Monday, March 31, 2014

Seven Seller Slip-Ups That Send Buyers Packing


BY  · DEADLINENEWS.COM © MARCH 20, 2013 


Sure it’s a sellers’ market, but that doesn’t mean it’s a fool proof market.
Sellers who approach the market like a cocky kid who thinks he or she knows it all will soon learn the real estate world isn’t his or her oyster.
If you want to sell your home quickly for the maximum sales price, consider these pearls of wisdom to avoid common seller mistakes.
Mistake No. 1: Pricing your property too high – Every seller wants to get the most money for his or her product. Listing with an excessively high price is a mistake.
A high listing price will simply alienate some buyers before they even see your property. Other buyers could expect more than your home really has to offer.
Over-priced properties tend to take an unusually long time and sell for a lower price than a similar home that’s priced right.
Mistake No. 2: Mistaking refinance appraisals for market value – In a refinance, lenders often estimate the value of your property at a higher level than the home is worth to encourage refinancing.
It’s a good idea to ask your real estate agent for the latest comparable market analysis, based on similar, recently sold properties in the same community.
Mistake No. 3: Forgetting to “showcase” your home – No matter how many times sellers hear this advice, no matter how simple it is to achieve, there’s widespread neglect when it comes to getting a property ready for sale.
A poorly maintained home with neglected decor and an unorganized appearance will turn away buyers and slash thousands of dollars off the selling price.
Mistake No. 4: Trying to “hard sell” while showing – Buying a house is an emotional and difficult decision.
Give prospective buyers time and space to examine your property. A home tour or open house event is not the time for pressuring prospective buyers.
Point out subtle issues, but be friendly, be hospitable, be available and be receptive to questions, but only if the potential buyer asks.
Mistake No. 5: Trying to sell to lookers – A prospective buyer who shows interest because of a “for sale” sign likely isn’t really interested in your property.
These buyers are more likely six to nine months from really taking the plunge. They are more interested in learning what’s available, rather than looking for a home to buy.
Your real estate agent can distinguish between the looky-loos and real buyersby determining a prospective buyer’s savings, credit rating, and purchasing power.
If your real estate agent can’t make this distinction, and you have to investigate on your own, consider finding a new real estate agent.
Mistake No. 6: Not knowing your rights and responsibilities – It’s crucial you are aware of all the details in your real estate contract.
Real estate contracts are legally binding documents and can be complex and confusing, but failing to sweat the details could cost you thousands of dollars in repairs and inspections.
Mistake No. 7: Signing a contract with no escape – You have a right to a contract that allows you to fire your real estate agent – and hire another – if the original agent fails to do the job as promised.
Beware of real estate companies that simply replace an agent with another one, without consulting you. Be in control of your sale before you sign a real estate contract. 
Click here for link to original article on Deadline News.

Top Producing Agent at Keller Williams Bay Estates, Los Gatos

Monday, March 17, 2014

I've Moved to Keller Williams Bay Area Estates


If you have a need for a real estate professional, please contact me. I would also appreciate your vote of confidence by passing my name to anyone you may know who would benefit from my services.


                                   408.687.2026 |  Julie@JulieWyss.comwww.JulieWyss.com

Monday, March 3, 2014

Quick Tips for a Fast Sale


sold

BY JULIE WYSS · Originally published at DEADLINENEWS.COM © JANUARY 8, 2013 

When it’s time to sell your home, it’s the little things that count.

Here’s a hot list of cool moves that make your home more saleble, at a higher price.

Capitalize on first impressions
• Sweep the street in front of your house and clear all steps and walkways of debris, including pet droppings.
• Make sure the siding on your house is clean. Wash all the windows until they sparkle.
• Consider a fresh coat of paint. At least paint the trim, front door and shutters.
• Check all lighting to make sure they work. Install new bulbs, if needed.

Pump up curb appeal
• Water and mow the lawn. Rake the leaves.
• Trim trees. Plant colorful flowers.
• Stow bicycles, toys, gardening equipment and other items typically left outside or in the yard.
• Garage the car or park on the street to leave ample parking for prospective buyers.
• Organize. Remove all clutter, including items such as small appliances, gadgets, toys and memorabilia.
• Hide or temporarily disconnect tangles of obtrusive extension cords, computer network wiring, cables and like wiring or cabling.
• Organize cabinets to demonstrate ample storage space.
• Recycle or store away newspapers, magazines and other publications.
• Board pets, send them to the neighbors or keep them out of sight. Remove pet odors, put away the litter box, store pet toys.
• Bake cookies, burn scented candles or fire up the fireplace to make the house smell pleasant and feel cozy.
• Stash valuables, including medications, in a safe, secure place.

Offer informative disclosures, via fact sheets, brochures
• Have any inspection on hand.
• Provide a list of all home improvements, new appliances, fixtures, etc.
• Prepare take away brochures and flyers about the property, the neighborhood, area schools and local services, attractions and destinations.

Be a good neighbor
• Make sure your agent has communicated with the neighbors to inform them of any open house dates.
• Invite the neighbors for a private showing one hour prior to the public open house.

Planning to put your home on the market soon? Contact Team Wyss and let us help you set the proper selling stage to get the best offer in the shortest time.


Now Top Producing Agent at Keller Williams Bay Estates Los Gatos

    Julie Wyss  |  408.687.2026  |  julie@juliewyss.com