Memorial Day weekend has become the unofficial beginning of summer here on the Gulf Coast. It has always been the perfect time for a beach vacation and this year is no different.  The sugar sand is as white as ever…the water is clear… the warm breeze beckons…and summer fun is in the air.

• Get an appraisal:  It eliminates guesswork and gives you a realistic target.
• Pre-inspect before you list:  It shows potential buyers that you care about the home and them by identifying and rectifying potential problems.
• Offer a warranty:  Home warranties cost between $300 and $450…a small investment that gives buyers valuable reassurance.   Many plans offer extra coverage while your home is on the market and this benefits you, the seller, as well.
• Stay price-flexible:  Price will overcome everything.  It is the most important thing.  Consider the long term outcome of your mortgage and utility expenses before rejecting a low offer.  If offers are sparse, a lower offer than what you were hoping for may offset the expenses you could incur long term. Be realistic. 
• Post-move perks:  Since moving is a stressful process, consider an offer to alleviate some of that stress.  Footing the bill for yard maintenance through the summer or providing a few months of free house cleaning can give you an edge in the market.
• Consider an auction:  Auctions are not just for foreclosures.  You will have to pay the auction company for marketing and advertising whether your property sells or not, however if you are in the right market, an auction can offer an effective, quick, and profitable sale.  Auctions are most successful in soft markets where when inventory is low.

In Closing…Tips for a smoother one…

With so many details and emotions involved in a real estate transaction, it is important that customers be informed.  As it becomes time to close on your property, everyone has their hand out waiting for their cut…these are your closing costs.  These fees are varied and can add up quickly.  Make sure you are prepared ahead of time and take steps to prevent surprises by being aware of the following:

Escrow — In the event escrow is required there may be fees associated and should be negotiated in advance. It is not uncommon for the fees to be divided between the buyer and seller.
Credit — You have to pay your lender to verify your loan merit.  It sounds crazy, but it’s true.
Document prep — Again, you might think that the employees of the mortgage and escrow companies would pay their employees to prepare these documents, but no…
 Title insurance — You will not be loaned money, unless the lender can guarantee its share in the property.  It is unlikely, but if there is a problem with your property’s title’s history, title insurance covers you.
Miscellaneous —  Escrow companies employ couriers to run paperwork; lenders wire money to the sellers and also acquire underwriting fees.  Be prepared for “miscellaneous fees” that add up to a few hundred dollars.
The closing table is the place to sign papers, trade keys, and toast your new home.  Being aware of, and prepared for, the costs associated with closing, and having details worked out ahead of time, will ensure a smooth ending to your real estate transaction.

New Horizons Realty : 22645 Canal Road, Orange Beach AL 36561