Sent to you courtesy of:

Sandy Tower, Broker/Agent    Contact: sandytower@comcast.net                Toll Free: 1/877/964-5800

Associated with:

Dickerson & Nieman, REALTORS®, 6277 E Riverside Blvd, Rockford, IL 61114 815/381-1195

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1. Why use a REALTOR®? Did you know that there really is a difference

between a real estate agent and a REALTOR®?

A REALTOR® is a member of the National Association of Realtors (NAR), which

holds it members to high professional standards of performance. NAR works

hard to ensure its members business practices are monitored at a local level.

Arbitration and disciplinary systems are established to hear complaints from

the community or members of the local board of REALTORS®. In addition,

the consumer receives a higher level of service with a REALTOR® because

of high educational standards.

2. Pay special attention to the "face" of your home. A dirty or wrinkled face

will turn off potential Buyers before then even set a foot inside your home.

Trim your bushes, paint the front porch, clean the door jams, and light fixtures.

Wash the glass on the storm door. Mow the lawn. You must let the Buyer’s

know that you CARE about your home. They then have confidence that you

have taken good care of the inside of your home as well. Such preparation

can bring you thousands more dollars. It is worth the effort.

more federal and state laws are in place to protect our environment. That’s

the reason for the strong Buyer support of inspections for pest, radon, lead

based paint, septic systems, underground oil tanks, and removal of such

tanks, smoke detectors on all floors of the home. Be aware that these are

now expected and the norm.

how we will bring Buyers to your home. Look for maximum exposure and

enthusiasm by your agent.

5. Buyers want to buy homes that need as little as possible in the way of

Repair and remodeling. The best way you, the Seller, can ensure the best

price for your home is to do as many of the repairs that you can "never got

around to doing" as possible. Examples:

Outside:

• Trim bushes.
• Sweep walkways and driveways.
• Clean up oil leaks.
• Fresh paint does wonders.
• Clean and sparkling windows show best.
• All plumbing and appliance must work.
• Pet areas should be squeaky clean.
• Pay special attention to sealant in windows, tubs and showers.
• Plant flowers.
• Clean roof and gutters.

Inside:

• Pet odors are the worst.
• Remove mildew and calcium build-up.
• Shine, shine, and shine.
• Dust, dust, and dust
• Fresh flowers in main rooms
• Open all curtains and turn on all lights
• Remove clutter
• No television.
• Soft music on the radio is okay
• Remove pets for all showings
• Hide all private and valuable items.

6. It is best not be home when Buyers come to view your home. 

Buyers become uncomfortable with  Sellers around. They would rather 

view the property without Sellers present. If you must remain home

during showing because of illness, children—make every effort to go 

for a walk, or remain out of earshot  of the Buyers.

7. Be cautious about overpricing your home. It is priced too high in the

beginning, those who would have been good Buyers will never know that

the price has been reduced. You lose them right out of the gate. Plus, when

you do lower your price, people begin to wonder just what is wrong with the house.

Had it been priced accurately in the first place, it would have sold more quickly

with less stigma.

8. Use caution in choosing an experienced Realtor, rather than a "convenient"

one. You will be well served by asking about the training and education of the

Realtor of your choice. Get references. Ask about his track record. For more info,

see the list of questions to ask a Realtor.

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