I want to sell my house 'FOR SALE BY OWNER'.  Is this a good idea?

• Due to internet usage, Sellers are more business savvy now than ever before.  More and more Sellers are trying to sell their home without a Realtor; however, statistics still show that in the end, most end up using the services of a Realtor.  Selling a home is a full-time job, and we're trained on various marketing methods and techniques.  In addition, REALTORS® only show your home to prospective pre-qualified or pre-approved Buyers, thus eliminating the LOOKY-LOU'S, potential criminals, etc.  As a Seller, always use proper safety measures to ensure that the prospect is who they say they are, and really is interested in the house, not just viewing what's inside.   

What is the 1st step in the home-buying process?

• The 1st step is to contact a Lender to get pre-qualified.  The Lender will ask you a series of questions to determine the following:

 1 - If you are financially able to buy now.  

 2 - If not, the Lender can assist you with steps to prepare you to purchase in the future.

 3 - How much house you can afford?

 4 - What are your Beacon/Credit Scores.

Do I really need an Agent to buy or sell real estate?

• If you are Buying a home:
  
  A GREAT Agent will assist you with the entire process and make it a smooth, enjoyable experience.  You need someone who is knowledgeable about local real estate laws, has access to ALL available properties in your areas of interest, and someone who will represent you and have your best interest throughout the transaction.  Food for thought:  Would you show up in court and represent yourself before a judge?  Or, would you hire an Attorney who is knowledgeable of the legal system to represent you?  Think about it.
   

• If you are Selling a home:

This really goes back to the 'FOR SALE BY OWNER' question.  Please refer to the 1st question.

How long will it take to sell my home?

• The length of time it takes to sell a house depends on several factors.  Location is one of the key factors along with the condition of the house, the functionality of the house, and the price of the house.  Market conditions play a huge factor in how quickly a house sells. 

What is the difference between REALTORS® and Real Estate Agents?

• REALTORS®  - A real estate professional who is a member of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®.  This is a registered trade name that may only be used by members of this organization which has over 700,000 members who represent all branches of the real estate industry. REALTORS® subscribe to a strict Code of Ethics which governs their conduct .  Not every real estate agent is a Realtor.
• A Real Estate Agent is someone who is licensed to negotiate and arrange real estate sales.  Usually, a real estate agent has received minimal training in the field of real estate.

When is the best time for a Seller to put their house on the market?

• Homes sell throughout the year, but the best time for a Seller to put their house on the market in during the months of April thru September.  Buyers are out in full force during the Spring & Summer months and usually try to get situated prior to the new school term.  

I've been renting for many years, what is the real benefit of buying a home?

• If you've been renting for years, SHAME ON YOU!  Take a piece of paper and calculate how much money you've actually thrown away all those years.  By owning a home, it is a form of CREATING WEALTH.  You get tax benefits along with the opportunity to build equity.  History has proved that millions of people have become millionaires because of the vast amount of money to be made through investing.  It all starts with ONE house.

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