Monday, June 3, 2013

Don't sell yourself short while overpaying

       Buyers!! Listen up, in low inventory market which is common in many areas of the country right about now, you might be compelled  to write up an offer on a home you otherwise would not. The frustration of months of looking, submitting endless offers, and hurtful rejections, finally take their toll!  A low-inventory market limits your choice, period. To you buyers out there, I tell you to stay strong and consider all that the property and neighborhood have to offer before taking to the pen. After all, you will have to live with your choice.

Here are a few tips to help you out!

      First, consider your agent. Does he/she have knowledge and experience in the neighborhood. This is very helpful. An established agent will have historical information, knowledge of current prices, and more importantly relationships built with other agents in that market! This last one is crucial in a tight market! 
Find out as much as you can about the home, neighborhood, and the neighbors!Ask your agent the normal marketing time in the area. How long is it taking for properties to sell in this particular area. Is it a hot market or slow? 
You need to know this in order to identify any red flags. If the normal marketing time is 35 days and this particular property has been sitting on the market for 60 days, I'd definitely would want to know why it is still available.Questions like, have there been any offers? if they reply no, I would ask the listing agents' opinion as to why there are no offers. If they reply yes, did it go to escrow? If so, why is it back on the market?
If it is a hot market and there are multiple offers, make sure you put your best foot forward! You may not get another chance. In order to do that, you need to discuss terms and price with your agent. How an offer is structured by your agent is very important. There are many points to negotiate and many areas where you can woo the seller. 
Last but not least, be patient! You do not want to find down the line that you paid too much, overlooked property problems, or realize the neighborhood/location is not what you thought. 
Follow these tips along with the guidance of your agent and it will ensure you are happy with the choice you make!
 I hope you find this helpful, happy hunting......




Lets Talk Real Estate!
My name is Jackie and I am a Realtor. Being a native of Los Angeles and having worked in RE all of eight years. I can proudly say I have a few stories, tips, and experiences to share with you! Real estate has many ins and outs. Every situation is different! There is never a dull moment, that is for sure... My goal is to help educate you and have a bit of blogging fun along the way...