SHOULD YOU BUY A HOME
Your first step involves deciding how you will approach your home search. Who will you work with throughout this process — and how will you work with them? Ask yourself, "Do I want a professional agent working with me or for me?" There is a difference
As a buyer, you have a choice in representation. Most buyers today choose to have a professional agent represent their interests in a real estate transaction. This is also known as Agency Representation (or fiduciary representation), which simply means that the professional agent you hire is legally bound to represent your interests. This involves the highest standard of care and extreme loyalty to you, the "client." Some agents will work with you as a "customer," which carries a different level of responsibility. Most real estate professionals require a client relationship because it allows them to provide the full range of services that buyers need and deserve. Your professional agent will discuss representation with you and will request your commitment in writing for this level of service.
As a first-time homebuyer, it's important that you find someone you feel completely comfortable with, who you can trust, and who listens to you and respects your views. They have the market knowledge and expertise, but at the end of the day, it's your home and your investment, so you must be able to work well with your agent. Experienced, professional agents understand and excel at this. So don't wait to contact me and call me anytime for professional advice.
SHOULD YOU SELL YOUR HOME
To manage the buying and selling process speak to your agent and start your new home search as soon as your existing home hits the market.
Your professional agent can assist you whether you've already bought your next home or if you're still looking. The use of clauses in the Purchase and Sale agreement such as, "sale of your existing home" or "purchase of a new home" can be added as conditions to agreements to ensure that you are not without a place to live. Using the "sale of your existing home" can affect your negotiating power as it is a difficult decision for many sellers to agree on.
There are many reasons why people choose to sell their homes, but every seller has one thing in common: to sell their home for the highest amount possible, in the shortest amount of time.
When you are ready to sell your home, take inventory of the reasons why you are choosing to sell. These factors will help play into looking for your new home, as well as give ideas for staging and small upgrades.
Everyone wants to take advantage of the housing market when it comes to selling your home. Unless you are buying and selling strategically for investment, the best time to sell is when your existing home does not meet your current or future needs.
A key factor to consider is the economy. The economic health of a country affects many factors related to real estate. Mortgage rates are often influenced by the state of the economy. A higher interest rate may encourage you to stay with your current home as the increase in mortgage payments may change your financial situation. A lower interest rate may mean that you can upgrade to a larger home with a minimal impact to your current mortgage.
Keep in mind that holidays and weather may impact the sale of your home. Winter holidays and the peak summer season keep many potential buyers busy and not looking for homes. Buyers with school-aged children often choose to move during the summer to minimize the challenges with changing schools in the middle of the year.
There are costs involved with selling your home. Some minor repairs and upgrades can make your home more attractive to potential buyers.
Here are some costs involved with selling your home:
- A professional home inspection
- Closing costs (lawyers' fees or unpaid taxes)
- Mortgage discharge fees may be levied by your lending institution
- Sales commissions
- Staging based on recommendations from your agent