Never make the mistake of spending the earnest money or deposit a buyer gives you until you have completed the sale of your home. It’s not common, but sales can fall apart at the last minute, even during closing. Sometimes the buyer’s financing falls through. Other times, an inspector or repair person notices a serious, last- minute problem that will interrupt the sale. Don’t be left scrambling to pay back the would-be buyer if the deal is called off. A well-written contract, such as a contract your real estate agent recommends, will provide for this contingency and make it clear how to protect earnest money and refund it to the buyer if the sale is voided.
FORGETTING TO CANCEL/SWITCH UTILITIES OR INSURANCE
Many sellers overlook notifying utility providers that they’re moving or applying for service at their new home. Call your utility and insurance companies as soon as a contract is signed. Find out how many days of notification they need to switch or cancel service, then let them know when you have a firm closing date.
LETTING EMOTIONS TAKE OVER
Try to remain cool and unruffled throughout the sales process. Walk-throughs and inspections can be especially irritating. Few homes are in perfect condition, and that “little problem” you’ve learned to live with may violate housing codes or represent a potential safety issue down the road. If repairs are needed, it’s better to make them before the sale, rather than risk the buyer holding you accountable afterward for failing to disclose and mitigate the situation. Sure, the buyer might be nitpicking, but is that really worth you jeopardizing the deal by getting upset? Of course, some buyer demands are unreasonable and can result in costs snowballing. Before the sale, do a thorough assessment of which repairs might be necessary. Don’t get so caught up in the
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