Q:  I want to sell. What should I do?

A: First thing to do: Create the best curb appeal possible. You want buyers to walk inside your home. A homebuyer's first impression is based upon their view of the house from their car. Take a walk across the street and take a good look at your house. Look at nearby houses, too, and see how yours compares.
The most cost effective methods are to clean up any unnecessary clutter, plant colorful flowers, manicure the lawn and trees. Get a new plush door mat, too. Painting will always bring more buyers inside. Removing and replacing old or unkempt window coverings will help. If you have an area for flowers, buy mature colorful flowers and plant them.
On the inside try to remove clutter and keep pathways clear. When people enter keep windows open to let as much light in as possible. Often people store extra things in the garage to clear their home.
Remember, that many buyers have a difficult time imagining what a house will look like after they've moved in. So the more desirable look you provide, the better the offers. Also, keep your property safe from obstacles and hazards (cords, holes, slippery surfaces, etc.)
Prior to listing your property please gather and provide your agent any and all paperwork pertaining to the home (construction paperwork, permits, inspections, notices, etc.).

Q:  How much is my property worth?

A: Your agent will provide you with recent sales and listings in your area and will give you a price range of what your property should sell for. By pricing your home too high you will discourage buyers from even looking, and the property may not even come to their attention. Believe it or not, overpriced properties tend to take an unusually long time to sell, and they usually end up being sold at a lower price. By pricing it too low you will likely get many offers immediately and a few all-cash offers. This can be corrected by waiting a week to counter or accept and offer.

Q:  What kind of repairs are recommended and add value?

A: Kitchens and bathrooms greatly help to sell a house because they are the most expensive and most important rooms of a home for the typical buyer. Any monies spent on these 2 items almost always yield much more in increased value, more than any other repair. Even minor upgrades will increase the value of your home, as long as they are done professionally and in good taste.
Termite issues. All homes in Los Angeles County have termite issues. The buyer of your home will likely have a lender that requires a termite report and clearance. Termite clearance means the structure is clear of infestations and usually is guaranteed for 1 year. Before listing your home have it inspected and have all repairs done. Having termite clearance will increase value and limit the buyer's negotiating options. If you are in a city that requires a City Inspection (Pasadena, San Marino, etc.) get it done now and correct any violations. Again, if you have clearance you will increase the value and limit the buyer's negotiating options.

Q:  How long will it take for my property to sell?

A: There are three main variables that affect the length of time a property is on the market: the price of the home; the condition of the home; and the current market conditions. The seller can affect the first two of these variables—an appropriately priced home in great condition, with fresh paint and all details in order, will have appeal to many potential buyers and is more likely to sell more quickly—even in a slower market. For more information on what to expect when you’re selling visit the Sellers section of the site or talk with your NestQuest agent.

Q:  What do I need to disclose?

A: By law anything that can materially affect the desirability of a home must be disclosed. Please discuss this at length with your agent. The number one problem in transactions is intentional and unintentional non-disclosure of important items. Think about problems your home has (foundation, electrical, leaks, plumbing, noise, unpermitted work, soil and drainage problems, deed restrictions, etc.). NestQuest.com can help you with this.

Q:  Should I provide a home warranty?

A: Home warranties are more and more popular, even with homes in excellent condition. The typical warranty is $375 and covers most plumbing, electric, garbage disposal, vent fans, the water heater, etc. The buyer calls the warranty company and they send a licensed contractor to remedy the problem, as long as it is a covered item. It is an excellent selling feature for the seller, it shows good faith, and helps cover the seller from liability.

Q:  How does my property get shown?

A: There are many ways to have buyers view your home. Your agent will coordinate appointments at times that are convenient to you. The easier it is to show your home the greater likelihood that you receive the most and higher offers. Computer coded lock boxes (Supra) can also be used for access so you don't need to be home. Discuss this with your agent because it is vitally important to have the property available, but at the same time to work with your schedule and privacy.

Q:  What should I do while someone is viewing my home?

A: Buyers don't want to feel pressured. Kindly step outside with any pets and turn off all radios and TV's. Keep the sinks clean, the shower clean, and turn on most of the lights so they don't see dark rooms. Take care of all valuables and breakables and insist that the buyer is accompanied by their real estate agent. Make sure you get the real estate agent's business card. Limit talking about your properties shortcomings; you don't want the buyer to think they can negotiate you down on price.

Q:  Should I answer a buyer's direct questions?

A: You are paying your real estate agent to negotiate, market and communicate for you. Limit your direct conversations with agents and their buyers and ask them to ask your agent the questions. You are under no obligation to talk to anyone if you choose not to. Most buyers and their agents understand that it is usually inappropriate to talk to the seller directly.