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When it’s time to sell your home, you’ll likely interview several real estate agents until you find the one that best fits your needs. Once you’ve settled on an agent, you’ll be asked to sign a listing agreement. But what is a listing agreement, and how does it work? Here we’ll answer some common questions we often get about them.

What is a listing agreement?

Simply put, a listing agreement is a contract between a seller and a real estate agent or company. It is legally binding and gives the agent the ability to sell the home on the seller’s behalf.

Are there different types of listing agreements?

There are a few different types of listing agreements. The most common include:

• Exclusive Right to Sell — This is the most common listing agreement and it gives the agent or brokerage complete control over the transaction as well as the agreed-upon commission.
• Exclusive Agency — This listing agreement gives one agent the right to sell the home. The seller can also find their own buyer, and the agent would not receive a commission if they do.
• Open — This listing agreement has the lowest commitment. Any agent who finds a buyer can get the commission or the seller can find their own buyer without paying a commission.

What’s included in a listing agreement?

A listing agreement will contain details about the entire home sale. This includes how the home can be marketed, laws that need to be followed, how disputes will be mediated or resolved, and rights to use photos, videos, descriptions, etc. of the home. If you’re the seller, then be sure to read the listing agreement closely so you know exactly what you are agreeing to.

Can listing agreements be negotiated?

Everything in real estate is negotiable, including the listing agreement. If there are aspects of the typical agreement that make you uncomfortable, then talk to your agent. Items that are often negotiated include commission, expiration date, list price, seller and agent responsibilities, and the type of listing agreement.

Do listing agreements expire?

Listing agreements usually contain an expiration date and will vary from seller to seller. They typically last between two and six months and are often influenced by current market conditions. The expiration date is a part of the agreement that can be negotiated.

Can a listing agreement be terminated?

Since the listing agreement is a contract, there are no specific terms for termination. If you’re concerned about this, then you can ask the agent to include terms for ending the contract early. In many cases, if you are not happy with the service you are receiving from one agent, then you may ask to work with another agent in the same brokerage.

Is there a cost associated with a listing agreement?

There is no upfront cost associated with a listing agreement. Instead, the listing agreement will outline how the agent will be compensated for finding a buyer for the home. Listing agreements may also contain clauses that if the contract is terminated early, then the seller will compensate the agent for any expenses that were incurred.

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Home inspections are a common part of the closing process in any real estate transaction. During a home inspection, a professional inspector will examine and evaluate the property, looking at its safety and condition. It gives buyers a better understanding of what they are purchasing and may alert them to problems or issues that need to be repaired or addressed. However, home inspections aren’t all-encompassing and do not include every detail about a home. These are some of the things that inspectors will not include in their examination.

Pest infestations

You would think home inspectors would be on the lookout for pest infestations, but you’d be wrong. While inspectors may note if there is a serious or obvious pest infestations and recommend a pest control company, they will not be looking for them specifically. It’s best to hire https://pelicanpestcontrol.com/our-services/ for a closer look. If you’re really concerned about pests in the home, then you will need to hire an inspector that specializes in termites and other pests as well as provides professional pest and termite control services.

Pools and spas

Pools and outdoor spas can be huge selling points for many homes. But don’t be surprised when your home inspector fails to examine them. Pool maintenance and repair can get expensive, so if you’re buying a home with a pool it may be beneficial to hire a certified pool builder to examine your pool for issues.

Mold

Mold can be a serious health risk in a home. It is more present in homes that are located in humid climates, but in truth, it can grow anywhere. Mold can cause health problems and aggravate existing conditions like allergies and asthma. But your home inspector will not be looking for evidence of mold in the home. You’ll need to hire a mold inspector who will examine the home for mold problems and may send samples to the lab for testing. If there’s a mold problem, you will need to hire a professional remediator to address it.

Detached structures

Detached structures like garages, sheds, and barns are also not typically included in your home inspection. If the property you’re considering purchasing has detached structures or outbuildings, you may be able to negotiate an added fee for your inspector to also examine them.

Security systems

Your home inspector will look at the locks on doors and windows to make sure they are in working order. But if the home has a security system, that will not be included. You can hire a security professional like the ones at 365 Patrol services to assess your system to make sure it’s adequately protecting the property.

Asbestos, lead, and radon

While new homes no longer contain asbestos and lead, you still need to think about these things if you’re purchasing an older home. A home inspector will not be checking for lead paint, radon in your basement, or asbestos in your building materials. You may need the help of an asbestos consultant sydney for proper assessment.

These toxic substances can cause serious health problems and will need to be removed if your home contains them. If your home does have lead or asbestos, they will need to be removed by an asbestos removal professional. You can ask your home inspector about adding radon testing as an additional fee. You can also purchase a home testing kit.

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We are in a seller’s market. Many buyers are discovering that there is fierce competition for homes that are for sale. Buyer demand is outstripping supply, and most homes that are listed receive multiple offers. This is driving prices higher and limiting the number of contingencies that buyers can include. In some cases, buyers are waiving their right to a home inspection. While this tactic may get you a winning offer, it can also mean unforeseen major expenses once you close. So how can you make an offer that gets accepted without waiving your right to have the home inspected before closing? Here’s what you need to know.

Get preapproved for a mortgage

We cannot overstate the importance of getting preapproved for a mortgage, especially in today’s market. Sellers have many offers to choose from, and they are going to go with the most serious buyer. You will not appear serious about your offer unless you’ve gotten preapproved for a mortgage. This lets the seller know that you’re more likely to make it to the closing table without any issues.

Save up for a big down payment

Another way to make your offer stand out is to have a large down payment ready. Having a stash of cash to pay upfront will make you more attractive to most sellers. They will feel more confident choosing your offer because your financing will be easier to close. You may have to spend more time saving up for your down payment, but the results can be worth it.

Use an escalation clause

Negotiating a deal between the buyer and seller can take a significant amount of time. For this reason, using an escalation clause in your offer can make it stand out. This way, the seller knows how much more you’re willing to up the ante to have your offer accepted. Your clause can include how much more you’re willing to spend over any other offer up to a certain amount.

Ask for an informational home inspection

One of the reasons that buyers are waiving their right to an inspection is because some deals may fall through based on what the inspection uncovers. Why would sellers want to take that risk, if they know that a buyer could potentially walk away? Instead of including an inspection contingency that states you can back out of the deal based on what the inspection finds, ask for an informational inspection, also if you need plumbing repairs, it’s better to contact experienced plumbers to help in this area. This means you can still get a home inspection during the closing process. But it will be for information purposes only — the seller will not be on the hook for repairs and will not need to renegotiate the deal based on the findings. This way, you as the buyer will know what you’re getting into and can be more prepared for repairs that may require the services of roofing contractors, plumbing contractors, etc.

Keep trying

Because the market is so competitive right now, you may put in an excellent offer and still have it rejected. Don’t let that dissuade you from making your dreams of homeownership a reality. You may have to make several offers before yours is the one that wins the deal. Persistence is key in 2021.

Work with a pro

If you want to make a winning offer without having to give up a home inspection, then your best bet is to work with an expert. A professional real estate agent can give you the best advice to make your offer both appealing to the seller and less risky for you. Give us a call today!

When you sell your home, you want to get the best return on investment (ROI) possible. Your home is one of the biggest investments you’ll make in your lifetime, and maximizing your profit potential is key. While the market currently favors sellers, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t think about the ways you can get the most attractive offer possible. Here are our best tips for maximizing your home’s ROI in today’s market.

Don’t be afraid to spend money

The old saying “it takes money to make money” is particularly true when it comes to real estate. You will realize the greatest profit on your home if you’re willing to spend a little money to make improvements before listing. If you don’t have the money needed for these upgrades, then you may be able to qualify for a low- or no-interest loan. The loan will then be paid off when you close.

Focus on cosmetics

When you’re selling your home, you’re essentially selling a dream. Every potential buyer who views your property is going to try to visualize themselves living in your space. Make it enticing by focusing on cosmetic appeal. First, make sure your home is sparkling clean. Hire a professional cleaning crew if necessary. This is especially important because buyers are concerned about safety after the pandemic we have all just lived through. Apply fresh coats of paint inside and out. Install new appliances, switch out lighting fixtures, and add new hardware to doors and cabinets. Small improvements like these can make a big impression on buyers.

Consider hiring a professional stager

If you really want your home to stand out, then consider hiring a professional staging company. They will use their own furniture and decor to transform your home into an oasis. While you may end up spending a few thousand dollars for staging, the results can be impressive. It can mean the difference between selling for your listing price or getting substantially more.

Don’t forget the outside

Curb appeal is a major factor in the success of your home sale, especially in the summer. Buyers will be more attracted to homes that have welcoming exteriors. It shows that the home has been cared for and will stand out as a jewel in the neighborhood. Clean up garden beds, trim trees and bushes, power wash sidewalks and driveways, inspect and repair your residential roofing system with the help of clay roof repair services, and plant fresh flowers. A tree removal may also be done to get rid of unhealthy trees and improve your home’s curb appeal. John Beal Roofing can install a new, better roof for your home. Make the front door inviting by painting the door, getting a new mailbox and house numbers, and adding potted flowers or plants. Professional contractors from Toscan Construction can also make repairs to your existing pavement if needed, read more here about their services. Putting a little bit of effort into your home’s yard can make a big difference when buyers are submitting their offers.

Work with an expert

Finally, the best thing you can do to maximize the profit you’ll make on your home sale is to work with an expert in your market. When you work with a seasoned real estate professional, they will understand the complexities of your local market and how to make the most of your property. They’ll also make the process much less stressful, resulting in a more pleasurable and profitable experience all around. Contact us today to get started!

With the world opening back up to travel, more and more people are finally taking those vacations they put off during the pandemic. If you own a vacation home, then now could be an excellent time to put that property up for sale. If your vacation home has its own septic tank, make sure that it gets periodic septic tank maintenance or have it inspected by an emergency septic services contractor before listing your property for sale. This is because, as you can probably picture yourself, a pending septic tank cleaning would show up quite quickly during a home inspection, and would be something to consider for potential buyers.

Let’s take a look at the reasons why you could see a fantastic return on your investment by selling your vacation home today.

Tastes have changed

The pandemic has made us all reevaluate our wants and needs. Many people have determined that they’d like to get away but want to be as safe about it as possible. For this reason, some vacationers are opting to purchase second homes instead of staying in hotels or Airbnbs. In fact, according to the National Association of Home Builders, 15 percent of single-family home sales are vacation homes. When you own a vacation home, you can rest assured knowing that the home is clean and safe and ready to be enjoyed at any time. They are also great places to escape to, particularly for those who work from home.

Inventory is low

Another reason why now is one of the best times to sell your vacation home is that inventory is at all-time lows. There is a serious shortage of homes on the market, and the inventory has not been able to keep up with demand. When you sell your vacation home today, you will face less competition from other homes on the market.

Demand is high

In addition to low inventory, demand for homes — and particularly vacation homes — has skyrocketed. Buyers want to take advantage of historically low interest rates that are a result of the pandemic. Many vacation homes are receiving multiple offers and have even been the subject of bidding wars. If you’re interested in maximizing your return on investment, then conditions are prime for that.

Home prices keep going up

Every seller wants their home to sell for top dollar. In today’s market, you are likely to get an excellent price on your home. Take a look at how much your home will sell today at Buys Houses. Home prices reached a new high in May 2021. The new median home price in the United States is now $380,000. This figure is up more than 15 percent from the same time last year. Experts predict that these prices will continue to stay steady or rise in 2021, giving sellers an almost unbelievable advantage in the market.

Your home will sell fast

Finally, one of the biggest obstacles for selling your vacation home is the time it actually takes to get an offer. But in today’s real estate market, you can feel confident that your vacation home will sell quickly. In fact, the same report by Realtor.com states that homes are selling a full month faster than they did last year, and 19 days faster than the typical time on the market from 2017-2019. Working with a dubai real estate agency, you won’t have to worry about your home languishing on the market or taking too long to close. Buyers are motivated and eager to beat out the competition, especially in desirable vacation destinations.

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We understand that the market is competitive for buyers right now. But don’t let the competition stop you from realizing your homeownership dreams. There are many distinct advantages to owning a home instead of renting. Remembering these benefits can help give you the confidence to pursue the purchase of a home in today’s market. Let’s take a closer look.

Owning is an excellent long-term investment

When you rent, you pay money to your landlord and never see it again. But when you make your mortgage payments, you are investing in yourself. Once your mortgage is paid off, you will have a house that you can sell. Over the years, your home will appreciate in value — it’s like a forced savings account. Furthermore, with regular maintenance and repairs, your home’s resale value will increase so you should not wait to contact professionals to help with the repairs. For instance, a commercial plumbing repair contractor will make sure that any plumbing issues will be fixed properly.

Interest rates are historically low

Because of the pandemic, interest rates are at historic lows. You can get a great deal on a home loan with low interest rates if you qualify. Locking into a low 30-year rate can save you hundreds of dollars a month for many, many years to come. That makes real estate an excellent long-term investment.

You build equity as home prices rise

While the real estate market may fluctuate in the short term, in the long term real estate always increases in value. As you pay down your mortgage and as home prices rise, you build equity. You can then use that equity in a variety of ways, whether it’s funding a down payment on your next home or using it to make improvements on your current home.

Tax breaks

Homeowners get certain tax breaks that aren’t available to renters. These include mortgage interest deductions and property tax deductions. This can lead to significant savings in your tax bill each year.

Steady monthly payments

Unless you live in a rent-controlled property, you don’t know how much your rent will increase from year to year. Your landlord can increase your monthly rent whenever your lease expires. But when you own your home, you know what to expect each month for the payment – now and 30 years from now.

Zero down payments available

One of the obstacles that may be preventing you from considering homeownership is saving for a down payment. But did you know that some home loans require no down payment whatsoever? There are many loan programs out there — especially for first-time buyers — that let you pay nothing for your down payment if you meet certain requirements.

More privacy

Financial benefits aren’t the only advantages to owning vs. renting a home. When you rent, you may have little privacy, especially if you live in an apartment building with thin walls. But when you own your home, you can enjoy a greater sense of privacy. Maybe your new home has a big yard or is built with higher-quality materials that let you feel like you have your own private space.

You can make it your own

Finally, one of the biggest advantages of owning your home is having the freedom to make it your own. You don’t have to worry about getting permission from your landlord to paint, plant a garden, or even hang pictures on the walls. Your space can truly reflect your personal tastes and style, turning a simple house into a home.

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Uh oh — your beloved dog Fido bit a visitor to your home and that person required medical attention for their wound. That’s covered by your homeowners insurance, right? The answer is — maybe. Some dog bites are covered and some aren’t. It often depends on the breed of your dog and your particular insurance company. If you’re a little fuzzy about what your residential or commercial property insurance does and doesn’t cover, read on. You may be surprised to find out under what circumstances your insurance company won’t foot the bill.

Floods

If a flood occurs in your house because a pipe bursts, then that is covered. But if the water is from a hurricane or storm, then it probably is not covered. Flood damage can be expensive, and even though your homeowners insurance does not cover it, you can purchase additional flood insurance from the National Flood Insurance Program. If you live in a place prone to flood damage, then you should seriously consider getting the extra coverage. Be prepared for water damage by getting London basement pumps. Consult a reliable public adjuster if you have questions about insurance settlement. Head To The LMR Public Adjusters Site if you need more help in case your insurance claim had been denied. A professional public adjuster can help you navigate the entire insurance claims process.

Earthquakes

Damage caused by earthquakes is another surprising thing that homeowners insurance doesn’t cover. If you live in an area that experiences earthquakes, then you should purchase a special earthquake policy. You could get a break on your premiums if you make upgrades to your home that will help prevent earthquake damage.

Damage caused by neglect

Your insurance policy won’t cover damage that’s caused by not completing routine maintenance on your home. Routine maintenance includes keeping your home free from moisture, keeping debris away from the foundation of your home, keeping large appliances in working order, and trimming trees and bushes.

Sewer damage

Is there anything worse than having the sewer line back up into your home? Yes — and that’s having to clean up and pay for the damage yourself. If a big storm causes sewer lines to back up into your home, then your insurance company probably won’t cover the damage.

Dog bites

If your dog attacks a visitor to your home and they require medical attention, it may not be covered by your homeowners insurance. While some companies will offer some protection with a liability limit, you may not be covered if your dog is a certain breed. Breeds that are often excluded from policies include pit bulls, German Shepherds, Akitas, and Siberian huskies. When in doubt, check with your insurance agent.

Expensive jewelry or art collections

Your homeowners insurance will cover some of your expensive jewelry or art, but not all of it. Most policies set a limit of around $1,500 on valuables like this. If you have a collection of jewelry or art that is of much greater value than this, you’ll want to get a floater policy. In order to qualify for this type of coverage, your items will need to be professionally appraised.

Detached structures

Finally, not all of the detached structures on your property are covered by your homeowners insurance. This could include outbuildings, sheds, and treehouses. If you just built the perfect she shed where you can relax, then you should check with your insurance agent to see if it’s covered.

In case you haven’t heard, we’re in a seller’s market. Housing inventory remains low while demand is still high. Record-low interest rates and changes in lifestyle due to the pandemic have been driving the real estate auction market for many months. If you’re a seller, then you’re in an enviable position. But that doesn’t mean you can price your home unrealistically high and expect the offers to come rolling in. In a seller’s market, it’s still important to price your home correctly from the start. Here’s how.

Make sure it’s a seller’s market

It’s good advice to confirm that you’re actually in a seller’s market before you make any pricing decisions. While most markets in America are experiencing a seller’s market, demand for homes can vary from place to place. You should look at a few key things when making the decision. First, how long have listings in your neighborhood been on the market before going into contract on average? Fewer days on the market are a good indication that sellers have an advantage. Second, how does the selling price compare to the asking price on recently sold comps? If houses are selling for asking or more, that is also a good sign it’s a seller’s market. Third, have prices been rising over time? If they have, you can also feel confident that you’re in a seller’s market. Visit our website as we buy houses for how much your property is worth.

Look for the right comps

One of the most common ways to get an idea of what your home is worth is to look at comparable sales. But you need to make sure you’re comparing apples to apples. With fewer homes on the market right now, it may be more difficult to find recently sold homes in your area that are similar to yours. Try finding homes that are about the same size, in the same condition, and with many of the same amenities to compare yours to. Visit https://wichitalistings.com/pages/7038270/new-listings.aspx/ to get an idea.

Choose the right pricing strategy

There are basically three strategies you can use when pricing your home for sale. You can price high, low, or at market value. There are compelling arguments in favor of each strategy. Pricing high can work if you aren’t in a hurry to sell or think you could get an all-cash deal with an investor. But be aware that your home could sit on the market or your buyer may have trouble closing on their loan if the appraisal comes in low. Pricing low will give your home lots of exposure and could provoke a bidding war, driving the final price up. Listing at market value gives you the best of both worlds, setting you up to get a full-price offer quickly. You can find more info on the best estate sales raleigh nc here.

Work with a pro

Finally, the best thing you can do to make sure your home for sale is priced correctly from the start is to work with a professional real estate agent. Partnering with an expert in your area is key to a successful home sale. When you work with a good agent, they will bring their knowledge and experience to the table to help you make key decisions. This will make the process less stressful for you and more likely to end with favorable results.

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Buying a home sight unseen is becoming more common, particularly because of the pandemic. While most buyers would like to travel to see a home in person, it isn’t always possible. Some buyers may not even see the home until after they’ve closed. The good news is that you can successfully buy a home without actually stepping foot inside — it just takes a little courage and know-how. Here’s what you need to consider if you’re thinking about buying a home you have not visited in person.

Be clear about your needs

Some people use the house hunting process to help determine what they’re looking for in a home. When you’re buying sight unseen you don’t really have that luxury. Instead, you need to be very clear about your needs. Make a list of must-haves, and know your deal-breakers. This could include the neighborhood, school district, or the number of bedrooms. Also, be clear about those features it would be nice to have but that you can flexible about. This is a crucial step when you’re buying a house without visiting it.

Make the most of video tours

Technology has come a long way in the last few years, and it can help you feel more comfortable with buying a home sight unseen. Arrange to take a video tour with your agent. They can show you every aspect of the home, let you see things up close, and answer any questions you have along the way. Video tours can give you a better feeling for the layout of a home and alert you to potential problems that aren’t obvious from the listing.

Don’t waive the home inspection

We’re in a seller’s market. Housing inventory is tight, and some buyers are waiving their right to a home inspection in order to make their offer more attractive. But if you’re buying a home sight unseen it’s essential that you get a professional home inspection. Since you won’t be able to see the home with your own eyes, you will need to rely on the help of pros to alert you to any potential problems with the home. You don’t want to be stuck with expensive repairs you weren’t anticipating once you move in. Having Radon Tests done is also necessary in order to determine the radon levels in your future home and ensure that they are properly mitigated. But don’t worry a Residential Radon Mitigation System Installation company will take care of radon gas in your future home. Home inspectors may find an old oil tank in the property and recommend contacting an oil tank removal company to have it removed. It is also advisable to contact a company that offers on site oil reclamation service if the tank still has oil for proper removal and recycling. 

Ask for help

Do you have family or friends in the area? Then don’t be afraid to ask them for help. They can tour the home or be there for the inspection when you can’t be there in person. A trusted friend or family member can give you their honest opinion and make the process feel less scary or risky.

Work with a pro

Finally, the best thing you can do when you’re buying a home sight unseen is to work with a professional real estate agent who is an expert in the local market. They can give you valuable advice and be your eyes for you. They will know exactly what you’re looking for and will go the extra mile to help you find it, even when you can’t be there in person.

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Who doesn’t love to take a cool dip in a backyard pool on a hot day? Selling a home with a pool, especially during the summer, can attract many buyers ready for a break from the heat. Your pool can be the centerpiece of your backyard oasis, provided it’s in working order and visually appealing. On the other hand, a neglected pool can work against your home sale, as some buyers will see it as a liability. If you’re selling a home with a pool, then here’s what you need to know to make the most of this family-favorite feature.

Sell during pool season

The best time to sell a home with a pool is during pool season. In some areas, pool season is year-round making fiberglass pools very popular in homeowners. In others, prime pool season is during the summer months. Knowing when most people would make use of the pool and selling it during that timeframe can help to maximize its appeal to potential buyers. Make sure to contact Soakwell installation Perth professionals for a new water tank at your property.

Keep it pristine

It should go without saying that you need to keep your pool pristine while it’s on the market. Nobody wants to swim in a dirty pool, let alone one with green water. As you’re getting your home ready to sell, pay special attention to the pool and conduct a thorough pool inspection. Make sure all the equipment is working properly and check that the water is balanced. Vacuum the pool and skim the water frequently. Fix cracks in the cement as well as any leaks. And if you’ve recently upgraded any of your pool’s equipment, that can be a great selling feature!

Install safety features

Families with young children will want to know that the pool is safe. In many municipalities, there are strict rules regarding the safety features needed for a backyard pool. This often includes a barrier that separates the house and yard from the pool or a fence that completely encloses the pool. Know what the laws are in your area and make sure your pool follows them all.

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Highlight the pool’s features

Does your pool have some awesome features? Then brag about them! All those little extras can be great selling points for your pool and your home. These could include waterfalls, fountains, slides, built-in hot tubs, cabanas, pool houses, outdoor showers, dining areas, or heaters for which you may need want to read this article about what size water heater do I need. Pools are great places to entertain, and if you’ve got features that would be great for a party, let buyers know.

Stage it like an oasis

Finally, when selling a home with a pool it’s essential that you stage it like a private oasis. Most people aren’t just buying the pool — they’re buying the lifestyle associated with having a pool. This means creating an environment that makes the pool attractive. Upgrade your landscaping or add potted plants around the perimeter. Have comfortable seating available like recliners with outdoor cushions. Does the pool get a good amount of sun? Then add an umbrella for some shade. Keep all your pool maintenance tools and toys stored away during a showing. Ask a pool service to inspect your pool before selling. What’s most important is that potential buyers can envision themselves relaxing and enjoying the pool on the day they take ownership of the house.