discover two years later that it had previously been used as a meth lab. Cleaning up the property cost $16,000. The Lesson Always research a property’s history. If you’re buying or selling without professional guidance, you’re walking a tightrope without a net. Under Pressure From Your Own Agent One seller recounted accepting an offer $7,000 below the asking price while covering $6,000 in closing costs. Why? Their agent insisted it was the best they could get. At the time, their home sold for $500,000. Fast forward to the pre-housing crash boom: similar homes in their neighborhood were selling for $650,000—a significant leap that underscored how crucial proper advocacy and market strategy can be. The Lesson Your agent should be your advocate, not another hurdle to overcome. Make sure they’re negotiating in your best interest—not theirs. Why These Stories Matter Every scenario in this chapter underscores a critical point: informed decisions are your best ally in the home-selling process. From pricing missteps to agent advocacy, these stories highlight how easily things can go awry—and how much smoother the journey can be with the right strategies and professionals on your side. Selling your home isn’t just about putting it on the market; it’s about creating a strategy that maximizes your home’s value while minimizing stress and uncertainty. Working with seasoned professionals who prioritize your goals, verify buyer
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