How Murphy's Law effects Home Sellers
Murphy's Law states that anything that can go wrong will
go wrong. Glitches in any real estate transaction are inevitable.
If you are prepared, you won't be so shocked when they do.
- Understand That Your Home
May Not Be Worth What You Think
The biggest shock most sellers face is what agents and buyers
think their home is worth. Sometimes sellers can be pleasantly
surprised, but the reality is that markets change, and home
values rise and fall. Many subjective factors such as floor
plan, condition, updates and drive-up appeal affect home
values.
The truth is that buyers will determine the worth of your
home, in this Ottawa market, at this particular time, and
that has very little to do with what you need to get out
of the home.
- People Won't Love Your Home Like You Do
You love your home and expect others to appreciate the same
qualities in it that you do, but buyers have their own lifestyles,
preferences, tastes and attitudes. The chances of finding
a buyer who will want your home "as is" are slim
to none.
In fact, buyers will look at your home with an eye to how
they can make it suit
themselves. They may knock out that wall where you have
your prize fish tank, tear down that designer wallpaper
you had imported from England and gut the kitchen where
you spent so many Thanksgivings preparing dinner. All those
changes cost money, so they will value your home less as
they consider remodelling and decorating costs. Remember,
your home is competing against other homes with updates
and features your home may not offer. Your home has to withstand
the glare of scrutiny, so you must make it as competitive
as possible within your means. Put it in good repair, and
make sure it is spotless and clutter-free.
- Sooner Or Later You Will Lose Your Temper
Your relationship with your buyer will be one of love/hate.
The buyer is an adversary because s/he wants to pay the
least for your Ottawa home, while you want to net the most
possible.
The buyer, in order to improve bargaining leverage, may
pick your home apart. Many of the buyer's complaints and
requests for repairs will be legitimate, but some may not.
In fact, some requests can be outrageous. Stay focused on
your goal to sell the home, and keep your cool. Let your
agent tell their agent yes, or no. Remember, your home can't
close until everyone is happy, so be flexible and willing
to compromise.
Don't let your feelings fester. If you are truly uncomfortable
about anything, inform your Realtor immediately.
- Unexpected Showings
Buyers aren't going to operate on your schedule. They may
want to see the home at any time of the day or evening.
Your Realtor will ask you to keep your home in show condition.
Don't worry that the bed wasn't made. Trust that only serious
buyers will be allowed to see your home.
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