From Sale To Settlement

When you receive an offer on your home
I will represent you in the presentation of all offers by cooperating agents, which will involve all of the following:

• Explain to you the details of the offer(s) including all terms and conditions.
• Develop questions regarding the buyer's background, plans and financial qualifications.
• Ensure that you understand all of the specific clauses of the offer(s).
• Discuss advantages and disadvantages, if any, of the offer(s).
• Structure a response to the offer(s) which may include a counter offer. We will do this to strengthen your negotiating position and to remove or change any undesirable clauses. Together we will work to negotiate the best possible price and terms for the sale of your property.

When Your Property Is In Escrow
I will work with mortgage lenders, title companies, appraisers, underwriters, inspectors, purchasers and other agents during the time of escrow and up to the actual close of your sale. This includes management of the following:

• Order a preliminary title report once the contract to sell your property is binding and the escrow has been opened by the buyer.
• Communicate with the escrow officer handling the transaction for us to ensure all escrow matters including your lender's payoff demand, tax prorations, insurance binders and possible clouds on the title are received and/or resolved.
• Submit your seller's instructions to the escrow officer identifying responsibility for the miscellaneous costs outlined in the sales contract.
• Coordinate with the buyer for professional inspections of the property.
• Coordinate with the buyer's mortgage lender for appraisal of the property.
• Review and discuss with you all contingency removals and contract addenda.
• Resolve any pending negotiations before escrow closes.

Preparing Your Home For Sale
Are you familiar with the expression "curb appeal"? It's a fact in real estate - if your home can make a good impression as a buyer strolls up your walkway and through the door, you can set the stage for a successful showing.

First Impressions Count

• Have lawns and landscaping trimmed and neat, and your yard tidy and clutter free.
• Pick up the newspapers and sweep the front walkway.
• Flowers can make a difference. Fresh flowers work wonders, and you can pick up bright, potted flowers and line your porch or walkway with them.
• Your front door should be clean and shining; a fresh coat of paint or varnish can transform it.

Make Your Kitchen And Baths Sparkle

• Fix any leaky faucets and repair damaged or discolored caulking around tubs and showers.
• Keep counter tops uncluttered to promote a spacious feeling.
• Put dishes in the cupboards.
• Straighten bath towels and dish towels. Put out the good towels!
• MAKE MINOR REPAIRS AND BE SURE EVERYTHING IS CLEAN.
• Fix loose doorknobs, sticking doors, cupboard doors and holes in screens.
• Get rid of your extra "stuff." Are you a packrat? Remove or store personal items. Put away the family photos and exotic knick-knacks!
• Store tools and make sure the garage is clean and tidy. Do the same for the laundry room.
• Clean up! Clean carpets and curtains. A professional cleaning service can do wonders if you don't have the time or the desire. Be sure and run the vacuum between open houses and broker visits.

Pay Attention To Your Floors, Windows And Walls

• If you have hardwood floors, consider refinishing them if they are discolored or damaged.
• An investment in fresh paint can pay dividends.
• Open drapes and curtains to show how cheerful your home can be.
• Make sure your windows are spotless!
• Turn on both the interior and exterior lights to make your home feel warm and inviting, especially for an evening showing.
• Make the rooms appear spacious: remove excess furniture (side tables, magazine racks, bookshelves, extra chairs) to create a good traffic pattern and to show off your floor plan to its best advantage.
• Keep floors clutter-free!

When Your Home Is Shown
Here's a quick checklist to prepare your home for broker previews, open houses, and buyer showings:

• Pick up the newspapers and sweep the front walkway.
• Pick up toys and shoes.
• Make the beds.
• Put dishes away.
• Wipe off kitchen and bathroom counters.
• Give carpets a quick vacuum and floors a quick sweep.
• Open drapes and curtains.
• Touch up windows.
• Turn on both the interior and exterior lights.
• Turn off the television!
• Secure all valuables, including jewelry, cash, tools and prescription medication.
• Keep pets out of the way - and preferably out of the house. Make sure all pet areas are clean and odor-free.
• Plan to be out of the house.