Why are you selling?
It is your investment, and you can do whatever you want with your house, but it’s helpful to scrutinize your reasons for wanting to sell. You might feel that your new station in life warrants a bigger home in a Beverly Hills-type neighborhood. However, will you be able to keep up with the mortgage for such a house? Some sell because they need a fresh start after a break-up or have got a job in another state.
If prevailing market conditions are unfavorable and you don’t have to sell immediately, wait another year or two.
Will I get the right price?
Ask yourself, if you were to sell today, would you at least break even on your investment? That is, will you be able to pay off the outstanding balance of your mortgage with the proceeds from the sale? If your answer is no, it might be best to wait until the prices climb a little.
To get an idea of what the current going price of your house is, try and find out the sale prices for similar properties in your neighborhood. However, first, contact your lender to get an accurate picture of your outstanding balance.
Is it the right time for you to sell?
The real estate market is a volatile one. The beginning of last year was a good time to put your home on the market as prices had risen, occasioned by high demand. During the second half of the year, however, there was a slow-down in that rise thanks to ballooning interest rates on mortgages. So should you sell this year?
The rising interest rates will discourage folks from making new applications, but the fact remains, housing is in short supply across the country. So people are still in the market for homes now. Moreover, while interest rates are rising, they are still relatively low. You may as well take a chance on the present than speculate on the uncertain future.
What’s the condition of your house?
To fetch the best price in the market, you need to sell your house in tip-top condition. That means investing in extensive renovations depending on its current state. You might have to replace a raft of broken tiles, redo the flooring or begin weeding out the garden.
Ask for a statement of your house loan from your lender if you’re seriously contemplating flipping your house.
About the Author
Cary Garcia
As a real estate broker licensed in Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C., I work strictly by referral. For over 20 years, my success has hinged entirely on detailed, efficient service to clients like you.
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Finding a real estate agent is easy. Finding a skilled agent is the hardest…What separates me from other real estate agents is my extensive knowledge of contract law. You need an agent who understands the legality of the contract by enforcing the terms of the offer as well as all of the contingencies, addendums and disclosures. Before signing the offer, I will thoroughly explain the contract in detail, so you understand what you are committing to.I bring an expert’s perspective to help buyers and sellers make the right decisions.
Because I understand the legal and highly emotional aspects associated with real estate transactions, I am able to provide expert guidance to help you make informed and educated decisions. In addition, I’m very skilled at project coordination.
With so many people involved in the home sale process, I know how to create satisfying resolutions and make the process go as smoothly and successfully as possible.