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to get a good idea how much it will realistically cost you to buy a replacement home. Make plans in case you have tomove right away. Wasting Time on Unqualified Buyers It is wasted effort to show your home to someone who cannot buy it. An example is the seller who spent two weeks preparing his home for an acquaintance who wanted to buy his home. The seller spent $1,000 removing an old shed and met 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 sellersmakebuyers nervous. Buyersmay feel they are intruding and then rush through.Theymay 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 theirswhen 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.
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