28
May
By Lori Blank
Home Seller Tips

Why a Messy Neighbor Can Kill a Sale (And What Sellers Can Legally Do About It)

When you're preparing to sell your home, you likely focus on everything within your property line, cluttering, staging, repainting, and boosting curb appeal. But what if the one thing standing between you and a solid offer is not your house at all? It might be your neighbor.From overgrown yards and peeling paint to broken-down vehicles and loud pets, a messy or unkempt neighboring property can have a major impact on your sale when buyers are forming their first impressions before they even walk in your door. First Impressions Extend Beyond the Property LineReal estate is emotional. Buyers don’t just purchase…
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15
May
By Lori Blank
Home Seller Tips

Understanding the Process of Selling a Home Through a Lease-Option Agreement

What Is a Lease-Option Agreement?A lease-option agreement is a creative strategy that allows homeowners to sell their property by offering a potential buyer the opportunity to lease the home for a specified period, with the option to purchase it at the end of the lease term. This arrangement combines a standard lease agreement with a separate option-to-purchase contract. It’s an ideal solution in slower markets or for sellers looking to attract buyers who may not yet qualify for a traditional mortgage. How the Process WorksIn a lease-option setup, the seller and tenant-buyer agree on two main components: the lease terms…
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18
Mar
By Lori Blank
Home Seller Tips

Is Your Low Interest Rate Holding You Back? You Have Options!

In today’s real estate market, many homeowners find themselves at a crossroads. They locked in an ultra-low mortgage rate years ago, but now their home no longer fits their lifestyle, family size, or future plans. The thought of giving up that great rate can feel daunting—but is staying in a home that no longer serves you really the best option? The truth is, you don’t have to feel stuck. You have choices that can help you move forward while still making smart financial decisions. 1. Buy a Home You Love A low interest rate is great, but it shouldn’t keep…
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24
Jan
By Lori Blank
Home Seller Tips

What to Expect When Preparing for Your First Open House

As a real estate agent, one of the most exciting and important steps in selling a home is preparing for your first open house. This is an excellent opportunity to show off your property to a wide range of potential buyers. While it may feel overwhelming at first, I’m here to guide you through the process to ensure everything goes smoothly and that you maximize your chances of selling. 1. Setting the Stage: Preparing the Home The first and most crucial step is preparing the home for visitors. A clean, clutter-free, and well-maintained home will make a much stronger impression…
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18
Dec
By Lori Blank
Home Seller Tips

Why Checking for Open Permits Is Essential Before Selling Your Home

When preparing your home for sale, there’s a checklist of tasks to tackle like decluttering, staging, and perhaps making minor repairs. One item that often gets overlooked, yet is critically important, is checking for open permits on your property. Ignoring this step could lead to unexpected delays, renegotiations, or even jeopardizing your sale entirely. Here's what you need to know about open permits and why resolving them is vital. What Are Open Permits? An open permit occurs when work done on a property hasn’t been fully approved or closed out by the local permitting authority. This can happen if the…
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03
Dec
By Lori Blank
Home Seller Tips

Tips for Selling Your Home During the Winter Months

Selling a home in winter can be just as successful as selling in any other season, with the right strategy. While colder weather may present unique challenges, there are plenty of opportunities to make your home stand out. If you’re ready to list your home during the winter months, follow these valuable tips to increase your chances of success. 1. Create a Cozy, Inviting Atmosphere Winter is the perfect time to highlight your home’s warmth and comfort. Set the mood with soft blankets, scented candles, and warm lighting. Ensure the heating is on during showings to let potential buyers experience…
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22
Oct
By Lori Blank
Home Seller Tips

Understanding the Costs of Selling Your Home

Selling your home can be an exciting yet daunting process, and one of the most pressing questions you may have is, “What will it cost me?” The total expenses involved in selling a home can fluctuate based on various factors, including the sale price, any concessions you might offer to buyers, and the condition of your property. Understanding these costs upfront can help you plan better and minimize surprises down the road. Key Expenses to Anticipate 1. Closing Costs and Commissions One of the largest expenses you'll encounter is the closing costs, which typically range from 2% to 4% of…
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18
Oct
By Lori Blank
Home Seller Tips

What You Need to Know About IRS Reporting When Selling Your Home

If you’re selling your home, you might be surprised to learn that certain information regarding the sale must be reported to the IRS. This requirement stems from the Tax Reform Act of 1986 and is meant to ensure compliance with tax laws and to assist the IRS with audits. To make the process easier for you, here’s a clear explanation of what to expect when selling your property: Who is Responsible for Reporting the Sale to the IRS?According to IRS guidelines, the seller’s gross proceeds from the sale must be reported on Form 1099S. But don’t worry—you don’t have to…
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30
Jul
By Lori Blank
Home Seller Tips

How to Handle Lowball Offers on Your Home

Selling your home is an exciting journey, but receiving a lowball offer can feel like a setback. While it might be tempting to reject such offers outright, handling them with patience and strategy can often lead to a better outcome. Here’s how to effectively manage lowball offers on your home. 1. Stay Calm and Objective First and foremost, receiving a lowball offer can be disappointing, but it’s important to stay calm and not take it personally. Remember, buyers are often testing the waters to see how much room there is for negotiation. 2. Evaluate the Offer Next, carefully review the…
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12
Dec
By Lori Blank
Home Seller Tips

4 Things You Should Never, Ever Say If You Hope to Sell Your Home

Have you ever had a conversation with a total stranger where you said something that you regret? If you are placing your house or condo on the market, you're eventually going to end up having to chat with potential buyers. Yes, your real estate agent is likely to do most of the talking. However, you will still have to deal with buyers who want to grill you about the home's history, condition, and more. With that in mind, let's have a look at four things you should never say to someone who is interested in buying your home. "We're Not…
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