>
Though we have delved into what would be the perfect season, week and time to put up your house for sale. It is important to remember that you should only choose that option when YOU are ready for it. When you feel like it’s time to bid goodbye and move on to newer prospects. Because if you delay this process, it is only a bad name in the market as the number of potential sellers will decrease when they realize how long the house has been on the market. They will assume that there is something wrong with it which is something you certainly do not want.
But, whatever you may decide, it is necessary to look at selling your home as a business opportunity. You need to understand the demand, the ways to convince the potential buyers and use techniques to get the right price. These techniques also include deciding upon the right time to sell your home and matching it to any payment schedule or renovations that need to be completed.
If you need more assistance or want to reach out to a real estate agent who will be committed, dedicated and innovative then book your appointment with Mr. Hani Faraj <a href="https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=15579442">here.</a>
He is one of the best real estate agents in Vancouver and is recognised as the top 1% agents available in the market.
What are you waiting for?
This is the right time to reach out to a professional and be able to sell your dream home to a potential buyer today. If you have any queries or suggestions, please feel free to reach out to us anytime.2018-05-31T21:12:00-07:002018-10-18T02:17:08-07:00Hani Farajtag:vancouverhousefinders.com,2012-09-20:4341WHAT DO I NEED TO DO BEFORE I PUT MY HOUSE ON THE MARKET?WHAT DO I NEED TO DO BEFORE I PUT MY HOUSE ON THE MARKET?
Planning to sell the special place you call home?
Does it not seem like a lot?
Thinking about every little detail can be pretty overwhelming. Haunted by the thought that every little thing matters when it comes to wooing and winning potential buyers?
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1084/image/house-for-sale-2845213_960_720.jpg" width="720" height="720" />
Fear not!
Just set a couple of weekends aside to follow three simple steps and get ready to make the desired impact and cinch the deal.
The first step while obvious has a level of importance that cannot be overstated irrespective of how much you try and it’s all about cleaning and decluttering. However, tedious and time consuming this may seem, it can practically be made almost painless. Start with decluttering. Extra space will be your saviour and so it is time to purge your house of everything that just wastes space.
The goal is to turn your home into a clean slate before you get down to cleaning it. In addition to selling items, you might also want to consider giving them away for charity or getting in touch with recyclers. These are some affective ways of getting rid of huge metal junk without shelling out any money.
You want the buyers to focus on how amazing your place is and not how messy it looks. In addition to discarding items, remove the pile of shoes from the entry, old mail that has been rotting on the kitchen table and everything else that distracts the buyers from the beautiful features that you place naturally boasts about. It’s time to clean after giving your house room to breathe.
Deep cleaning is probably the most time consuming but is also the most important part. Maybe get the whole family involved and think of it as spring cleaning. Pay special attention to the kitchen, the inside as well as the outside of windows and the bathroom. This makes a striking improvement in the overall appearance.
Simply, closing the toilets can do wonders. Do not forget to organize closets, cabinets, and drawers. In this case, out of sight is not out of mind. Many potential buyers will open cabinets and closets, because they are thinking about storage space.
If your storage areas are clean and organized, it will send a signal to buyers that you take care of the house and it is easy to do so. Keeping the house décor simple also helps as people with different tastes might get turned off by what you call art. Now your house is sparkling, make sure that it smells nice too.
Don’t cook anything that will ruin the deal. While most things like bacon taste amazing, they have this innate ability to fill the place with a certain stench. Baking cookies or using a natural air freshener are some way to express the essence of your house through the way it smells.
The second step is to tackle the honey-do list! All the little things that you always wanted to fix but never got around to, is what noticed most in an otherwise clean house. This detracts the buyers from appreciating the real value of your house.
<a href="https://www.cleanandscentsible.com/making-to-do-lists-fun/">Image by Clean and Scentsible</a>
So, set aside a weekend to tighten those loose doorknobs, fix that leaky faucet and paint over the scuffs from when you first moved in your sofa. Any leaking faucets and running toilets; replace caulking around tubs, showers, and sinks; freshen up or repair grout as needed; repair and repaint them in a neutral, generally pleasing colour that complements your home; fix cracked or broken windows; replace or repair damaged window screens; replace burned-out light bulbs. All of them are fixes that you can do yourself.
Taking care of these little problems before you show your house for the first time helps the buyers visualize comfort and serenity as they imagine themselves living there.
First impressions are a big deal. You want potential buyers to be charmed by the outside of your house so they look forward to coming inside. Hence the third and the final step is to go for “the curb appeal”. Extend your pumped-up spring cleaning to the outside of your house, too. Trim bushes, shrubs, and trees. Make sure vegetation isn’t touching your roof or siding. Also ensure that your roof gutters are well cleaned out. A neat look is always pleasing.
Other than that, repair broken downspouts and gutters. Also, clean and repair concrete areas such as driveways and walkways. Be sure to eliminate any oil or grease stains and clean out any weeds coming up through the cracks. Another idea could be to invest some time and money in landscaping. A beautiful garden with lush green grass and flowers will be inviting to potential buyers. It will showcase the possibility of children playing, couples enjoying a quiet picnic and families celebrating occasions.
Dress things up a little bit. If it’s seasonally appropriate, put out some pots of annuals, which will maintain their colour for the season. Freshen up your doorstep with a new welcome mat. Make sure the house numbers are easy to see, and in a style that complements your home. If it’s the season of holidays, decorate your home with some mistletoe or a Christmas tree or even just some Halloween decorations. When potential buyers come into your home, they will be able to imagine celebrating the same festivals with their loved ones. It’s a neat little trick which won’t cost you a dime!
In the end, apply new mulch, river rock, and/or pea gravel if it is appropriate for your yard. This can do wonders for your landscaping and provide immediate curb appeal.
The final tip is a critical one. If you too are subjected to the restraints of a tight budget, at least try and spruce-up the front entrance. That first impression goes a long way.
With just a moderate amount of effort, you can render the most appropriate meaning to the phrase, “mi casa es su casa” by making your house beautiful and welcoming, both inside and out.
About the author:
Hani Faraj and his team are known to take care of their clients and take care of them like family. They provide clients with junk removal, staging, they can help with booking a storage room, and even book movers. There do 38 things to ensure the home is marketed and sold for the highest price and never waiver on customer service or the highest standards.
They go the extra mile to find ways to make sure every transaction is beneficial to all parties involved. Hani Faraj will make sure that the property you sell and the property you buy suits your needs and requirements.
Hani Faraj and his team also takes care of your property’s advertising and marketing needs. Their services include taking professional photographs and creating virtual tours and posting on different websites and social media to generate interests and leads. They also offer free staging of your home which includes decluttering and rearranging to attract more buyers.
To know more about Hani Faraj and his team, check the website: <a href="http://www.hanifaraj.com/">http://www.HaniFaraj.com/</a>
If you are, or anyone you know would be interested to sell or buy any real estate property, you can conveniently schedule an appointment by clicking the button below.
Posted in <a href="https://www.vancouverhousefinders.com/category/selling/index.html">Selling</a>, <a href="https://www.vancouverhousefinders.com/category/selling-your-Vancouver-home/index.html">Selling Your Vancouver Home</a>
2018-05-14T21:42:00-07:002018-10-18T01:53:54-07:00Hani Faraj