The Real Estate Avenue: To sell or not to sell that is the question?!

Over and over for the past few months I have heard many conversations by sellers debating on selling there home. Even though the market has changed for the better many are not sure if they should wait it out for a while longer. The truth is there is no easy answer to this question. The reason for this is everyone's motivation for selling may be different. Some may want to downsize, others may need to relocate to be closer to family, for some it may be a rental property they want to get rid of. The list of reasons can go on and on. A few things you can do to help make the decision for you and your family are below.

* Have a family meeting this will give you insight and valuable input from those it will affect directly.

* Narrow down your reason for selling. This will help you gain clarity on what your goal is. It will also help you think through your decision and stop any impulsive acts that may in the long run not be beneficial.

Have a plan in place. If you were to sell this home where would you move to if it is your primary residence? How long would you need to find another residence. Are you planning on renting or buying after the sell?

Repair cost may be a factor. Many seller may choose to sell the home in as-is condition excluding the required lender repairs that may be needed to pass the appraisal. However as you may know the more appealing the home is the more it could sell for. Are you prepared to crack open that piggy bank & put in a little elbow grease to get the wow effect?

Can you afford to move? Although home values have improved has your market area improved enough for you to sell your home? At the end of the day there is always cost with selling a home. Having to clear the existing mortgage on the home is one of the biggest. Contributing toward closing cost for the buyers. Professional fees such as taxes, Agent fees, lawyer fees, transfer fees to name a few.

Start with a cma. In order to know what your home may be able to sell for you must know what your current market is doing. Have an agent familiar with your area and the home values in that area perform a competitive market analysis. By comparing similar homes in the area that have sold within the last 6 months or less you can have an idea of what your home may sell for.

If you have questions or are thinking about selling your home and would like to know your options give me a call. As always I appreciate the time you take out of your day to read my blog. If you find this blog helpful please pass it on.