Myth
Discount brokers can do an adequate job selling real estate.
Truth
Promotional costs such as photos, brochures, advertisement; MLS inserting fees, printing, direct mail, directional signs, etc are paid by agents personally. Will the discount broker offer a complete marketing campaign? Does the discount broker have a staff to personally attend to your specific needs? Does he or she have a compelling marketing program or are they just using the discount commission to win your business? If they are selling their services for a discount, wouldn’t they sale your house for a discount?
Myth
You should select the Realtor who says they can get you the highest price.
Truth
This is the oldest scam in real estate: tell the seller what they want to hear and compliment the home to get the listing, then ask for a price reduction 30 days later. Instead, insist on a written, well-researched computerized market analysis like I will provide you to determine the realistic amount your home will bear in today’s market and prices accordingly. Select the Realtor based on their marketing plan, and then decide on price. Never select an agent based on the price they recommend.
Myth
Empty homes don’t show as nicely as furnished homes.
Truth
The important consideration is whether or not a home is cleaned, properly staged, in good repair and available to show. If you must move to your new home before your old home has sold, simply measure to ensure that it shows well empty, repair/replace worn carpets, refinish hardwood, wash windows and clean walls. In fact, your home will probably appear larger without all of your furnishing. Buyers that need quick occupancy will be thrilled that they can move in sooner.
Myth
Property Condition is not important to buyers.
Truth
WRONG! A property in superior condition will sell faster and for more money than a home in average condition with a lower asking price. Many sellers recognize this and repaint or re-carpet their homes in preparation for selling. These sellers know that home buyers purchase value and will perceive a clean, fresh home as more appealing that an average, lived-in, forgive-the-mess home.
Myth
Pricing Your Home is a mysterious process.
Truth
Your home will sell for whatever the market will bear. To determine the range of value, your simply need to see what similar homes are selling for in today’s market. And because every home is unique, you home will probably sell higher or lower in the range depending on its condition and location. With the correct amount of attention and research we can decide on a proper price. It is not an easy process, but it’s not mysterious either.
