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Questions Answered About The Home Selling Process

April 6, 2023 by chorton Leave a Comment

You’re likely excited to start the process if you have a property to sell. It’s difficult to not feel overwhelmed when you sell your home. There are so many factors to consider. We’ve done extensive research on everything you need to sell your home, and we have the answers you’re looking for:

What is the best way to determine my home’s worth?

A Comparative Market Analysis will be done to determine the value of your home and establish a listing price. A Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) uses comparable sales to yours that are similar in age, geography, size, and other features. A CMA is not an appraisal. Only a licensed appraiser can do this.

Is it a good idea for a company to start high?

Although sellers love the idea of starting high to see if they receive higher offers, this strategy is not always practical. If buyers use a price filter that is set to the expected area prices, they may not be able to see your listing. You also run the risk that the appraisal comes in lower than the contract price. This will force you to renegotiate or cancel your contract. If your listing price is higher than the neighborhood value of your home, it will be more likely that your home stays on the market longer while buyers wait for your offer to lower your price. You should set a realistic price for your home that will attract buyers quickly. My goal is to get you the best price possible in the shortest time.

What percentage of the listing price should I expect to receive?

The selling price divided by the listing price is what determines the list-to-sell ratio. This ratio is heavily influenced by the market. Sellers may receive close to 100% in a sellers market (low inventory), or even more if the home sells for more than list price. A buyers’ market has a greater inventory, which means that buyers have greater negotiating power. The list-to-sell ratio might be closer to 90%. My goal is to get as close as possible to a 100% market-to-sale ratio.

What is the quickest time I can get my house on the MLS?

I will start entering your information into the MLS system once we have agreed to work together. I will schedule a professional photographer to take photos. Once all information and photos have been uploaded, your listing will be live on MLS.

What should I do in order to be ready to list?

It’s a smart idea for you to start organizing your storage space, closets, drawers, and decor, as well as putting away any of your belongings. It may be a good idea to have your exterior pressure washed and your landscaping cleaned up. We are happy to discuss specific items that can help improve the appearance of your home.

What will it take to show the results?

We will reach an agreement with you regarding the terms of showings. We want the home to be accessible to all buyers with minimal disruption to your life. If we do not agree to a showing schedule, I will inform you before any showings. Most often, we use electronic lockboxes that are only accessible to active members of the local Realtors association. If necessary, we can schedule the lockbox. Each time the lockbox has been accessed, I get a notification.

How do you market my property

It is vital to market your listing. Most buyers search the internet for their property via MLS (via their agent), Realtor, Zillow or other search engines. Within a few days of being active, listings in our MLS system will appear on these websites. Additionally, I share listings with agents in my network, on this website and on social media. We can also discuss other opportunities, such as hosting open houses or marketing in your area.

What is the time it takes to find a buyer for your property?

There are many factors that influence how long it takes to find a buyer. The market conditions, price range (pricier homes are more difficult to sell), location (whether the property is in a desirable area or unique location) and condition of the house (is it ready for move-in or in dire need of renovations). Most houses go under contract in 30 days if they are priced correctly and there is no significant damage or other extenuating circumstances. In a seller’s marketplace, homes sell quicker while buyers take longer to search for houses if there is more inventory.

Are you able to qualify the buyer?

Once an offer has been received, I will work closely with the buyer’s agent in order to vet the buyer. All offers must be accompanied either by a pre-approval letter from a mortgage lender, or if you are paying cash, proof of the funds necessary to pay for the purchase price. After accepting an offer, the buyer should pay the agreed-upon escrow deposit and schedule inspections according to the contract. If financing is required, their lender will begin the loan approval process. To ensure that the process is completed correctly, I will keep in touch with the buyer’s agent.

What are the associated costs?

The seller typically pays the fees for the agent. These are split between the buyer’s and seller’s agents. The seller pays their portion of HOA dues and property taxes. The buyer will pay their share to the seller if the entire annual amount has been paid. To make the transaction smoother, the seller may pay a portion to the buyer’s closing expenses.

Is your commission negotiable?

The commission cannot be negotiable. Remember that the commission will be split equally between both sides. Both agents must adhere to the brokerage structure. Buyer agents may be less inclined to advocate for your property if we reduce the commission upfront. To earn the commission, I will do everything possible to represent you truthfully and with integrity. This is my job, and I will do whatever it takes to earn my salary and close transactions for clients.

Do you want to represent the buyer as well?

If I do find the buyer for your house, you can be sure that I have the necessary training and experience to handle both sides of the transaction fair. As a professional, you can trust me to keep the confidential information and be loyal when dealing with each party. Communication is easier when I represent both sides. Although it is difficult to work on both sides of a transaction, it wouldn’t be a problem.

Can I cancel my order if I find my buyer?

Listing agreement is a contract between me and you, and/or my brokerage. You are encouraged to read it. It also contains the cancellation terms. After we have signed the listing agreement should any potential buyer who approaches me directly be directed to me.

How often will we communicate with each other?

A successful sale is made easier by communication. You will be kept informed of all developments at every stage. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact me. We will go over the listing information and discuss our preferred communication methods and schedules so that we are aware of each other’s availability.

Are you thinking of selling? Our agents at Preferred Properties of Texas are here to help!

Buying Your First Home? Know These 3 Things

April 4, 2023 by chorton Leave a Comment

It is a joy to work with first-time buyers. I love helping first-time home buyers find their first home and teaching them the process of buying a home. These are the three things you need to know before you begin looking.

1. Only work with one agent. It is best to work with one agent for your real estate search. Your agent will work with you to find the perfect property and negotiate all terms for your transaction. It is important that the agent gets to know you personally and your family so they can negotiate on your behalf. Remember that an agent who shows you a house is ethically the one who should handle the transaction. You are also dealing with the seller’s agents if you call an agent through a yard sign. Although most professionals can handle both sides of a transaction professionally it is more beneficial to work with someone you know well and who will look out for your best interests as the buyer. Your agent is not paid; the seller pays him or her upon closing. You are still hiring an agent to work for your business. Therefore, it is important to interview as many agents as possible and to choose the one you like best.

2. Pre-approval is required for financing. A lender must be pre-approved unless you plan to pay cash for your home. It helps you to set a realistic price range for house hunting. Frustration can result from looking at houses you cannot afford to buy. The mortgage lender will tell you how much you can borrow and also what your monthly payment will be. They will also give you information about closing costs and what you should do to protect your eligibility during the loan process. A current pre-approval is important to ensure you don’t lose your chance to buy another house. You will need to make an offer on the house you have found. The pre-approval letter must be included with your offer. I am happy to give you the names of local mortgage lenders who have been great to my clients.

3. There are some upfront costs. After you have found the perfect house and agreed on the terms and price, and signed the contract, it is time to pay your escrow deposit, also known as “good faith”, deposit. If you cancel the deal due to reasons not covered by the contract, this is money that you risk. It is usually between 1% to 5% of the sale price, but it can vary depending on the terms you and the seller have agreed to in the contract. During negotiations, your agent can help you with this. The escrow deposit is a part of the final sales price.

4. A certified home inspector should inspect the property. The cost of this inspection varies depending on how large, old, and what features the property has, but it is typically around a few hundred dollars. This amount will be due at the time service is rendered. Based on the results from the first inspection, you may choose to pay for additional inspections. If the inspector finds a problem with your HVAC system, you might need to pay a fee to have an HVAC contractor inspect it. To be able to move forward confidently with your purchase, you want as much information as possible during the inspection period.

5. A survey and appraisal of the property will be required. These costs are added to closing costs and should not be paid upfront. In the unlikely event of closing, however, you might be asked for a credit card number.

All of these steps will be covered during your home-buying journey. Are you ready to get started? Give Preferred Properties of Texas a call!

12 Tips To Make Your Move Easier!

March 30, 2023 by chorton Leave a Comment

Although it’s exciting to move into a new house, many people don’t look forward to the actual day of moving. Moving is stressful, no matter if you’re moving across the country or within your locality. These helpful tips from professional movers will make your big day easier.

1. It is important to plan your move in advance. It is common for moving companies to be booked weeks in advance. Don’t delay your move. If you have large or heavy items that you need to move, let the movers know in advance. It is not a good idea for movers to arrive with a truck too small or without enough people to safely move your belongings.

2. You might consider hiring a moving company to pack your belongings. It may be a good investment if you have the budget to hire packers. The majority of packers are efficient and will take the time to secure fragile items. You can expect your Packers to pack your items the day before you move so that you don’t have any extra packing materials until the day you move.

3. Book services. Do not forget to transfer or start services at your new residence. These services could include:

Power

Water

Trash service

Internet/TV/Phone

Gas

Lawn service

Pool service

Monitoring of security system

4. Professional cleaning should be done on your new house. You can arrange for professional cleaning if your seller doesn’t make arrangements to clean the house before you move in.

5. Make sure you have a moving supply bag. You should have items that you will need as you unpack and get settled in your new home.

Toilet paper

Use paper towels

Sponge

All-purpose cleaner and glass cleaner

Shelf liner paper

Scissors

Moving furniture pads

Tape measure

Cordless screwdriver

Hammer

Picture hanging kit

Snacks, water bottles, and pet food

Disposable utensils, plates, cups and cups made of paper

Dish Soap & Hand Soap

6. Make Your Bed. Make your bed. Your sheets, blankets and pillows should be packed in clearly marked boxes so that you can easily find them. You’ll be glad that your beds are set up so you can collapse when you get home from moving day.

7. The same goes for bath soap and towels. You can pack your bath towels and soap along with your sheets so that you can get in the shower without needing to search for towels.

8. Plan for your pets. Moving day can be stressful for your pet. Plan for your pet to spend the day with friends or family, a pet sitter or boarding facility until they are ready to be moved into their new home.

9. Say yes to helpers It can be difficult to accept additional help from friends or family if you don’t know what they can do. These are some tasks that you can delegate.

Install shelf liner in your bathroom and kitchen cabinets and drawers

You can arrange your kitchen items later!

You can babysit your children or keep them occupied.

Place towels in the bathrooms and make your bed

Cleanse counters and cabinets

Packing boxes can be broken down

Hang clothes in closets

Organize your tools and equipment in the garage

Order lunch or dinner

10. A Sitter is available for hire. Children with small children will love their new house, yard, and rooms. While they may want to be there, they won’t be interested in moving boxes. You can focus on your work by making arrangements for someone to be there for them. You don’t have to worry about them being lost. A friend, family member or hired sitter can take them around their new environment, help build a fort or organize their toys.

11. You can hire someone to hang your artwork. You might not like to hang your art yourself so you can have a handyman come in and help you. This will save you time and help you get settled. A decorator is a better option than a handyman if you need assistance deciding where to hang portraits or art. A decorator can help you choose the best place to hang your items or guide a handyman.

12. You can check out the old house. You should have filed a change in address form with the postal office before closing. Also, remember to remove all keys and garage doors or gate openers. Make sure that the movers do not take any loose items such as ceiling fan remote controls or other small items that are still with the house. You should also clean out any hidden spaces such as crawl spaces, backyard sheds, crawl areas, and other places where items might be stored. It is always a good idea to have your home cleaned by professionals. If you are able, make a list of local vendors who can help with household services.

Texans Who Have Left The Big City Behind

March 28, 2023 by chorton Leave a Comment

John Nova Lomax , a writer for our August 2018 issue, explored the migration of younger Texans from the big cities to the small towns in our state. For a variety of reasons, including space and a lower cost of living, as well as to be closer to their families, many are making the move. Below are the stories of a few such Texans I spoke to.

Celine Ord, 36, Radiation Oncologist, Fredericksburg

“We wanted to move back to Texas to be closer to our family and friends. If you’re a Texan, you always come back. Although we had planned to return to Austin, the perfect job opportunity presented itself in Fredericksburg. How could we refuse an opportunity to live in such beautiful town? We were thrilled to be able to bring our baby girl back to Texas after having her.

People are friendly, kind, and welcoming. It is a charming little town with many big-city amenities such as great restaurants, wineries, shops, and other amenities. You can’t beat the absence of traffic. You get to know people here because it is much more simple and less stressful. You feel part of the community and have a strong desire to help it. It brings out the best.

Brent Humphreys 42, Photographer, Taylor

Growing up, my dream was to own a property in the Hill Country. It was the idea of being able travel to your home and relax in nature. My family owned a small property in East Texas, near Mineola, when I was growing up in Dallas. I was inspired by the memories to find open space and land to explore with my kids.

After I moved to Austin I began looking for opportunities in the west. Because it was less populous and there were plans for the 130-mile toll road, I decided to look to the east. Taylor was home to a six-acre midcentury house on six acres. Eileen Gill, my friend and realtor, was the first to call me. We couldn’t believe the asking price. We were quick to mobilize the next morning.

After seeing the house and driving around town, I knew it was my deal. The small-town charm, rich heritage and history, as well as the strong sense of community are all things I love. It’s the calmness and connection you have with your neighbors and the larger community that I love. Taylor is an amazing place for James and me to raise our sons.

Alyson Fox 38, Artist/Designer Spicewood

“About eight years ago, our family bought land in Spicewood and built a home. We had planned to build an addition to our Austin house, but we started to think about other options. We had always wanted to build a house, but we decided to get it done sooner than expected. We were both eager to have more space so we started looking for land ourselves. It all clicked when we found the plot we wanted to purchase. Both of us are happy at home and enjoy socializing, but we also value peace and quiet, so moving outside of Austin seemed right. Both of us felt that we would both gain more than we would lose. I enjoy going on long, quiet walks outside our front door. It’s a great way to see more stars at night and it gives me the ability to be resourceful even when I don’t feel like going to town.

Original Blog: https://www.texasmonthly.com/the-culture/texans-whove-made-small-town-leap/

Hot Outdoor Trends For Spring/Summer

March 24, 2023 by chorton Leave a Comment

It is never too late to plan and shop for outdoor living spaces of your dreams.

These trends may be worth considering before they sell out.

Even before fall’s cooler nights, backyard fire pits had sold out by the end of last year. They were bought by people who wanted to extend their outdoor time. A fire pit can be purchased now to enjoy your backyard in the spring and into the autumn.

Outdoor kitchens will be very popular this year as people want to do all they can outside. A DIY kitchen is possible for as little as $2,000.

The outdoor kitchen can be outfitted with everything from barbecues to natural gas to charcoal, in addition to cabinets. You can choose from traditional black or vibrant colours, as well as stainless steel in various sizes and shapes that will suit your backyard. You might also consider the “connected barbecue”, which allows you to control the temperature directly from your smartphone.

Last summer, above-ground pools were sold out. Get one for your kids today. You can also find smaller inground pools that are a bit larger than a whirlpool bathtub for adults. These are great for cooling off and sitting down.

You will need a shed to store your pool-related items. Aluminum sheds are great for tools. But if you need a shed that can also double as an office or cabana in the summer, consider wood sheds that have double doors.

Be sure to consider the functionality of furniture as well as its design. Look for furniture with hidden storage or sectionals that incorporate tables into their designs for small spaces. Wide armrests make it easy to place a glass of wine, or an iPad on a comfortable seat. A coffee table can be raised to a comfortable height, so you don’t need additional chairs or a table.

Privacy screens and privacy kits make products that are both functional and beautiful. Privacy is also achieved by garden walls. This vertical trend includes trellises, metal grids and plants grown on them. Vertical garden walls are decorative and save space.

Decorative and edible plants were very popular during the pandemic. To meet the demand, many stores have ordered plenty of seed packets and plants.

There are many options for fountains and waterfalls. You can choose from large, standalone versions or smaller designs that fit on tabletops. The soothing sound of water can drown out any unwanted noises and create a Zen-like atmosphere in the room.

Outdoor lighting is available to help you stay outdoors after dark and create a mood. Outdoor lighting is now possible with the availability of LED lights in a variety of colours, which are popular among teenagers. You can also find adult-friendly versions, which can be used in planters or under the bar counter. You can also find lights on strings and garden lights that will laminate the edges of the path, as well as an umbrella with integrated lighting.

A front porch adds additional outdoor space. You can dress it up by adding curtains to the sides. This will allow you privacy, and also make it suitable for single seating or sectionals.

You can personalize your space by adding style, colour, and accessories. Enjoy it as you see fit.

Original Blog: https://realtytimes.com/consumeradvice/homeownersadvice/item/1041454-hot-outdoor-living-products-for-this-spring

Homeowners Can Benefit Financially and Emotionally by Remodeling Outdoor Features

March 22, 2023 by chorton Leave a Comment

Most Realtors (92%) recommend that sellers improve curb appeal before selling their home. The largest percentage of Realtors ^(r), suggested that sellers improve the curb appeal of their home before listing it for sale. These were also the most popular projects for which landscape professionals have seen increased demand in the past year. These and other findings are based on a report by the National Association of Realtors and National Association of Landscape Professionals.

Many homeowners have made their backyards their own, creating oases filled with plants, trees, and pools. If the homeowner wants to sell, these outdoor features can be embraced by him or her.

Landscape professionals were most in demand for outdoor projects such as an overall landscape update (61%), maintenance (58%), and a new patio (55%). They saw less demand for a wood deck (15%) or an in-ground swimming pool (25%) as well as tree care (29%).

It is not surprising that most Realtors ^(r/) and homeowners place high importance on a yard’s curb appeal. Green spaces and healthy outdoor living can improve the quality of life, enhance home value, make communities more attractive, and help people’s mental as well as physical health.