SELLER’S GUIDE
Steps to Selling
I work hard for all my clients and guarantee the highest quality service and professionalism. If you don’t know where to start, don’t worry. I’ll help you prepare, price and market your Cleveland Heights-area property to secure the best price and the quickest closing time I can. Contact me today to find out what I can do for you and your home.
FAQ
HOW DO I DETERMINE THE VALUE OF MY HOME?
You must take into account the prevailing state of the real estate market and especially local market conditions. The real estate market continually changes, and market fluctuations affect property values. So it is critical to determine your listing price based on the most recent comparable sales in your neighborhood.
Comparables ("comps") look at number of bedrooms, baths, square footage, neighborhood, etc. However, condition and amenities are important to factor in as well, and there is no easy way to do this. This is where the value of a good real estate professional comes in - agents have seen a lot more homes in person and can more accurately gauge value.
It would be a good idea to get a home valuation, or CMA, also known as Comparable Market Analysis, from one or more agents, which is typically free.
I HEARD SELLERS DON'T HAVE TO PAY BUYER COMMISSIONS ANYMORE, IS THAT RIGHT?
Not exactly, but it is a bit more complicated than just a headline can accommodate. In 2024 there was a settlement reached as part of a class-action suit that changed one major way the industry works. That change was to remove advertised buyer agent commissions from the MLS.
Prior to the settlement, the most common scenario was that a seller's agent suggested offering a buyer's agent commission at a specific amount. It did not require buyers to pay their own agents, and it did not prevent sellers from paying buyer's agents.
Since the settlement, sellers and their agents do not have to advertise a buyer's agent commission. However, buyers can make it a condition of their offer that a seller pay the buyer's agent commission, and this is likely to continue to be the most common scenario. So, in short, it is likely most sellers will be asked to pay the buyer's agent commission, and how much you do or if you do at all is a negotiation.
WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE TO PREPARE MY HOME FOR SALE?
The expression “You never get a second chance to make a first impression” is absolutely true when it comes to selling a home. When selling a home you must be sure that your home presents itself in the best possible light. Making sure clutter is at a minimum, freshly painting rooms, installing new carpeting, or ensuring odors are non-existent are just a handful of things that should be done before listing your home for sale. Consulting with an agent and a stager are both important steps.
WHAT PERCENTAGE OF THE FINAL HOME SALE PRICE DO YOU CHARGE?
The commission I charge to list and advise is typically between 2-3.25%, depending on the price of the home. Though the commission system is going through a period of change, I still suggest offering a buyer's agent commission of a similar amount.
There are discount brokers out there, and they can provide services that may be a good fit for some. I provide white-glove service, I am available to contact at all times, and I am a trained attorney. I think we provide the best service available, not discount service, and that informs our pricing.
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