Surveys show that many homeowners and homebuyers are not aware of the true value a REALTOR® provides during the course of a real estate transaction. At the same time, regrettably, REALTORS® have generally assumed that the expertise, professional knowledge and just plain hard work that go into bringing about a successful transaction were understood and appreciated. Many of the most important services and steps are performed behind the scenes by either the REALTOR® or the brokerage staff and … [Read more...]
Feb
09
2009
Changes to the $250,000/$500,000 Exclusion For 2nd Home Sellers
Source: Sarasota Realtor Magazine February 2009 Author: Marc Mansfield - Government Affairs Director This is a very informative article regarding the changes in tax implications for a second home purchase. In 2009, there are some new rules placed into effect as a result of the 2008 Housing and Economic Recovery Act when a second home is converted to a principle residence. Here are some explanations and examples of how this new rule impacts second home sellers. Governmental Affairs When a … [Read more...]
Dec
09
2008
20 Low Cost Ways To Spruce Up Your Home
Have you ever heard the saying "It's all in the details"? Living in your home, and selling your home are two different things. Over time of living in our own house, we often miss little things that need attention that may really stand out to a buyer who is scrutinizing the house. Here are a list of several tips we advise our sellers to do prior to listing a home. 1. Trim bushes so they don’t block windows and cut down on light. 2. Buy a new doormat. 3. Put a pot of bright … [Read more...]
Dec
09
2008
Important Questions When Interviewing a Realtor
Choosing the right agent to sell your Sarasota home is one of the most important decisions you can make. Many times, it is tempting to hire someone familiar to you, such as a friend or co-worker who happens to have a real estate license. This may feel more comfortable to you at first, however, it could cost you thousands and thousands of dollars if that agent is not a top-performing full time professional agent. Also, if something does go wrong in the transaction, it is best to be … [Read more...]
Nov
20
2008
Getting Top Dollar For Your Home
Hi everyone, I often get asked what can be done for my sellers to get the absolute highest sales price possible. Only natural, right! After all, who wants to sell for less than the potential? My answer is simple. The best chance for selling your property is within the first seven weeks. Studies show that the longer a property stays on the market, the less the seller will net. Below are 5 mainfactors to accomplishing this goal. PRICING FACTOR It is very important to price your property at … [Read more...]
Nov
20
2008
Tips To Hiring a Subcontractor
As Realtors, we are often faced with recommending repairs to be made by the seller prior to listing a property with the goal of obtaining the highest possible sales price. This is not mandatory, but sellers ask what can be done to reach their goals, and we often do see some areas that need a little attention to satisfy the scrutinizing buyers. In order to do so, many are faced with hiring a handyman or contractor, so I thought this may be useful for our visitors. 1. Get at least three written … [Read more...]
My Marketing Plan
Here are many different marketing strategies that we use to get your home sold! 1) Prepare CMA to establish Market Value 2) Place post sign on property (when possible) 3) Take Photos for MLS and website marketing 4) Place in MLS with maximum amount of pictures 5) Create full Color Property Brochure 6) Create Virtual Tours for ALL listings! (80% of Buyers Search Online!) 7) In addition to WeSellSarasota.com, your home will be on numerous websites! 8. E-mail Electronic Flyer with pictures … [Read more...]
Nov
19
2008
Forms Sellers Will Need To Sell Their Home
Back many many years ago, it was common place to sell a home with a single piece of paper, or it could even be done on the back of a napkin! I guess in theory, it still could, but if someone were to do that, they will be open to lawsuits galore. Selling a home is not that simple any more. There are many forms and contract addendums that are needed to fully protect a buyer or seller, and it is our job as agents to fully protect our client as best as we can. There are many forms I use to do … [Read more...]
Nov
19
2008
9 Seller Mistakes To Avoid
MISTAKE #1. Using A Real Estate Agent Instead of A Realtor! When you're looking for help buying or selling property, it's important to remember that the terms "real estate agent" and "Realtor" are not synonymous. Realtors can provide an extra level of service and to be a Realtor you must be a member of the National Association of Realtors (NAR). The equivalent organization in Canada is the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA). Both are non-profit trade organizations that promote real estate … [Read more...]
Nov
19
2008
Creating a Successful Open House For Your Sarasota Home
Open houses are a good way to get some people in your home, create a buzz for your new listing, and hopefully get a quick sale. Creating a successful open house requires a little preparation. 1. Put fresh or silk flowers in principal rooms for a touch of color. 2. Add a new shower curtain, fresh towels, and new guest soaps to every bath. 3. Set out potpourri or fresh baked goods for a homey smell. 4. Set the table with pretty dishes and candles. 5. Buy a fresh doormat with a clever … [Read more...]
