"I SELL AZ SUNSHINE"
LINDA SHANK AND COMPANY REALTORS
HOME BUYER HOME SELLER TIPS


HOME INSPECTIONS ARE A MUST!!  DEMAND ONE


As a buyer or seller you have the right to know what you are buying or selling...especially in today's foreclosure market where homes are being purchased in AS IS condition with no guarantees or warranties.  A professional home inspection is something you MUST do regardless whether or not it is a new or pre-owned home.  This inspection is an opportunity to have an expert look closely at the home you are considering purchasing or selling.  It is best to have all the inspectors findings in a written report and not rely on an oral opinion as they are easily misinterpreted.

Make sure your inspector is Stated licensed and a member of ASHI (American Society of Home Inspection).  Accompany the inspector to the inspection if possible and ask questions.  If you can't be present ask a family member or close friend to represent you.

Most real estate contracts provide for an inspection to be done within a certain time period.  This inspection clause is considered a contingency to when purchasing a home.  If you the buyer don't approve the inspection, you don't have to buy.  Many times the seller will make the necessary repairs found in the Inspection Report but sometimes they won't (as in FHA and Bank Owned Foreclosures).  If you do not approve the inspection report and wish to cancel the contract, ALWAYS put your cancellation in writing within the time period specified in the purchase contract.
SELLERS:

1) Why are you selling? If you understand your motives, you will be able to better negotiate and to get what it is that you want---whether it is a quick sale, high price or a "win win".

2)  Locate a professional & straightforward  Real Estate Broker that understands your needs. Your agent should be loyal to you & can help you achieve your goals. In addition, your Realtor should be assertive, honest & ethical to all parties.

3) Stage your home for the buyer.   Emphasize the strengths of your property and fix up it's weaknesses. The buyer should always walk away from your home with a lasting good impression.

4) In today’s market it is imperative that you be prepared to negotiate.  Learn and understand your buyer's situation and their motives to purchase now? For example, in most Senior or  Winter Resort areas the buyer's are often not motivated to purchase a home immediately.  Should you demand a big deposit from them? It’s important that you sale is as secure as possible so that the sale will close escrow.

5) Negotiate for the best price and the best terms based on the current market conditions. Learn how to counter offer to get more from every offer.   The ultimate goal is a “win win” for both parties.

6) Make sure the contract is complete.  Be honest with your disclosures.  You do not want to lose the sale because you home's defects were not disclosed honestly & properly. Request that your buyers get a professional inspection. This will protect both you and the buyer.

7) Have your Realtor explain the Purchase Contract line by line before you sign.  If anything is unclear ask questions....there is no such thing as a dumb question.


BUYERS:


1)  Why are you buying? New Job?  Better school? Vacation home?  How soon to you need to move? Do you have a home to sell first?  If you understand your wants & needs, you will be able to better attain the perfect home.
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2)  Locate a professional & straightforward Real Estate Broker that understands your needs.  Your agent should be loyal to you & can help you achieve your goals.  In addition, your Realtor should be assertive, honest & ethical to all parties.

2) How much can you afford for a home?  Find a lender and get pre-approved. Pre-approval will let you know what loan amount you qualify for, the interest rate, the total monthly payment & how much you will need for a down payment.

3)  Ask yourself where you want to live and what is the best location for you and/or your family. consider:

4) Is the location convenient for all family members?
 
5) How close is the home to schools, doctors, entertainment, hospitals, your work, shopping etc?

6) What are the neighborhood characteristics--traffic, crime statistics, appearance, potential neighbors, environmental issues?
 
7) What is the potential for appreciation?

8) Are the homes in the neighborhood similar and well kept?

9) Have your Realtor explain the Purchase Contract line by line before your sign.  If anything is unclear ask questions....there is no such thing as a dumb question.


LINDA SHANK & COMPANY REALTORS, GOLD CANYON ARIZONA  85118
HOME OFFICE:  480-983-4700   CELL PHONE:  602-999-9452
EMAIL:  lindalshank@msn.com
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