REAL ESTATE TIPS AND TRICKS

Last month in my newsletter I requested that you submit some questions for me, about myself or Real Estate tips and tricks – Here were the most commonly asked!

How to write a strong offer?

1. Always have your best foot forward. (especially in this market!) In a competitive market, buyers need to balance their due diligence with submitting a strong offer. We are currently seeing many subject-free offers which is fine for condos and townhomes (if you’ve been supplied the strata minutes in advance) If you are looking for a single family home, I would suggest a home inspection.
2. Have your financing ready in place so that you can make a cash offer – this will also show commitment to the offer process.
3. Be flexible with your completion and possession dates – this may tip the scales in your favour if competing with other buyers.
4. Typically a deposit of 5% of the asking price is part of the offer process but a higher amount (like 10 or 20%) will also show high commitment to the buying process.

How do I get started as a new home buyer?

1. Review the first-time home buyers program.
2. Be pre-approved.
3. Work with a realtor who you can trust – ME!

Cleaning for Showings and/or Home Staging…Any tips? 

1. Make sure your Front Entryway, main living area, kitchen, bathrooms, all hallways are clean and tidy! Change any burnt out lights – such a simple thing to do.
2. Clean and declutter and cobwebs.
3. Make sure the house smells nice too – get out those candles!
4. For sellers, do your own home inspection ahead of the listing. This shows commitment from the seller and one more step that can assure the buyer! If and when the buyer does their inspection, there is no surprises.

Thinking about selling…what can I do to add value to your home to appeal to buyers?

1. New washers/dryers
2. New kitchen appliances
3. Kitchen cabinet upgrade
4. Full bathroom remodel
5. New windows and doors