Title Insurance is an essential part of virtually every transfer of ownership. Unlike most insurances that protect against risk of future events, Title Insurance exists to eliminate losses due to defects in title which occur as a result of things that happened in the past. Even the most careful title search will not reveal some situations or events that could cast doubt on your title to the property.
Some of these are:
Mistakes in the public record
Fraudulent or forged title instruments
Undisclosed heirs
Adverse possession
Undisclosed prescriptive rights
The title examiner is not liable for such matters.
Title Insurance, generally, will protect the insured party from financial loss or damage for covered risks up to the policy limits. Such expenses typically include attorney’s fees in defense of title and the payment of monetary claims.
Who Does Title Insurance Protect?
Both the lender and the owner have an interest in the owner’s clear title to the property. Since home owner’s Title Insurance is optional in Virginia, separate title insurance policies are available. Generally, if the purchaser is financing any portion of the purchase price, a lender will require that a Lender’s Title Insurance Policy be issued to insure the lender to the maximum amount of loan. Thought this policy protects the lender, it is the owner who will pay the premium at settlement as one of the costs of obtaining the loan.
For the property owner to be protected, the owner must elect a separate Home Owner’s Title Insurance Policy which protects the owner up to the face value of the policy (usually the purchase price). While in Virginia a purchaser is not required to buy an Owner’s Policy, it is highly recommended that the purchaser does so. Both, minor defects and catastrophic title failures are insured against by the single-premium-payment charged at closing. The policy’s protections extend beyond the period of ownership and continue to defend your estate for years to come.
* Natasha Lingle is a licensed Real Estate agent affiliated with KW Realty office based in Vienna VA/Tysons area. Natasha specializes in communities of Northern Virginia located just outside Washington D.C including Mclean VA, Great Falls VA, Arlington VA, Alexandria VA, Vienna VA, Oakton VA, Fairfax VA and Reston VA, Tysons, and Dunn Loring.
Tysons, Virginia, often referred to as Tysons Corner, is undergoing a remarkable transformation, solidifying its position as a vibrant and dynamic urban center. With its strategic location just outside of Washington, D.C., Tysons has long been recognized as a hub for business and commerce. In recent years, however, it has witnessed a surge in development and revitalization efforts, turning it into a thriving community that seamlessly blends commercial, residential, and recreational spaces. In this blog post, we will explore some of the exciting new developments taking place in Tysons, showcasing the progressive spirit and forward-thinking initiatives that are reshaping the landscape.
The Boro: A Modern Mixed-Use Destination
ICON Movie Theater at The Boro
At the heart of Tysons lies The Boro, a transformative mixed-use development that has garnered significant attention. The Boro embraces the concept of live, work, and play, offering a variety of residential options, office spaces, trendy retail outlets, and diverse dining experiences. With its pedestrian-friendly streetscapes, green spaces, and thoughtfully designed architecture, The Boro aims to create a vibrant urban environment that fosters community engagement and connection.
Capital One Center: A Hub of Innovation
Capital One Building HQs at Tysons, VA
The Capital One Center is another exciting development that aims to redefine Tysons as a hub of innovation and creativity. This 24/7 mixed-use campus is designed to cultivate collaboration and provide a platform for tech companies, startups, and entrepreneurs. The campus will feature state-of-the-art office spaces, world-class amenities, and a diverse range of dining and entertainment options. Additionally, the Capital One Center will prioritize sustainability, incorporating green spaces, energy-efficient buildings, and sustainable transportation options.
Tysons Central: A Modern Transit-Oriented District
Recognizing the importance of efficient transportation infrastructure, Tysons is committed to developing a comprehensive transit-oriented district. Tysons Central, situated around the Greensboro Metro Station, is a prime example of this initiative. The development plans include walkable streets, bike lanes, and enhanced public transportation options, making it easier for residents, workers, and visitors to navigate the area conveniently. Tysons Central will also feature mixed-use buildings, retail spaces, and open plazas, creating a vibrant and bustling district.
The Plaza at Tysons Corner Center: A Dynamic Outdoor Destination
The Plaza at Tysons Corner Shopping Center
The Plaza at Tysons Corner Center is an innovative outdoor space that combines retail, entertainment, and community events. This open-air destination provides a unique setting for concerts, art installations, and cultural festivals, fostering a sense of community and enhancing the overall experience for visitors. With its inviting atmosphere and diverse programming, The Plaza contributes to Tysons’ transformation into a lively and inclusive urban center.
The View: A Luxurious Residential Development
The View in Tysons Virginia
Adding to the allure of Tysons is “The View” – a luxurious residential development that sets new standards for contemporary urban living. Located in the heart of Tysons, The View offers stunning panoramic views of the city skyline and provides residents with a host of amenities and services. With its sleek design and upscale finishes, this development aims to attract discerning individuals who seek both comfort and sophistication. The View represents Tysons’ commitment to providing diverse housing options that cater to the needs of its growing population.
Scott’s Run: A Premier Live-Work-Play Community
Scotts Run development in Tysons Virginia
Adding to the landscape of Tysons is the Scott’s Run development, an ambitious project that aims to create a premier live-work-play community. Developed by Cityline Partners, LLC, Scotts Run is a dynamic project featuring a combination of offices, apartments, hotels, retail stores, and restaurants. Divided into two distinct sections, Scotts Run South and Scotts Run North, the development spans both sides of Dolley Madison Boulevard, with easy access to major interchanges and the Washington Metro McLean station.
Heming: A Modern Urban Neighborhood
Heming in Tysons Virginia
One notable addition to Scotts Run is Heming, a luxury development set to elevate the standard of upscale living. Heming offers refined residences with exquisite finishes and breathtaking views, providing residents with the pinnacle of contemporary luxury. With an expected delivery in the second quarter of 2023, Heming has recently reached its ‘topping out’ milestone, signaling the completion of its impressive 28-story structure. Alongside Heming, Scotts Run will feature an array of amenities, including sprawling parks, scenic stream valleys, and vibrant public spaces, fostering a sense of community and connection. Scotts Run, with its visionary design and prime location, represents a remarkable opportunity for individuals and businesses seeking an unparalleled urban lifestyle in the heart of Tysons.
The Monarch: Luxury Residences Redefined
Monarch Condos in Tysons Virginia
Introducing The Monarch, a sophisticated residential development that epitomizes luxury living in Tysons. With its sleek architecture, elegant interiors, and upscale amenities, The Monarch offers residents an unparalleled living experience. The spacious and meticulously designed residences at The Monarch provide breathtaking living spaces. Each unit is thoughtfully crafted to offer a blend of style, comfort, and functionality. The interiors feature high-end finishes, modern fixtures, and premium materials, creating an atmosphere of sophistication. The Monarch goes beyond just the living spaces. Residents have access to a wide range of upscale amenities that enhance their lifestyle. These may include a state-of-the-art fitness center, a luxurious spa, a rooftop swimming pool with panoramic views, beautifully landscaped outdoor areas, and private lounges for relaxation or socializing. Additionally, The Monarch may offer a variety of services to cater to residents’ needs, such as 24/7 concierge services, valet parking, and on-site maintenance. The building may also have advanced security systems to ensure residents’ safety and privacy.
Mather: Award-Winning Senior Living Residences
The Mather Condos in Tysons Virginia
Introducing Mather: Award-Winning Senior Living Residences, a remarkable community that redefines the concept of upscale retirement living. Nestled in the heart of Tysons, Virginia, Mather’s newest development promises an extraordinary lifestyle for its residents. From meticulously designed homes to thoughtfully curated community spaces, every aspect of Mather’s residences exudes elegance and sophistication. But it’s not just about the aesthetics; Mather goes above and beyond to provide an exceptional living experience. Residents can indulge in a wealth of amenities, partake in engaging programs, and savor unique experiences that foster personal growth and connection. With a focus on promoting a fulfilling and satisfying lifestyle, Mather truly sets the standard for senior living communities. Discover the epitome of luxury and well-being at Mather in Tysons, where every day is an opportunity for enjoyment, enrichment, and lifelong memories
Conclusion: Tysons, Virginia is undergoing an exciting transformation, driven by ambitious development projects that aim to enhance the quality of life for residents and create a thriving economic and cultural center. The Boro, Capital One Center, Tysons Central, and The Plaza at Tysons Corner Center are just a few examples of the progressive developments shaping Tysons’ landscape. With its strategic location, commitment to sustainability, and focus on creating vibrant community spaces, Tysons is poised to become a model for successful urban revitalization. As the transformation continues, Tysons is destined to attract businesses, residents, and visitors who seek a dynamic and forward-thinking environment.
How to Sell Your House Fast and “Pain-Free”: Selling Your Home in Vienna VA, Alexandria VA, McLean VA, Fairfax, Burke, Falls Church & around Northern Virginia for Cash and in “As-Is” Condition
• We buy homes in all conditions
• We don’t charge Realtor Fees
• And Settle with Cash Offers
Quick Overview of Northern Virginia Real Estate Market
If you need to sell your house fast in Vienna VA, McLean VA or other communities of Northern Virginia, please, before making a final decision, take a look at this article to learn about the benefits of selling your home directly to builder or property investor for cash and in “As-Is” condition.
You may have noticed that Northern Virginia real estate market is bubbling over with options for new construction homes. Contemporary home buyers with their criteria for newer homes with open floor plans, high ceilings, walking closets and luxurious bathrooms are driving real estate market away from older properties and towards new homes with most up to date amenities.
As a result, many local builders and property investors in Northern Virginia are looking to buy properties in “as-is” condition, so they can build new homes and accommodate the needs of the modern families.
If you are owning an older home, including condo, townhouse or single family home, in VIENNA, MCLEAN, FAIRFAX, GREAT FALLS, ALEXANDRIA, OAKTON, BURKE, ANNANDALE or FALLS CHURCH and thinking about selling, you can avoid the hassle of a traditional sale and DO NOT have to pay AGENT FEES for selling you home.
“The best part? The builders or property investors will pay you CASH and will accommodate your ideal closing date.”
Selling Your House to a Builder or Investor for Cash vs Traditional Sale. What are the major differences?
In a current Northern Virginia real estate market in such towns as Vienna VA, McLean VA, Great Falls VA, Fairfax VA, and Falls Church VA, many sellers have two options:
❶ Sell your home fast to a home builder or property investor in “As-Is” condition.
❷ Or to go through a traditional sale by putting your house on the market with the Realtor® and selling it through MLS system.
FIRST OPTION:Selling your home in “as-is” condition is straightforward and will not require the sellers to do any work on the house or schedule showings and Open Houses.
The builder or investor will buy your home in “as-is” condition through a direct sale and will invest time and money to build a new home or renovate the property and sell it later.
This option is ideal for the home sellers who don’t want to spend money and time on all needed pre-sale preparations, such as staging, repairs and updates, and it becomes an optimal choice to the sellers who are looking for a quick and easy house sale and want to avoid paying real estate agent fees.
The builder or property investor will make an offer, and if you are satisfied with the price and the closing date, the contract is signed.
You’ll be paid cash for your house in as soon as two (2) weeks – the closing time is usually flexible, and the builder can accommodate your ideal move out date or offer a rent-back.
SECOND OPTION: Will involve a house makeover that might include upgrading of the bathrooms and the kitchen, repainting, and staging. It is very important to know what appeals to today’s home buyers and consider those trends when you are remodeling in order to get most return on your investment or ROI.
The property should be available for the daily showings from 9:00 am until 8:00 pm until the house goes under contract, and also, the Open Houses have to be held every Sunday.
Traditional Sale usually costs sellers between 5%-6% in agent fees – up to $36,000 for $600,000 home.
Benefits to the Sellers who Sell Directly to the Investors and Builders:
CASH OFFER
NO MIDDLE MAN (the deal will be done directly between you and a builder/investor)
NO REALTOR FEES
FREE HOME EVALUATION
NO REPAIRS
QUICK CLOSE
YOU SELL THE HOUSE IN AS-IS CONDITION
NO APPRAISAL
NO LENDING RESTRICTIONS
Selling Your House Fast for Cash in “As-Is” Condition to an Investor: How Will You Avoid Agent Fees?
When you decide to sell your house fast in “as-is” condition with us, there are will be no realtor fees involved!
How does it work?
Because of my professional arrangements with the local builders and investors, we’ve agreed that it would be most beneficial to the sellers and future home buyers to eliminate traditional 6% real estate agent’s fees.
“For example: if you sell your home to us for $600,000, you will save up to$36,000.”
The builder or investor will purchase your property and convert it into a home that satisfies the needs of the potential home buyers.
My role as a real estate agent is to help you to get in touch with reputable local builders and property investors and take the property through a vetting process – my services to you are FREE of charge.
Here’s How to Get Started:
STEP 1: Please Call/Text us at (571) 455-0178 or submit your information HERE
We’ll discuss the condition and the features of your home and schedule a walk-through.
STEP 2: Meet with us at your home
For the most accurate evaluation, a quick walk-through is ideal. We will evaluate a condition of your home, and you will have an opportunity to meet with us in person and ask questions. This evaluation is FREE of charge, and there will be no pressure and no strings attached.
STEP 3: Choose your closing date and settle
If the numbers work, and you are satisfied with our offer, the contract is signed. All you’ll have to do is to come to the Settlement. We will close on a date that is most convenient to you. Option for rent back is available.
In Conclusion:
If you need to sell your home fast, before committing to the extensive renovations and making a final decision on a type of sale, please meet with me for a consultation.
Property evaluation consultation is FREE. It will allow me to identify the type of sale that your property fits the most and will enable you to ask questions.
Examples of Our Past Projects:
1833 CLIFDALE CT, VIENNA VA 22181
1833 Clifdale Ct, Vienna, VA
1833 Clifdale Ct, Vienna VA 22182. This house was purchased directly from the Seller through cash transaction. Flexible closing date was very important to the home owner and was met by the investor/buyer.
7782 TANGIER DR, SPRINGFIELD, VA 22153
7782 Tangier Dr, Springfield, VA
7782 Tangier Dr, Springfield, VA 22153. This home was purchased off market for cash. The sellers needed to have three months of free Rent-Back and the investor was able to accommodate.
9909 MONTCLAIR CT, VIENNA VA 22181
9909 Montclair Ct, Vienna, VA
9909 Montclair Ct, Vienna VA 22181. This home was purchased directly from the Seller who was moving to Florida. The seller wanted to stay discreet, wanted to avoid paying agent fees and liked the convenience of not doing any home sale preparations.
About Us
We are a locally based company trusted by the home sellers and buyers throughout Northern Virginia.
We help homeowners who want to sell on their own schedule without an agent and with zero hassle. We pride ourselves on our reputation for working one-on-one with each customer to handle their individual situations and needs.
With the ability to directly purchase homes in “As-Is” condition and make cash offers, we can create an extremely fast, and hassle-free transaction.
We are truly committed to helping each individual customer. We focus on fast response, integrity, and over-delivering on customer service. By putting the customer’s needs first, whether selling or buying a home, we can help you realize your real estate goals.
The process of selling to an investor is very easy. My vetted investor will come through your property (he’ll need 15-20 minutes) to evaluate the condition of the property then, within 24-48 hours, he’ll send you an offer. If you agree to the conditions, the documents are signed.
There are no obligations, no endless marketing calls, and no marketing emails.
Contact Us:
Two ways to contact us and receive the benefits of this special offer:
Call/ text: (571) 455-0189 or e-mail: homes@natashalingle.com to ask questions, learn about the process of selling your home, and schedule FREE no obligation sellers’ consultation.
Have additional questions? Please contact us directly by calling or texting at (571) 455-0178 or by filling out contact form.
Don’t risk buying a lemon. Make Sure to Conduct a Home Inspection
So, you’ve made an offer with a Home Inspection contingency; it was accepted, and now your next task is to have the home inspected.
Is the home inspection necessary? I always recommend to my buyers to have one. The Home Inspection will not only allow you to make sure that the house you are buying has fewer defects as possible but will also give you an opportunity to renegotiate the price offered for the home, ask the sellers to cover repairs, or even, in some cases, walk away from the deal.
If you are relocating to Virginia from another state, it is important to note that the state of Virginia generally still goes by the old English common-law concept of “caveat emptor” (“let the buyer beware”). That basically means that while sellers can’t lie outright or actively conceal a problem and must honestly answer prospective buyers’ questions when asked, they aren’t obligated to point out the home’s flaws or defects to the buyers. It’s up to the buyers to do their due diligence and hire a certified Home Inspector to conduct a comprehensive Home Inspection. I have a short list of inspectors that I have worked with in the past and will give you my recommendations, but it is always helpful to do your own homework.
How to Choose a Home Inspector
Realtor.comsuggests that you consider the following 5 areas when choosing the right home inspector for you:
Qualifications – find out what’s included in your inspection & if the age or location of your home may warrant specific certifications or specialties.
Sample Reports – ask for a sample inspection report so you can review how thoroughly they will be inspecting your dream home. The more detailed the report, the better in most cases.
References – do your homework – ask for phone numbers and names of past clients that you can call to ask about their experience.
Memberships – Not all inspectors belong to a national or state association of home inspectors, and membership in one of these groups should not be the only way to evaluate your choice. Membership in one of these organizations often means that there is continued training and education provided.
Errors & Omission Insurance – Find out what the liability of the inspector or inspection company is once the inspection is over. The inspector is only human after all, and it is possible that they might miss something they should have seen.
Important information for home buyers in Virginia: Check license status of your Home Inspector – Effective July 1st, 2017, all home inspectors in Virginia must be licensed.
It is always best to be present during a home inspection and tag along, that way the inspector can point out anything that should be addressed or fixed.
Be prepared to spend up to three (3) hours in the house. Don’t be surprised to see your inspector climbing on the roof, crawling around in the attic, and on the floors. Remember, you hire a home inspector and pay him a fee, and he works for you.
The job of the inspector is to protect your investment and find any issues with the home, including but not limited to: the roof, plumbing, electrical components, appliances, heating & air conditioning systems, ventilation, windows, the fireplace & chimney, the foundation and so much more!
Important to note that in Northern Virginia around 56% of the tested homes contained Radon levels higher than recommended by EPA standards. Read a full article about Radon gas, Radon testing and Radon sales contract contingency here: “Is Your Northern Virginia Home Radon Free?”
The Most Expensive Problems Discovered by Home Inspection Involve:
• Foundation
• Roof
• Heating/Cooling Systems
• Pests/Termites
• Mold
• Electrical Wiring
• Plumbing
The home inspection report will list detailed descriptions of the defects and have photos and will usually be delivered to you by email on the same day. Go through report carefully and decide what items on the report you would like the sellers to repair or replace, or if you would like to have a credit in elu of all or some repairs (all credits have to be issued with the lender’s approval).
Please remember, almost everything can be fixed. I’ll help you negotiate any issues to the get the best contract.
The home inspection report will be be sent to the sellers with the Home Inspection Removal Addendum that lists all needed repairs or a request for a credit.
Bottom Line
They say ‘ignorance is bliss,’ but not when investing your hard-earned money in a home of your own. Work with a professional you can trust to give you the most information possible about your new home, so that you can make the most educated decision about your purchase.
I’m often asked by buyers why there is so much paperwork mandated by the bank during a mortgage application process when buying a home today. It seems that the bank needs to know everything about us and requires three separate sources to validate each and every entry on the application form.
Many buyers find the process of mortgage application intrusive and personal, and are being told by friends and family that the process was a hundred times easier when they bought their home ten to twenty years ago. If you feel frustrated, you are not alone. Two new national surveys found that significant numbers of borrowers believe the current mortgage process is a major hassle. The surveys were contacted for Freeandclear.com – a mortgage website, and Nerdwallet, which offers personal finance and mortgage information. Read more about these surveys here.
There are two very good reasons that the loan process is much more onerous on today’s buyer than perhaps any time in history.
1. The government has set new guidelines that now demand that the banks prove beyond any doubt that you are indeed capable of affording the mortgage.
During the run-up in the housing market, many people ‘qualified’ for mortgages that they could never pay back. This led to millions of families losing their homes. The government wants to make sure this can’t happen again.
2. The banks don’t want to be in the real estate business.
Over the last seven years, banks were forced to take on the responsibility of liquidating millions of foreclosures and also negotiating another million plus short sales. Just like the government, they don’t want more foreclosures. For that reason, they need to double (maybe even triple) check everything on the application.
However, there is some good news in the situation.
The housing crash that mandated that banks be extremely strict on paperwork requirements also allows you to get a mortgage interest rate as low as 3.43%, the latest reported rate from Freddie Mac.
The friends and family who bought homes ten or twenty years ago experienced a simpler mortgage application process but also paid a higher interest rate (the average 30 year fixed rate mortgage was 8.12% in the 1990’s and 6.29% in the 2000’s). If you went to the bank and offered to pay 7% instead of less than 4%, they would probably bend over backwards to make the process much easier.
Bottom Line
Instead of concentrating on the additional paperwork required, let’s be thankful that we are able to buy a home at historically low rates. If you are ready to make a move, feel free to contact me to schedule free no obligation buyer consultation.
To learn more about home buying process, please visit my Real Estate blog page – “BUYING A HOME”.
If you are relocating to Northern Virginia and must make an offer on a home sight unseen, my video tours will make it easy for you to view and buy a homes from far away.
With my special service of Live Streaming video home property tours, you’ll be able to tour homes in real time through the use of FaceTime, Skype, Facebook Messanger or Watsapp. It doesn’t matter if you are out of town, out of the country, or just too busy to view potential homes and planing to buy a home sight unseen, you will benefit from my innovative service that uses advanced technology to help you find and buy your dream home. Natasha Lingle realtor in vienna, va
How Does Buying a Home Sight Unseen Process Work?
Virtual video tours are essential part of sight unseen purchase process. The tours will give you an opportunity to ask questions in real time about things you cannot discern from the photos – was that floor laminate or wood? How big was the closet? The property photos can be helpful, however; you are only able to view what the homeowner wants you to see. With my services, you will have a live tour of a property in real time and see flaws that may not be shown in listing photos or selling agents’ video tours.
Benefits of Live Streaming Video Tours for Sight Unseen Home
Focus on the features that are most important to you.
Have the opportunity to ask questions in real time and get immediate answers.
See the home when it is most convenient for you.
In low inventory competitive markets, you will be able to place an offer immediately.
View a numerous homes in a short time frame and save time, energy, and money.
Choose the streaming method you prefer: WhatsApp, Skype, or Facetime, etc
Visit the neighborhood, the local parks and amenities, see street traffic, etc.
Record the video to review, compare to other properties, or share with others.
View off-market properties or those that are coming soon to get ahead of other buyers.
Technology for Protection and Advantage
When you work with me, my technologically advanced methods will ensure that you are on a level playing field with local buyers and have every opportunity, advantage, and protection as they do.
Home Sight Unseen – Not Just for Relocating Home Buyers
I provide the benefit of a live streaming video tour to any of my clients who may be too busy or unable to attend an open house or tour the property themselves.
“What do I do when I get an offer?” That’s a common question from my sellers looking to negotiate the sale of their homes. If the offer is at or above your asking price, the answer may be easy. But remember, money is not only one consideration. It’s possible that you may prefer a lower offer with better financing, or a stronger buyer, or a more convenient settlement date. When all factors are favorable and the price is right, set the contract and reel your buyer quickly.
Negotiation is an art where you might give and take over price, terms, special conditions, contingencies, or closing costs. Here are some tips to help you throughout the process:
Aim for a sale
Remember, while your aim is to get as much as you can for your home, the buyer’s aim is to find your lowest acceptable price. In the end, however, you’re both angling for the same catch: a sale on the best possible terms for both of you.
Evaluate the buyer
By requesting a pre-approval letter, find out whether the buyer can afford to purchase your home. You will gain peace of mind knowing your buyer is qualified to pay the price you agree upon.
Stay cool
Keep communications on an agreeable level. At all stages of negotiation, be as flexible as possible. Don’t lose your cool – even if your buyer gets tense – or you might lose your sale.
Ask questions
When offers come in, they may contain complicated terminology, sometimes even two or three addenda. They should be carefully considered in person either at my real estate office or in the quiet of your home. Unless you are out of town, avoid discussing contracts on the phone.
Consider all offers
Remember, you have three basic choices:
You can accept the offer
Reject it
Or make a counteroffer with an alternative that suits you
Consider all written offers signed by the potential buyer, but never sign more that one – you might end up paying two commissions or in court with an irate loser. Give consideration to every offer, even if it’s lower than your asking price. Outright rejection is seldom wise, unless, the offer is so ridiculous, you know the buyer is simply “fishing”. With my counsel, you might make a counteroffer closer to your asking price. That will seem fair to the buyers and will let them know, while you are not inflexible, neither are you so anxious to sell, you’ll take anything.
Respond quickly
When buyers make offers, they are in the mood to buy. But moods change. Be sure to respond immediately, even with the counter. Buyers are known to get “buyers’ remorse” in the middle of the night. Don’t delay responding if you really want that sale now. Keep mum, of course, about the minimum price you’d accept, but keep the dialog going. It’s not unusual to exchange two or three counteroffers. The goal is to find a meeting of the minds.
Rely on your agent
Rely on me to keep negotiations moving forward. All real estate agents are required by law to bring you any offer – no matter how low. Knowing what you want from the sale, I’m in a unique position to help negotiations along. By relaying your counteroffers, I can depersonalize the delicate money discussions and keep negotiations flowing toward eventual agreement. After all, as your representative, I want to see you get the highest price the buyer is willing to pay.
Be patient
Exercise confidence and patients as the buyer weights the counteroffers. Be forthcoming with all information requested and call attention to all areas of agreement. Be positive. When disagreements occur, iron out all the small negotiation areas before getting down to any real stumbling block later when most items are agreed upon.
Consider “sweeteners”
As the bidding gets close to your acceptable price, you might offer some extras – to make a higher price acceptable to the buyer: the inclusion in the sale of draperies, lawn furniture, riding mower, the barbecue grill – whatever you don’t mind giving up.
Take care with contingencies.
In drawing up your contract, consider requests for contingencies carefully. Contingencies – stipulations such as obtaining financing or home inspection – are typically used to smooth acceptance of a contract without delaying the buying decision. Each contingency must me satisfied before the sale is final and should include a time limit for work to be completed.
When you’ve landed the buyer, your signed acceptance of a written offer becomes your sales contract. Except for removing a few contingencies, this document is the binding basis for the sale.
When you ready to put your home on the market, contact me, and I will help you net the best offer.
And please don’t forget to download my Seller’s Guide!
