Make an Offer That Sellers Can't Refuse

Make an Offer That Sellers Can't Refuse

Are You Ready to Make An Offer?

   Your real estate agent has shown you homes and you now want to make an offer. These days, everyone is looking for "a deal", but you need to be able to recognize "a deal" when you see it.

The comparable active and sold property information that your agent gives you should help you determine what market value is for this home and how asking price compares. The home may be priced above market value, but if it is priced belowt or at market, even if you made a full price offer you still would be getting a good deal.

Compare this home with the others you have seen in your price range. How does it rank among them? If it out-shines the other available properties, has more upgrades, better location, or a more appealing floor plan, for example, it will have more value than the others.

A seller offering to pay all or some closing costs, is providing a home warranty that transfers to the buyer at closing, or is willing to work with your time table also adds value. All things to consider.

In closing, a "lowball" offer does not guarantee getting a "good deal" on a home and may actually have more negative effects than positive. You have to be able to recognize a good price when you see it, and if you are a serious buyer, make an offer and negotiate it from an educated standpoint. Be realistic and stay focused on what you and your agent are trying to achieve - not the thrill of the game - and you will get the prize!

What You Should Know About Working With A REALTOR

As a REALTOR, I think buyers and sellers should always seek the services of a real estate professional when looking to buy or sell property. But my opinion is definitely biased!  Yes, selling real estate is my job, but honestly, money is not the only reason I do it. In fact, and I know you won't believe me, but as I progress through the purchase or sales transaction and I get to know my clients, their dreams become my dreams, and the commission check I get at closing is almost an afterthought!  Told you you wouldn't believe me...but it is true!

• A real estate professional can help sellers increase their bottom line by knowing the market and what similar homes have recently sold for. Pricing your home correctly from the onset is very important and your agent can help you determine what the value of your home is.
• Agents have many tools available to them to advertise your property and get buyer attention. Close to 90% of buyers start their search on the internet and agents have access to websites, the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), and resources that syndicate listings to all major real estate websites basically all over the world.
• Real estate is our job and agents work at selling your home or property every day.
• Perhaps you're tempted to sell your home on your own because you think you will get more money, Before you put that "FSBO" sign in your yard, be aware that it can indicate to buyers that you would be willing to take a lower price. In addition, strangers will be ringing your bell to see your home who may not really be interest in purchasing or who are not qualified to get a mortgage. Agents know how to screen perspective buyers, have the contacts to get them qualified for a mortgage, and know how to negotiate price and other important aspects of a contract.
• Buyers should choose a REALTOR they want to represent them with care, but once you find one you are comfortable with, you should sign a buyer's agreement. A buyer's agency agreement is a commitment that goes both ways. It not only commits the agent to you, but also shows the agent that you are also comitted to him or her and that you have confidence in how they will represent you. Once they know know that, they will work tirelessly for you.
• When you find a home, an agent can provide market information and insight to help you determine what kind of offer to make. They will not tell you what you should pay - that is up to you, but they can tell you why a seller may or may not take less and provide the tools so you can make an informed decision.
  

In conclusion, once you have found a good agent, stick with them and let them do their job. The rewards will be great.