Selling Home
Preparing Your Sellers for Home Showings - Real Estate Agent Tips You are here: About > Home & Garden > Home Buying / Selling > Real Estate Careers > Presentation Skills > Listings > Preparing Your Sellers for Home Showings - Real Estate Agent Tips Home & Garden Home Buying / Selling Essentials 10 Things Home Buyers Shouldn't Do Best Tips for First Time Home Buyers "Must-Do" Tasks Before You Sell How to Buy a Home, Step by Step For Sale by Owner Advice Articles & Resources How To Buy a Home How To Sell a House Celebrity & Historic Credit Reports & Scores Design & Remodel Home Maintenance Inspections & Appraisals Investing & Foreclosures Modular & Manufactured Mold, Radon, Lead, etc. Mortgage Advice Moving & Relocation Real Estate Careers Real Estate For Sale Vacation Homes Buyer's Guide Before You Buy Top Picks Home Buying Books Foreclosure Books Mortgage Books Product Reviews Forums Help FREE Newsletter Sign Up Now for the Home Buying / Selling newsletter! See Online Courses Search Home Buying / Selling Stay up to date! Email to a friend Print this page Suggested Reading Interviewing for a Real Estate Position How To Calculate Real Estate Commissions Getting the House House Ready for Showings Suggested Reading Real Estate Appraisal Methods Fair Housing Issues for Real Estate Pros How To Measure a Home's Square Footage Recent Discussions Excellent credit, no savings- help!! Buying an out of state home ? Re-financing... Related Blogs Mortgage Fraud Blog The Real Estate Blog The Money Pit Most Popular Modular and Manufactured Homes Finding Your Best Place to ... Home Buying Don'ts First Time Home Buyer Tips Before You Sell Your Home What's Hot Coping with Unethical People How To Buy Land Real Estate Appraisal Before You Buy a Log Home Package Home Buying / Selling - GuideReviews Related Topics Home Repair Architecture Credit / Debt Management Housekeeping Landscaping Preparing Your Sellers for Home Showings From Janet Wickell , Your Guide to Home Buying / Selling . FREE Newsletter. Sign Up Now! Introduce sellers to the realities of showing their home You've already talked with your sellers about the physical work involved to get a home ready to show, but have you mentioned other events that may take place while the house is on the market? Giving home sellers a basic education in Buyers 101 will help prepare them for the realities of showing their house.
Be Ready to Show at All Times
Sellers should be aware that same-day and even last-minute requests for showings are common, so a seller with a '24 hour notice to show' stipulation often cuts himself out of a good chunk of the buying market. The only standard hefty lag time that should be necessary is when you must give ample notice to a tenant.
Once a house gets tagged difficult to show by agents, you won't receive as many calls to show it. If sellers choose to make showings difficult, be sure to tell them now that it will cut down on showings--and fewer showings equals fewer potential buyers.
Keep it Flexible
Explain to your home sellers that most agents do try to arrive within the scheduled showing time, but sometimes it isn't possible. They may get stuck in traffic, or the house they saw prior to your showing took longer than expected. It happens, and sometimes it happens too late to be fixed by a phone call.
Encourage sellers to stay away from home a little longer than they think is necessary, just to make sure they don't interrupt a showing.
Sellers Who Want to Be Present
This is nearly always a bad idea. Sellers think agents and buyers won't be able to find everything, that they must be there to point out important features. Truthfully, most just want to be present to see buyer reaction firsthand.
Sellers should be aware that at the very least buyers feel uncomfortable when they are present, and that it can actually kill a sale. Buyers often won't even open closet or cabinet doors when the seller is home, and when they cannot view a house comfortably, they'll hurry up and move on to the next one.
Sellers want to talk, and not just about the house. You never know when a buyer will be turned off by the mood of the seller, or by a statement the seller makes. Buyers are there to look at the house, not chit chat about hobbies or the weather or worse--politics and other controversial topics.
If sellers must be home during a showing, counsel them to go outside or stay put in one location, not wander around with the agent and buyers.
Sellers Who Want YOU To Be Present for All Showings
If you're selling a large estate or complicated property, it might be the norm to plan on being present for all showings, but it's not necessary or smart for the typical house.
Explain that other agents generally feel uncomfortable with the selling agent hanging around, listening to and participating in conversations with potential buyers. If the other agent is representing the buyers as a buyer's agent, she won't be free to have open discussions about the house in front of you.
There's another negative that may be more important: busy agents don't have time to work around your schedule. Requiring the listing agent to be present for all showings is another way to give the house that difficult to show reputation.
If your sellers are worried about theft of small items, they should store them away . Packing up collections and small personal items is part of the process they should have already gone through to prepare the house for showings .
Pets Must Be Controlled
Pets should be out of the house during showings, especially large dogs, since many people are afraid of them. A gruff bark coming from inside the house is enough to make some home buyers turn around at the front door.
If there are pet odors, talking with your seller about the subject can be tricky, because most people are not aware of odors in their own home. You may need to conjure up your best be-tactful mode to deal with that subject, but it must be dealt with. Your sellers don't want buyers to remember the home as the house that smells .
Gaining Seller Cooperation
Share showing information in a 'did you know this about buyers' tone, rather than simply telling a seller what he must do. Explaining why these steps are important helps sellers realize that it's in their best interests to comply.
Consider putting showing advice on paper in an easy-to-read format. Give the seller a day or so to digest the information, then ask if he has any questions about the information.
Show that you respect the seller's opinions by asking what he thinks are the home's best features, then spotlight those features in a flyer or brochure that can be left on a table for prospective buyers.
Sellers usually just want to help. It's up to you to figure out a way to give them a role in the sales process, one that is truly helpful and that won't have a negative impact on showings. Important disclaimer information about this About site. Topic Index | Email to a Friend Our Story | Be a Guide | Advertising Info | Work at About | Site Map | Icons | Help User Agreement | Ethics Policy | Patent Info. | Privacy Policy | Kids' Privacy Policy ©2005 About, Inc., A part of the New York Times Company . All rights reserved. Around About Oprah's Life Vacation Ideas Shop Safely Online VIDEO: Craft Rooms VIDEO: Christmas Traditions What's Hot Coping with Unethical People How To Buy Land Real Estate Appraisal Before You Buy a Log Home Package Home Buying / Selling - GuideReviews
Purchase Property
Boston.com / Real estate Buying Renting Recent sales Place an ad Luxury Living Community data Financing Commercial Moving Guides Making an offer MORE Buying Guide: Step 1: What can I afford? Step 2: Find an Affordable Place Step 3. Home Buyer Counseling Step 4. Pre-Qualification Step 5. Making an Offer Step 6. Applying for a Mortgage Step 7. The Home Inspection Step 8. The Closing Process Get more information on home buying. Click here NEWS LINK NEWS LINK USEFUL LINKS Mass Housing pre-qualification Affordability calculator Income worksheet Debt worksheet Frequently asked questions RESOURCES For Sale: Homes | Condos | Open Houses For Rent: Apartments | Houses | Roommates Vacation rentals Place an ad: On Boston.com | In the Globe Commercial: Search listings for sale or rent TOOL KIT Printer-friendly version E-mail to a friend Once you've found the home that best meets your wants, needs and budget, it's time to make an offer. An offer is a formal bid for the property, and among other things, sets the amount you are willing to pay for the home. The Offer to Purchase is a signed contract and is therefore a legally binding commitment stating that you will buy the property provided certain terms and conditions are met. An accepted Offer to Purchase Real Estate must be in writing and must be signed by both parties; the Commonwealth of Massachusetts does not recognize verbal offers as valid. You might consider bringing your lawyer into the process before you sign anything, because an attorney can protect your interests as a first-time home buyer. Considerations Many factors come into play as you prepare to make an offer on a property. Carefully consider the following points: What is the condition and age of the house? What will be the cost of any repairs? Are the sellers willing to take on any of the repairs or closing costs? How long has the property been on the market? How active is the market? (i.e., buyers or sellers market) Are the sellers anxious to sell? Is the property in a particularly desirable location or school system? Does the house have everything or almost everything you've been looking for? Preparing the Offer When you are ready to make an offer to a seller or to the agent involved, do not offer more than you can afford. The offer should clearly outline all terms and conditions of the sale, including your name and the name of the party to whom the offer is made, the property's address, any special provisions regarding fixtures, appliances, etc., the total amount of the purchase price being offered (including the amount of deposit you are putting down to bind the offer and the additional deposit to be paid upon the execution of the Purchase and Sale Agreement), and any additional riders and deadline dates. Real Estate Regulations for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts can be obtained from www.mass.gov Timing and Deadlines Timing and deadlines are very important in real estate transactions. You should allow yourself enough time in the Offer to Purchase Real Estate to get an inspection, negotiate the Purchase and Sale Agreement, apply for and obtain mortgage financing, and set a closing date. Real estate deals often fail based on the inability to meet deadlines set forth in the offer. An Accepted Offer The seller may accept, reject or counter your offer. If there is a counter-offer, you may in turn accept, reject or counter. The negotiations between you and the seller could go on for several days and may be stressful at times. One way to mitigate stress during the negotiations is to involve a broker to mediate the process. It is important to remember that regardless of the progress of your negotiations, the house remains on the market during negotiations. Do I Need an Attorney? It is recommended that you retain an attorney when purchasing your first home. How will an Attorney help me? An attorney will protect your interests as a home buyer, and will: Help you negotiate a fair purchase price Help you prepare the Offer to Purchase Help you negotiate a more favorable purchase price if the home inspection uncovers significant problems Draft and/or revise the Purchase and Sale Agreement to protect you and your money Assist you with the mortgage process Prepare you for the final walk-through of the property Attend the closing and represent your interests. Tips for Successful Negotiations When negotiating the price of a home with the seller, you must analyze all of the relevant factors and determine who has the stronger bargaining position. Potential factors include market activity, location and timing. If the local market is active with many other buyers interested in the home, the seller may have the better position. If your local market is not active and the seller needs to sell the home, you may be in a better position to negotiate. For negotiating tips, Go The Purchase and Sale Agreement Once your offer has been accepted a Purchase and Sales agreement (normally the second contract between the buyer and the seller after the initial Offer to Purchase is signed) is drawn up by the broker. The Purchase and Sale Agreement spells out the agreement between the parties in specific detail. REMEMBER! This is a legally binding contract that should be reviewed by your attorney before you sign it. There are two types of Purchase and Sale Agreements: a Standard Form Purchase and Sale Agreement and a Condominium Purchase and Sales Agreement, which is designed specifically for issues associated with condominiums. It is a good idea to contact a broker to obtain copies of these forms. For a description of all components of a sales contract, Go Provisions and Contingencies By placing provisions and contingencies in your offer, you provide additional protections for you and your money. The Purchase and Sale Agreement should include a mortgage contingency clause, which states that your ability to buy the house is contingent upon your ability to obtain financing by an agreed upon date. Such a clause ensures that you do not lose your deposit on the house if your loan is not approved. Other contingencies should include acceptable home, termite, radon and lead paint inspections. The loan closing date and occupancy date should also be indicated in the agreement. For more information on provisions and contingencies, Go The Home Inspection What is the value of a home inspection? A satisfactory home inspection, although not required by law, is a major component of purchasing a home. A home inspection examines the condition of the property, and ensures that you are aware of any necessary repairs and potential problems before you buy the home. The buyer selects a licensed home inspector and pays for the inspection. The home inspection will cost a few hundred dollars but should be done; after all, uncovering problems before you buy could save you thousands. For more information, see Step 7: The Home Inspection . feedback | help | site map | advertising | globe archives | rss © 2006 The New York Times Company Real Estate Guide - Massachusetts Home Builder - New Home Construction
Denver Real Estate Site
Request Denver relocation info - real estate services Request Denver relocation package The home buying process is easy when you know the answers; learn how to finance your home, how much it will cost and more.. [ Click Here for More ] Personalize your search and have results delivered to your inbox daily. This HomeFinder service is the most popular of all. [ Click Here for More ] Select featured homes offering a virtual tour, so you can enjoy a tour from the comforts of your home anytime, day or night. [ Click Here for More ] search Denver Real Estate Site Request Denver Relocation Package To order a personalized relocation package with information about the Denver area, please fill out the following form, a valid e-mail address is necessary, after your request has been confirmed your package will be sent. The relocation package is prepared with you in mind. Some items are "standard", of coursebut the whole purpose of preparing a package is to make it relevant to you. Therefore the moreI know about you and your needs, the better I can prepare your package. What You Will Receive in a Relocation Package Denver Map Colorado Map Demographic reports on schools and neighborhoods as per your criteria State Facts including population and income County Facts Houses of Worship Listing of Public and Private Schools Denver Quick Facts Personalized Items Drive times from work/school Sample homes pin pointed on a map for convenience Special needs: schools, transportation, etc. First Time Homebuyers Book Financing references This category is open, you let me know what your needs are, I'll try to fill them! NOTE: I specialize in helping home buyers relocate to Denver and purchase real estate. Rental homes and apartments are a different specialty, one that I do not work in. If you need rentalassistance follow this link... Denver Rental Property. Need Boxes? Moving Boxes? Click here for discounted moving boxes delivered right to your door! Kristal Kraft , ABR, CIPS, CRS Licensed real estate broker selling Colorado Since 1984 The Berkshire Group Realtors, Inc. 3801 E. Florida Ave, Suite 502, Denver, Colorado U.S.A. 80210 800-319-7738 toll free | 303-589-2022 direct | 720-554-7961 fax E-mail: Kristal Kraft, Realtor 1998-2005, © Reflective Motion Inc. | Privacy Policy | Site Credits | Disclaimer | Site Map ~2 ~3 ~4 Denver Relocation | Buy a Home In Denver | Sell a Home in Denver | Denver Map | Denver Neighborhood Profiles | Denver Sales Statistics | International Real Estate | A Bio | My Favorite Places | Real Estate Resources Denver Loft Homes | The Berkshire Group | Buy and Sell Denver | We Sell Denver | Denver Colorado Real Estate | Denver Blog
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Asheville Real Estate, North Carolina Luxury Homes, Mountain Real Estate, NC Horse Farms Home | Featured Listings | MLS Search | About Us | Contact Us Horse Farms | Land | Luxury Homes | Condos & Lofts | Waterfront Property | Commercial | 1031 Exchange Phone Asheville Real Estate 828.694.1558 Asheville MLS Search Featured Listings Search Asheville MLS Search Tryon MLS North Carolina Horse Farms North Carolina Horse Farms Featured Horse Farm For Sale Featured Waterfront Horse Farm Featured Equestrian Center For Sale Equestrian Communities North Carolina Land North Carolina Land For Sale Featured Development Land For Sale Featured South Carolina Land For Sale Land Conservancy North Carolina Luxury Homes North Carolina Luxury Homes Asheville Condos and Lofts Asheville Waterfront Homes Featured Asheville Luxury Home Featured Asheville Contemporary Home Featured South Carolina Luxury Home North Carolina Commercial Real Estate 1031 Exchange Real Estate Commercial Real Estate Featured Event Facility For Sale Sheelah Clarkson Asheville Real Estate Agency About Us Asheville Real Estate Careers Sitemap Contact Us Member, Realtors Land Institute Sheelah Clarkson Asheville Real Estate Agency Uncommon Properties for the Uncommon Lifestyle December 29, 2005 S heelah Clarkson Asheville Real Estate Agency is privileged to offer signature services for investors and buyers seeking investment property and gracious living. We serve as national and international buyer's agents for North Carolina luxury homes, horse farms, land, commercial real estate and 1031 exchange property. Our service area spans western North Carolina mountain real estate and upstate South Carolina properties with a focus on real estate in Asheville NC and the nearby towns of Hendersonville, Brevard, and Tryon. If you are looking for exceptional mountain property, please contact us . Western North Carolina MLS Search Sheelah Clarkson Asheville Real Estate Agency offers the rare opportunity to search thousands of mountain real estate and luxury homes listings in two Asheville area MLS systems covering more than a dozen counties across western North Carolina and upstate South Carolina. Search Asheville MLS listings in the Western North Carolina Regional MLS , an MLS search covering Asheville real estate as well as properties across more than a dozen counties. Search listings in Hendersonville, Waynesville, Mars Hill, Black Mountain, Maggie Valley and Brevard NC. Search Tryon MLS listings in the Polk County MLS , an MLS search that includes real estate in Tryon, Columbus, Saluda, parts of Rutherford County and parts of upstate South Carolina. Some Asheville real estate offerings, including certain exclusive luxury estates and commercial properties are not listed on any public MLS. If you are seeking high end luxury homes, large acreage tracts of land, or commercial real estate in western North Carolina, please contact us to receive information about select properties that meet your requirements. Our Uncommon Real Estate Services At Sheelah Clarkson Asheville Real Estate Agency, we dedicate ourselves to the uncommon -- uncommon ideas, uncommon properties, and uncommon service. We're pleased to specialize in properties of unique character. Luxury Homes : As western North Carolina luxury homes specialists, we showcase the most distinctive private estates and luxury properties for national and international buyers. Our expertise spans the luxury real estate market throughout the greater Asheville area, allowing us to present buyers with a portfolio of the most notable estates our region has to offer. Horse Farms : We are pleased to present our equestrian clients with this region's state-of-the-art horse farms and fine equestrian estates. Some of the most exclusive horse farms for sale in North Carolina can be found in our area. We are equestrians serving equestrians and we know North Carolina's premiere horse country by heart. Our featured farm for sale is a meticulous 39-acre equestrian estate near Asheville . The property features a 2001 custom built home with matching barn and fenced pastures for your horses. This horse farm offers exceptional year mountain views and is located only minutes from some of western North Carolinas most beautiful public horse trails. Land : Serving as buyer's agents, we assist investors in locating western North Carolina land. Often, the larger tracts are not listed in the public MLS. We work through a network of regional specialists to identify large acreage tracts of mountain land for sale. Our featured landfor sale is a rare large acreage tract of development land. This 228 acres of land in Waynesville NC is ideal for urban village or mixed use development in keeping with smart growth concepts. 1031 Exchange : Our brokers specialize in western North Carolina 1031 exchange property for those seeking the benefits of a tax deferred exchange. We assist buyers in finding their replacement properties quickly. Commercial Real Estate : With more than twodecades of experience in industrial and commercial real estate sales and acquisitions, SheelahClarkson Asheville Real Estate Agency offersboth industry-wide expertise and regional insight into the western North Carolinacommercial real estate markets. Asheville Real Estate at Its Finest Whether we are working for local sellers, national buyers, or international investors, we maintain personal, client-focused service as the hallmark of our brokerage firm. With licensing in both Carolinas and a quarter century of experience in the commercial and luxury home markets, Sheelah Clarkson Asheville Real Estate Agency brings to the table regional know-how, sound business expertise, and world-class solutions. Please contact us to view a portfolio of fine properties that meet your specifications. Credits Programming and Database Development by S2L Design Photograph of Asheville courtesy of David Bonyun Hawaii Real Estate | International Luxury Homes To report problems with this site: administrator@sheelahclarkson.com Asheville Real Estate | Asheville North Carolina MLS | Tryon North Carolina MLS | Asheville Homes For Sale | Asheville Condos North Carolina Luxury Homes | North Carolina Land For Sale | North Carolina Acreage | North Carolina Mountain Real Estate North Carolina Horse Farms | Equestrian Communities | Horse Property | Equestrian Property | North Carolina Mountain Land North Carolina Commercial Real Estate | 1031 Exchange Real Estate | NC Waterfront Property | Sitemap | Links | About Us | Contact Info © 2005 Sheelah Clarkson Sheelah Clarkson Asheville Real Estate Agency • PO Box 8804 • Asheville,NC 28814-8804 Phone 828.694.1558 • Fax 828.694.1549 • Email sheelah@sheelahclarkson.com