removing an old shed andmet with the prospect several times to discuss price and terms. It was well into the process when the seller found out the prospect could not qualify for a loan. Real estate agents spend considerable effort weeding out showing to nonqualified and unqualified home shoppers. “Hovering” Whenever possible, don’t be home when showing. This is impossible or impractical if you are selling the home yourself. If you have a real estate agent, leave when the house is shown. Lurking sellers make buyers nervous. Buyers may feel they are intruding and then rush through. They may be hesitant to talk about changes to the home or features they don’t like. Buyers will feel uncomfortable closely inspecting the house in the presence of the owners. It’s easier for buyers to visualize the home being theirs when they have a chance to critique and discuss the home among themselves. If you must be home, try to stay out of the way and answer questions only if asked. Unless there’s a real reason for it, don’t ask your agent to be present for all showings, either. That will limit your showing activity. Other agents want privacy with their buyers and they do not usually have time to work around your agent’s schedule. Waiting It Out If you decide to wait, you are joining the thousands of other homeowners who have also decided to wait. When a few decide it’s time to take the plunge, you’re already too late. If you need/want to sell now, then sell now. There will never be a better time. Not Taking the First Quick Bid This happens repeatedly. The seller gets a bite early on and is suddenly filled with confidence that the house will easily sell and maybe even get involved in a bidding war. It feels like you’re standing over a pond packed with a hungry fish. The first offer doesn’t seem great and you naturally assume there must be bigger, juicier fish to be had. So, you throw the not-so-small-after-all fish back in. Big mistake. That “tiddler” is often the “catch of the day.”
55
Powered by FlippingBook