homebuyers

One of the things that homebuyers seem to take for granted is that every real estate agent knows how to negotiate. It’s much more than simply extending an offer and writing up a contract, and it’s something that not every agent knows how to do well. Of course, it’s important that every step of the home buying process is handled properly, which is why we recommend always choosing an experienced Realtor® with a great reputation.

But it’s not unusual for buyers to be so happy they’ve found the right home, that they forget how critical it is to have an experienced negotiator on their side. In fact, it’s not only the agent’s negotiating experience that matters – but also their knowledge of the area, the neighborhood, the history of the home, and even the Seller’s agent (and then some!). Having all this information not only allows your agent to exude an air of confidence, but it also means they’ll be able to be creative, flexible, and “read the room” – making sure they get the best deal possible on your behalf.

Once you’ve found the home that you love, it’s time to move on to the next step: Negotiating the deal and writing the sales contract. The contract will put all the details in writing, but the negotiation is where the competency of your Realtor® will play a major role through this process. If you have an experienced real estate agent who has written hundreds of sales contracts, you should be in good hands. Make sure that you take your time and ask any questions you may have (because we promise you, there are no dumb questions during this stage of the home buying process!).

Buyers in hot, or even warm, markets need to remember that no one gives anything away in real estate. Sellers may very likely have multiple offers on their home, and they get to pick and choose. If your agent makes a lowball offer while others are offering list price (or even more, which is common), you very likely receive a firm, “No.” – – And just like that, the home of your dreams is gone ☹

Agreeing on a price is just the beginning. Because even if you’re thinking you got a ‘smokin’ deal’ – remember how true this is: The devil is in the details. Some of those details that can end up putting you on the receiving end of a bad transaction include the appraisal, time frame, property inspection, who pays for needed repairs, costs and fees, seller incentives – – and the list goes on. There’s no point in buying a home for a great purchase price if you’re responsible for massive repair costs due to the inspection results. Or if the buyer doesn’t have to move for 8 months. Or, … well, you get the picture.

Don’t be the buyer that an inexperienced agent uses as their “Guinea Pig” to learn what not to do. Your time, money, and life are too important for that. Make sure your Realtor® knows their stuff, because it will save you much frustration, anxiety, and grief down the road.

New Home Resource helps current and future homeowners with all of their Las Vegas real estate needs. Whether your preference is for property management, a newly built home from a local builder, or a resale property in just the right location, a New Home Resource Realtor® is here to provide just the service you’re looking for. Please contact a New Home Resource Realtor® today at 702-365-1000 or at www.newhomeresource.com. Broker Joanna Piette, and agents Denise Moreno Thrasher, Jessica O’Brien, Evelyn ‘Beng’ Kern, and Kathy Paterniti are all here to help!

When it comes to selling your home, there are certain rules that are pretty hard and fast, regardless of the state of the real estate market you’re selling in. In a difficult market, even more creativity may be necessary so that your home stands out from the crowd and has a better-than-even shot at finding a buyer. But before you get to those bells and whistles, make sure this vital checklist of items is marked as “Done!”

1. That “For Sale By Owner” (FSBO) Sign is Not Your Friend.

Numbers don’t lie. Those who sell homes without the aid of a real estate professional find their homes on the market longer, and get a lower price – than those who have representation. From digital and print exposure to signage and industry networking, most FSBO sellers don’t have access to even a small percentage of these tools. They make a difference in your bottom line.

2. Set the Right Price.

And by this, we mean don’t overprice, and don’t underprice, either. A professional understands the market and can gather information of what comparable homes are selling for. You want everything you can get for your home, right?

3. Repairs.

Some might think waiting to do repairs ‘until the buyer’s walk-through’ is the smart way to go. Maybe they think they’ll save a few dollars if certain things aren’t ‘noticed.’ Wrong. Prospective buyers who view your home see it all . . . and often even more than you do. When they’re comparing your home to the many others they are considering, that puts you at the bottom of the list. Unless someone is looking for a fixer-upper (and for that, they’ll expect a discount on your price) – make those repairs BEFORE you start showing. You know the saying, you never get a second chance to make a good first impression.

4. Straighten Up!

Buyers also look at lots of new home models before they purchase – whether they’re considering buying there, or simply want decorating tips for the home they do buy. They’re used to seeing homes in clean, uncluttered condition, nicely presented and not crowded with “stuff.” Even if you need to rent a storage space to place extra furniture or boxed belongings, it will be worth it when you reap the reward of the best sales price.

5. Vacant Homes – Big Mistake.

Your job may have called you away sooner than you planned and you had to move out before you could sell. But when buyers view vacant homes, its emptiness gives the impression of ‘abandonment’ – and all the bad images that conjures up in maintenance neglect and more. A small investment to use a local staging company (that dresses up your home with furniture and accessories) will pay for itself in a faster sale.

6. It’s Not Personal – It’s Just Business.

Another excellent reason to have a real estate professional manage your transaction. Your home is personal to you (as it should be) – and it’s easy to let ego get in the way of a win-win transaction for both parties.

7. Disclose, Disclose, Disclose.

It’s a simple document (Real Estate Disclosure) that asks all the right questions – so that you can answer honestly about the condition and your knowledge of the workings in your home. Don’t give your potential buyers any reason to question your integrity, or worse yet, discover imperfections after they purchase. (Lawsuit, anyone?)

8. Timing.

When it comes to real estate, timing really CAN be everything. Your personal financial situation may require closing escrow by a certain date to save yourself thousands in extra taxes. Make sure you know where you stand by speaking with your accountant beforehand, and build those deadlines into your sales contract.

9. Know the Costs.

This one is simple – if you just read your documentation and ask your real estate agent questions about any numbers you don’t understand. Request a copy of your closing costs statement prior to escrow recording so there’s no financial surprises at the last minute.

10. Photos Can Make Your Home.

More than 90% of all homebuyers begin their search online – so that’s the very first place your home will be seen. Amateur photos taken with a smartphone or digital pad aren’t going to show off your home’s best side. Your real estate agent will make sure that top-quality images are taken and used to market your home in all their coordinated online sales efforts.

New Home Resource helps current and future homeowners with their Las Vegas real estate needs. Please contact a New Home Resource Realtor® today at 702-365-1000 or at www.newhomeresource.com. Broker Joanna Piette, and agents Denise Moreno Thrasher, Jessica O’Brien, Evelyn ‘Beng’ Kern, Lance Partin and Kathy Paterniti are all here to help!