Robert Bernstein - SELLING SECRETS YOU CAN'T AFFORD TO MISS

• Offering to close in a short time • Offering or transferring a home warranty • Prepaid property taxes for one year • Payment of HOA fees • Offering a mortgage buy-down

The list is extensive if you get creative, so discuss each of these with your listing agent before agreeing with a buyer. NOTE: There may be restrictions placed on the real estate agent because of agency laws. There are also lender limits on buyer credits — and they MUST be properly disclosed — so be sure to stay within the limit of the laws.

UNDERSTAND WHY HOMES DON'T SELL

Homes that do not sell for extended periods of time are usually priced too high or are too pricey for the neighborhood. Strategic pricing will always be the top reason homes sell successfully.

Here is a list of other common reasons that homes do not sell:

• The home is too cluttered. Piles and stacks of stuff discourage buyers. • The home interior is dated. Old styles, trimming or flooring deter sales, and so do any upgrades necessary to freshen up the decor. • The homeowner is not flexible with showings. Plan ahead to ensure kids, pets, and you are ready to show at any time. • The real estate agent did not provide a sufficiently aggressive marketing plan. • The real estate agent did not perform the Comparative