Few things feel worse then placing your home on the market and watching as the weeks turn in to months.  That's why in today's market you need a different approach to selling than you did in years past.  That's also why, if you want to sell successfully, you need to count on a company that gives you the edge.  With over 100 agents, your home is promoted before it even gets to the general public. Bill inserts just listed flyers in every mailbox and networks constantly with his co workers.

Bill has the TOOLS for the Times.
Nobody has the resources and services as innovative as Bill Armstrong!                      

1.   How do I find out what my home is worth?

 A comparative market analysis and an appraisal are the standard methods for determining a             home's value.  Your real estate agent will be happy to provide a comparative market analysis, an informal estimate of value based on comparable sales in the neighborhood.  Be sure you get listing prices of current homes on the market as well as those that have sold. What a comparable home sold for is the most important criteria, not what it was or is listed for.  You also can research this yourself by checking on recent sales in public records.  Be sure that you are researching properties that are similar in size, construction and location.  This information is not only available at your local recorder's or  assessor's office but also through private companies and on the Internet.  An appraisal, which  generally costs $200 to $300 to perform, is a certified appraiser's opinion of the value of a home at any given time.  Appraisers review numerous factors including recent comparable sales, location, squarefootage and construction quality. 

2.   How is the price set?

It's very important to price your home according to current market conditions.  Because the real estate market is continually changing, and market fluctuations have an effect on property values, it's imperative to select your list price based on the most recent comparable sales in your neighborhood.   A so-called comparative market analysis provides the background data upon which to base your list-price decision. When you prepare to sell and are interviewing agents, study each agent's comparable sales report (the data should be no more than three to six months old).  If all agents agree on a price range for your home, go with the consensus.  Be leary of agents who over value your property just to secure the listing.  This is the agent whose opinion of value is considerably higher than the others.

 

3.   What are the two most important factors when selling a home?



Price and condition are the two most important factors in selling a home, even in a down market. The first step is to price your home correctly.  Use comparative sales information from your agent, or pay for a professional appraiser (usually $200 to $300), to objectively evaluate your home's worth.   Second, go through the house and repair any obvious cosmetic defects that could deter a buyer.  In a down market, you may have to consider lowering your price and/or making a major repair, such as replacing the roof, in order to lure a buyer.  Another thing to consider is  to make sure that your home is getting the exposure it deserves through open houses, broker open houses, advertising, good signage and a listing on the local multiple listing service or online listings provider.  If this isn't happening, take it up with your agent or agent's broker.  If you are still not satisfied you are getting the service you need, you may have to switch agents.

4.  How do I choose an agent?

Real Estate is a business with a lot agents advertising there name, and not your home!  "Image advertising" promotes the agents name and not always your home for sale.  It is important to choose someone who will service your needs while your home is on the market.  How many times have you heard the story about the agent who put a sign in the lawn and wasn't heard from again until it was time for a price reduction?  Talk with an agent who will not only advertise your home but will also sell your home and negotiate on your behalf!  Bill Armstrong will carrry out all of these actions on your behalf.

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