6 Questions To Ask Before You List your Home

If you have been considering selling your home, here are some questions you should ask yourself!

 WHY ARE YOU MOVING?

Be honest with yourself.  Why do you want to move?  Is it the home?  The community?  Relocation?  Downsizing?  Moving out of the starter home?

The answer may be a simple one.  But then again, it might be a bit more complex.  Figuring out the answer to the question of why you are moving can simplify the process and the search for the new home.

Are there any serious problems with the house?

Now that you know why you are moving, honestly ask yourself are there any serious problems with your current house.  Make a list of these items to determine whether you will simply disclose issues or repair prior to selling the home.  Major issues can impact the overall price of the home.  Having this list prepared to discuss with the Realtor that is going to assist you is paramount.

What is serious?  Roof - is your roof over 10 years old?  This often times is considered a major issue in Florida with home owner insure required with mortgages.  Plumbing issues - a leak can create an environment for mold.  Almost every potential buyer with have the home inspected with at a minimum 4 point inspection.  These are the major aspects of your home including your roof, electrically systems, HVAC systems and plumbing systems. 

What do I love about the home?

Look at the home from a different perspective.  When you originally purchased the home, you were excited and in "love" more than likely.  Think back to that time.  What home features would a buyer be interested in?  What about the community that you are in?  The city you are in?

Should you use a real estate agent?

Are homes in your neighborhood selling quickly?  Are they selling at the asking price?  How many days are they staying on the market before closing?  Are sellers having to give concessions in order to sell?  Are the homes appraising?  Do you have a title company you are working with?

If you can not answer the above questions, you may want to speak with a real estate agent.  Another consideration for working with a real estate agent beyond simply driving buyers to your home through marketing and promoting, is having an agent who can assist you in all aspects of your real estate journey.  Do you need to have a simultaneous closing as you move into your new home as an example.  It is important to have a conversation to discuss all aspects from pricing strategy through closing strategy.