Frequently Asked Questions

Many of your questions should focus on potential problems and maintenance issues. Does anything need to be replaced? What things require ongoing maintenance (e.g., paint, roof, HVAC, appliances, carpet)? Also ask about the house and neighborhood, focusing on quality of life issues. Be sure the seller’s or real estate agent’s answers are clear and complete. Ask questions until you understand all of the information they’ve given. Making a list of questions ahead of time will help you organize your thoughts and arrange all of the information you receive.

Searching for that dream property can be exhausting. Let me help you by making an intensive profile
of your “wish list” . The more information you provide, the better I can assist you. Try to prioritize the area you would like to cottage or reside in. You can always change a structure, but you can’t change the property or waterfront. Location, location, location.

That perfect property is out there for you. It may take a little time, but we will find it!

De-personalize & de-clutter. Try to pack away a significant portion of your personal memories such as pictures, momentos, knick knacks etc. Less is more! This will make it easier for the buyer to picture their furniture and belongings in the home.

Try to leave the home for showings. It’s difficult to remain emotion-free when selling. If you’re there during the showing, you may be engaged by the buyer.

Provide as many details of your home as possible such as surveys, septic documentation, water well record, appliance service guides and warranties, square footage, building plans, renovations/updated info.

Listen to your real estate agent’s advice, but follow your own instincts on deciding a fair price. Calculating your offer should involve several factors: what homes sell for in the area, the home’s condition, how long it’s been on the market, financing terms, and the seller’s situation. By the time you’re ready to make an offer, you should have a good idea of what the home is worth and what you can afford. And, be prepared for give-and-take negotiation, which is very common when buying a home. The buyer and seller may often go back and forth until they can agree on a price.

Your real estate agent will assist you in making an offer, which will include the following information:

• Complete legal description of the property
• Amount of earnest money deposit
• Down payment and financing details
• Proposed move-in date
• Price you are offering
• Proposed closing date
• Length of time the offer is valid
• Details of the deal

Remember that a sale commitment depends on negotiating a satisfactory contract with the seller, not just making an offer.

In addition to comparing the home to your minimum requirement and wish lists, you may want to consider the following:

• Is there enough room for both the present and the future?
• Are there enough bedrooms and bathrooms?
• Is the home structurally sound?
• Do the mechanical systems and appliances work?
• Is the yard big enough?
• Do you like the floor plan?
• Will your furniture fit in the space? Is there enough storage space?
• Imagine the home in good weather and bad – will you be happy with it year round?

Take your time and think carefully about each house you see. Ask your real estate agent to point out the pros and cons of each home from a professional standpoint.