Buying or selling a home is often challenging, but you can make it a smooth and stress-free process with these tips in mind.
When buying a home
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Work with a qualified agent
Working with a knowledgeable agent is a must, especially if you are buying for the first time. But even if you have experience in buying a home, it still helps to work with one, since no two transactions are the same.
Only a local expert can put you up to speed on the latest developments in Greater Cleveland’s housing market. Call Cici Riley at 216-831-9310 or send an email to CiciRiley(at)HowardHanna(dotted)com for professional guidance.
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Have a list of must-haves
Have a clear idea of what you want in a home to make the search process easier. Come up with a list of features that the property must have in order for you to even consider buying it. Be specific about the size, number of bedrooms, parking space, and so on. Your Realtor will then look for listings that match your criteria.
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Know the search process
Homes that are available for sale are often listed on real estate websites. However, luxury homeowners don’t always list their properties publicly in order to protect their privacy. A well-connected agent can give you access to exclusive listings, as well as schedule a private home viewing on your behalf.
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Do research on the neighborhood
When it comes to buying real estate, you’re not just moving into a new home. You’re also moving into a new neighborhood. Visit the area at different times of the day and week to see how much traffic and human activity you’ll have to deal with.
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Get an inspection
There’s no substitute for a thorough inspection, so get a certified inspector to do it. This helps you make sure that you are truly getting what you’re paying for. Finding out about any structural issues will help you make informed decisions.
When selling a home
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Hire a good listing agent
A dependable listing agent will market your home effectively without compromising your privacy. Leave it to them to find qualified buyers for your home. They can play up the strengths of your home, drawing attention to its winning qualities and what exactly makes it unique.
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Price your home correctly
Pricing a home is both an art and a science. Price it too low, and you’ll miss out on making a profit. Price it too high and you might not get any good offers. It’s affected by a number of factors, such as market conditions, the home’s value, and the neighborhood it’s in. Only an experienced Realtor can help you get it right.
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Make repairs
Take care of urgent repairs and make a few cosmetic improvements to make the home more appealing to buyers. Top-tier buyers tend to be highly discerning, and even the slightest imperfection can put them off a purchase.
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Stage your home
Staging a luxury home is different from staging a mid-range one in the sense that everything on display should be of the highest quality. Many professional staging companies will suggest teaming up with a local gallery so that you can have unique artworks on display, for example.
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Vet offers
Keep in mind that the highest offer isn’t necessarily the best one. Luxury sellers also pay attention to how quickly a buyer can close the sale, or if they are willing to write off certain contingencies.
Buying and selling a home doesn’t need to be difficult. Get in touch with Cici Riley for professional guidance today.