Contact your CPA: I recommend consulting with your CPA. They can provide guidance on possible capital gain taxes or other tax implications associated with selling your property.
Utilities: Upon signing the listing agreement with your agent, it's essential to keep all utilities connected until the day of closing. Buyers typically conduct a final walkthrough on the closing day to confirm the property's condition and any repairs. Ensure they have access to all utilities during this time. Plan to have utilities disconnected the day after closing.
Exclusions: Review the listing agreement carefully to determine which items must remain and which you can take with you. Create a detailed inventory of items you plan to remove and those you intend to leave behind, such as TV mounts, refrigerators, and security systems. Share this list with your MRG agent before your home is listed on the market.
Survey & T-47: If you have a previous survey of your property, locate the original copy to potentially save costs when selling your home. The responsibility for purchasing a new survey is negotiable between you and the buyer. The survey is ordered through the title company and its cost varies based on property size. If using an existing survey, include a T-47 affidavit signed by all sellers and notarized. Should the survey not meet the title company's or lender's standards, a new survey may be required. Ensure you have this prepared before listing your property to streamline the transaction process.
Seller's Disclosure Notice: Sellers are legally obligated to complete the Seller's Disclosure Notice (SDN). All information must be accurately filled out to the best of your knowledge and provided to the buyer within days of executing the contract. This document details the appliances, systems, current defects, past insurance claims, previous repairs, and utility providers for the property. Please complete the SDN promptly and submit it to your agent.
Active Warranties: Please provide any active warranties, whether original to the home or from recent repairs like the roof or foundation, to your Sold by Ivis agent.
CMA (Comparative Market Analysis): Your agent provides the CMA to help you gauge a realistic price range for your property. It offers an estimated range, not a precise figure. Pricing too high can prolong your property's time on the market, potentially costing you more in the long run. Consult a professional before making upgrades to save money, as you may not recoup the full amount spent. Once you've settled on a price, let's focus on staging your home for photos and showings.
Cleaning & Decluttering: Let's make sure that the home has a clean and clear path inside and outside. Curb appeal is very important, so make sure to maintain the grass, trees and bushes; this will make the home more presentable. Do not leave any dirty dishes in the sink, clean out any pet litters, and ensure the home is constantly smelling good. This is something that is very important and oftentimes overlooked. Do not use any fancy smells, just keep it simple.
Professional Pictures: First impressions are everything. That's why professional photography is not just an option but a necessity when listing a home. High-quality images captured by experienced photographers showcase a property in its best light, literally and figuratively. In today's digital age, where the majority of home buyers begin their search online, eye-catching photos are the gateway to generating interest and inquiries. They convey professionalism and attention to detail, instilling confidence in prospective buyers and ultimately maximizing the home's market potential.
Showings: The more showings you authorize, the greater the chance of attracting potential buyers to your door. Please refrain from locking the deadbolt if you plan to allow showings, as this will prevent agents from accessing the property. For your safety, ensure that no unauthorized individuals tour the home without a scheduled appointment; agents will be granted access once the appointment is confirmed.
Offers: We wish you receive numerous outstanding offers. While respecting the buyer's privacy, we will assist you in verifying financing to the best of our capability. Please note, we are unable to verify bank accounts. On average, closing the deal can take 30-45 days, and 1-3 weeks for cash offers. Ultimately, the decision on the best offer for you rests with you.
iPhone Tip: To submit documents in PDF format, use your iPhone's Notes app. Create a new note, open the camera, select "Scan Document," capture the image, and save it. Open the scanned document, tap to select it, then share via email with your MRG agent.