5 Ways to Get to Know Your Neighborhood and Local Market

5 Ways to Get to Know Your Neighborhood and Local Market

 

Finding quality leads and generating new business, as any real estate agent knows, begins with cultivating pre-existing relationships. However, generating new leads can be difficult if you do not already have a large referral base or if you are new to the area.

 

While new agents tend to focus on open houses and cold calling or spend a lot of money on print advertising, successful agents are able to cultivate referrals by working alongside neighbors and collaborators.

  • Please introduce yourself

 

Choose three community leaders you’d like to meet more closely and either ask for introductions or send an email introducing yourself. Have trouble coming up with something to say? You can send them a link that you believe is relevant to their work, congratulate them on a recent accomplishment, or simply let them know you’ve noticed they’re making a difference in the community.

  • Keep in touch

When was the last time you communicated with a previous client? If you don’t already have a spreadsheet or tracking system in place to remind you of birthdays, holidays, and regular checkpoints, make one now and be proactive about staying in their lives.

  • Demonstrate that you care

While you cannot attend every community event, choosing a few to attend throughout the year will help you meet people and build rapport. If you don’t already have a community volunteer event planned, visit your community’s website or social media pages to find an upcoming cause that fits your passion and your schedule.

  • Change notes

Because real estate professionals succeed more when they understand their market, find a partner in your market with whom you can share notes—and vice versa. Connecting with other agents, even if they are technically your competition, is a great way to learn from their successes and establish yourself as a peer.

  • Consider yourself a journalist.

Information about your market can come from a variety of sources. As if you were an investigative journalist, approach your market. Sign up for community newsletters, compile a list of neighborhood newspapers, and see if there are any upcoming town hall meetings where you could learn something new or form a new relationship.

 

Repairs You Shouldn’t Try on Your Own: DIYs That Could Hurt Your Lease

Repairs You Shouldn’t Try on Your Own: DIYs That Could Hurt Your Lease

 

The feeling of success you get when you finish a DIY project in your apartment is unparalleled. Some maintenance, on the other hand, should be left to your landlord or property manager. 

 

You can tackle simple repairs like changing a lightbulb on your own, but if you’re not careful, you could find up breaking your lease terms. You also run the risk of losing your security deposit. Here are a few maintenance issues you should leave to the professionals.

 

APPLIANCES THAT ARE BROKEN OR MALFUNCTIONING

Perhaps your dryer broke down when you were doing your first load of washing, your refrigerator isn’t cold, or the air conditioning ran out in the summer. Avoid the temptation to look for DIY solutions online, as appealing as they may seem. 

 

Appliances are expensive, so you don’t want to make matters worse by attempting to repair it yourself and further harming them. An expert will be able to precisely diagnose the issue and recommend the best course of action.

 

ELECTRICAL SOCKETS THAT HAVE BEEN DAMAGED AND OTHER ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS

Although no one wants to get electrocuted, some renters make the mistake of attempting to repair electrical issues alone. Although a little fracture in an electric outlet may not appear to be a big issue at first look, leave it alone and get maintenance as soon as possible.

 

PESTS

Despite the fact that there are simple, temporary solutions for ants, mice, roaches, and other pests, it is normally the landlord’s responsibility to exterminate them, unless the infestation is the consequence of tenant neglect. Traps can help slow down an infestation, but your landlord or property manager will need to appoint a specialist to completely eradicate the bugs.

 

GAS LEAK

A gas leak is a maintenance emergency that should be handled by your landlord alone. A gas leak could result in a fire or an explosion, so report it right once. Gas exposure can result in significant physical injury, including death, therefore contact maintenance immediately.

 

BLOCKED GUTTERS 

 

Clogged gutters can cause more serious problems, such as roof damage and vermin infestation if you rent your home. It may appear like clearing gutters is as simple as grabbing a ladder and sweeping out the leaves, but this is not the case. As you fall to the earth, you may lose your equilibrium, grab the gutter, and rip it off. It’s preferable to leave it to the maintenance crew because it’s dangerous and may do further damage.

 

AIR CONDITIONING REPAIRS

 

The heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems in a home are referred to as HVAC. Landlords are required by law to provide renters with safe and sanitary living conditions, which includes handling HVAC maintenance. Although all jurisdictions require landlords to supply heat, not all states require air conditioning, so knowing your local and state rules is critical.

 

Secrets to Selling in Today’s Market

Secrets to Selling in Today’s Market

 

You may have heard once or twice (or a zillion times by now) that it’s a seller’s market currently. And while this is still true, it doesn’t necessarily mean the same thing it did a generation ago (or even a few years ago). This market is markedly different, in large part due to the pandemic and the low inventory of homes for sale and high demand of buyers. And while it does mean that homes are selling at record speed, it doesn’t mean you should hastily throw your house on the market and choose the first good offer that comes along. Here are a few secrets we’ve complied.

 

1. Have a place to go

One pro tip is to have a place lined up to go once your house sells. It most likely will sell quickly and you won’t have the luxury to find another house in the meantime. Because, after your home sells, you will now be in the position of buyer and need to fight on the other side of things. So, if you don’t have another home lined up, consider renting until you can plan your next move. It could take a little while to purchase your next home with the slew of buyers out there. But don’t give up. Just make sure you’re not stressing about where to stay while you find your next spot.

 

2. Consider your marketing

While your home might sell right away without you hardly lifting a finger, it might not sell for top dollar if you don’t invest in the right marketing. It’s not always enough these days to throw a few photos up (even if they’re professionally taken). A lot of buyers want interactive floorplans, video walkthroughs of the home and even aerial photos. Turnkey home has come to take on a whole new meaning. They want the works. So yes, listing photos are great, but to get asking price (or even above) go the extra step with some of these marketing bells and whistles.

 

3. Take your time choosing an offer

It might be tempting to accept the first good offer you receive, especially if the offer is above asking price. However, be wary of these offers. It might be fine and go through. But you also run the risk of having the appraisal come back under that amount of the offer. Then you would be forced to lower the price of the deal. Or, the buyer could offer above asking but then rescind their offer or demand lower after the home inspection. You might be better off choosing an offer that is at or slightly above asking but perhaps they waive the inspection or they have a bit of a flexible closing date. These types of contingencies will go a long way in your peace of mind and the ease of the transaction. And if that sky-high offer is rescinded because of the home inspection or because of an appraisal gap, then you’re back to square 1 anyways.

 

4. Prepare to be busy…very busy

Another aspect of the selling game that differs from past markets is how quickly the showings will come at you. It used to be perhaps that a seller would have a showing scheduled once every couple of days with maybe more on the weekend. But with the onslaught of eager buyers vying to get in there quickly to scoop up your house, you’re most likely going to have back to back showings for several days. You might want to get out of dodge for a bit or at least stay with friends, family or at a hotel for a few days to make your life (and your agent’s) easier.

 

Consider these secrets for successfully selling your home in the current market. And contact me today to learn more about the market and how I can help sell your New Jersey home for top dollar.

Is Moving This Year a Good Call? Questions to Ask Yourself!

Is Moving This Year a Good Call? Questions to Ask Yourself!

 

Are you thinking of making a move this year? If you’re wondering about it, but not sure where to start or if it’s the right time, you are not alone. We all experience times when we’re not sure which option will be the best for us and our loved ones. But here’s a simple checklist to get started. These are questions to ask yourself to help you narrow down why you want to move and if you’re ready.

 

Question 1: What are you hoping to gain?

Start with this question: what is it I am hoping to gain with this move? Another way to word it is: what is missing from my current home situation? This will help you navigate what exactly your goal is with a move. Sometimes we have an urge for a change of scenery. There’s nothing wrong with that being the reason. However, moves can be huge stressors as well, so make sure that what you are going to gain is worth the work and stress of moving. Are you hoping to gain more space to spread out? Perhaps your job situation has shifted, and you want a designated home office. Or maybe you and your partner are wanting to grow your family. Or are you hoping to gain more outdoor space and quiet? Maybe then you are considering moving out of a city or suburb to a country location. Maybe you are hoping to gain greater sense of community by moving closer to friends or family. Knowing your “why” will help you stay on track.

Question 2: What are your priorities?

Once you know this why of moving and what large scale aspect(s) you are hoping to gain, begin to work on narrowing down your priorities. This can include a “non-negotiables” list as well as a secondary “wish” list. If you are moving to gain more space, “home office” or “yard” might go in your non-negotiables. But aspects like fireplace, chef’s kitchen, or jacuzzi tub in the master bath might fall on your wish list. And even with the larger aspects, you want to know before you start looking what your top priorities are. Because you might have to compromise even on these larger aspects. For example, you might have to choose between being super close to family or having a large yard if the area is more populated. Knowing the top aspects will help you navigate those decisions and compromises.

Question 3: What is your overall budget?

Thinking about budget may not be the most fun task but it is certainly one of the most vital. And staying within budget will directly affect your long-term financial goals and your stress levels moving forward. Take the time to sit and plan out your budget for a mortgage but also for the extra expenses associated with moving, such as closing costs, moving fees, and initial maintenance tasks. It’s also good practice to factor in long term financial goals when planning a move. This will prevent you from biting off more than you can feasibly chew. For example, maybe a long-term goal is retiring at a certain age or travelling more in the coming years. Factor in those extra retirement savings or that travel account so you don’t overspend on a mortgage, limiting those other goals.

 

Start with these questions to evaluate if now is a good time for a move. And when you’re ready to find your next home, I am here to help you find the perfect one!

 

Stage Your Home to Sell

Stage Your Home to Sell

 

Staging your home smartly will help you sell faster and for a better price. Here are a few ideas of how to stage for optimum return on your investment.

The kitchen is the main event

A good place to start is in the kitchen. Buyers want to see a sparkling and clutter-free kitchen. If you don’t have funds for major renovations, not to worry. You can start with a few small but effective upgrades. Clean until the kitchen gleams. Pack away all dishes you don’t use regularly. Tidy the pantry and cabinets by throwing out old food items, using things up and cutting back on the overall amount in these areas. Buyers want to see the available storage and it’s hard to appreciate what’s there if it’s a mess and completely stock full. Next, install new hardware if needed like a faucet, or new cabinet handles and knobs. Paint cabinets as well for an instant update and refresh.

Curb appeal is the real deal

Spend some time on the exterior of the home as well. First impressions are no joke. See what small projects you can take on to improve the overall aesthetic. Trim back shrubs and trees, add a fresh layer of mulch in flower beds, and weed thoroughly. Paint the front door for an instant face lift. Place planters on the porch or the steps leading up to the home. Install new house numbers and a new mailbox if the old one is falling apart. Wash windows inside and out and consider power washing if the home is really looking worse for the wear.

Clutter is never helpful

We already touched on this for the kitchen, but decluttering your home is key. Buyers want to see the bones and structure of the home. They also want to see the potential that could be if they buy the home and move in. So, it’s a balancing act of making your furnishings look pleasant but not overbearing or cluttered. Pare down on furniture in general. Pack away all kids’ toys, personal paperwork, and office clutter. Take down personal photos and anything controversial. Think sparse and minimalist in the décor. Show off the windows and natural light by removing heavy curtains or opening blinds before showings. Stow away obvious evidence of pets before showings as well. Hide the litter box or the chew toys. Essentially you want the home to look livable and inviting without looking too lived in.

 

Start with these 3 staging tips to get your home ready to sell. And make sure to talk to your trusted real estate advisor for more tricks on staging and selling your home.

 

 

4 Hard Truths to Keep in Mind When Selling a Home in New Jersey

4 Hard Truths to Keep in Mind When Selling a Home in New Jersey

 

While selling a home is an event that most of us experience at some point in our lives, no-one actually pays attention to how difficult it actually is. Here are 4 important facts to keep in mind when selling a home, especially because it’s going to be frustrating to get through these home-selling moments.

Keep tabs on the market

Know what’s going on in your local real estate market and what’s driving it? If you’re unsure, make sure your Realtor is aware. If your Realtor doesn’t know, look for someone who does. Real estate will always be local, and knowing what the local trends are for your neighbourhood is crucial to selling your house.

 

Remember cleanliness matters

A home that is clean and uncluttered sells faster – A filthy home reduces your earnings by hundreds of dollars, because it taints the buyers first impression, immediately lowering the perceived value of your home. It’s true, if you don’t put in a little effort, you could lose a lot of money. One of the most significant benefits of selling your home is the time you will save cleaning and decluttering it.

 

Price your home right

Your home should be priced to sell. You will attract the most competent and eager buyers from the first day you offer your home for sale. A new house listing shines brightest in the first few weeks. Buyers who have been waiting for a new home to come on the market, as well as those who have just begun shopping, will notice your property priced properly and will break down your front door to take a closer look. When a listing sits on the market for weeks or months without selling, it becomes stale and is sometimes maligned for why it hasn’t sold. They’ll either presume there’s a problem with the house or that it’s overpriced. Buyers will seek a reduction if they believe anything is wrong with the property, and if it’s been on the market for a long time due to being overpriced, they’ll assume you’re getting desperate since your home hasn’t sold and that you’d be willing to take a discount. Minimize the discounts, value it correctly, and you’ll have a better chance of attracting numerous buyers.

 

Repair all loose ends

Repairs that you’ve been intending to make will be a lot less expensive if you do them prior to selling your house. When a Buyer notices that a repair is required, they will inflate the actual cost of repair to account for their emotions. This is because when they observe a basic repair that could have been done, they will wonder what else is in need of repair and if you have properly maintained the home. They’ll be curious about what’s lurking beneath the surface, concealed and unseen by the human eye. They are apprehensive about the unknown and will demand a higher discount just in case something else comes up after they purchase your home.

 

Keep these 4 hard truths in mind when selling this season! And as always, let me know how I can help your real estate dreams become a reality.

Factors Sellers Should Consider When Comparing Offers

Factors Sellers Should Consider When Comparing Offers

 

When selling your home, you may think the only thing that matters in an offer is the amount. Are they offering full asking? Over? Under? While this is certainly one of the most important aspects to look at, there are other factors to consider that can be very important as well. Let’s look at a few of these factors.

 

1. How are they paying?

While you do want an offer that’s full asking (or even above that), you also want to know how the buyer plans to pay. If they are going through a lender, you’ll want to see their pre-approval letter. This should be included in the offer. This means the lender is ready to back them for said amount. Even if an offer is at or slightly below asking, if it’s an offer with pre-approval and up against an offer without, it’s worth considering.

If the buyer is offering cash, that can be a great deal. It can mean less hassle and time waiting for the mortgage to be fully approved. But also be aware that in return for cash, the buyer has leverage to negotiate and they could ask for things such as a decrease in overall price or some other perk.

 

2. What’s the earnest amount offered?

The earnest amount is like a deposit the buyer will put down that your brokerage will hold until the sale goes through. It’s then applied to the down payment. It’s a good faith deposit, showing that the buyer is serious about purchasing your home. The nice part is, if something happens and the sale doesn’t close, you often will get to keep this deposit. The higher this earnest amount, the better. It shows the buyers are more committed to going through with the sale.

 

3. How many contingencies are added?

Contingencies are extra terms or benchmarks added in along the sale process that the seller must satisfy in order for the sale to go through successfully. The home inspection and appraisal are the two most common contingencies added in to offers and contracts. The home inspection means that if large issues are found with your home, the buyers could require that you repair those items or they are allowed to walk away from the sale. And the appraisal establishes that the home is worth the sale price. If it’s found not to be, you will have to renegotiate the sale price.

These contingencies aren’t necessarily working against you. However, the fewer the contingencies, the better. The sale will go through quicker without these and there will be fewer chances for a buyer to back out.

 

4. What’s the closing timeline?

Chances are if you’re selling, you might also need to find a new home for you and your family. This might lead to time deadlines or pressure to sell by or on a specific date. So consider what the buyers can offer for a closing timeline and closing date. If a buyer is flexible and can work with your timeline, this could really benefit you even if their offer is slightly less compared to another.

 

Keep all these aspects of selling in mind when you start receiving offers. Weigh the pros and cons of an offer, not only limited to the initial payment offered.

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