~~~ EAGER FSBO SELLERS ~~~ ..................SURPRISE!!!................ THIS ARTICLE IS JUST FOR YOU

Hi FSBO Sellers....I am a Listing Realtor with Coldwell Banker Paradise in Sebastian, Florida. One of my Target Markets is you; the FOR SALE BY OWNER sellers. Admittedly, you FSBO sellers are a tough crowd to convert. I have provided you with short list of My Selling Tips…I hope it is helpful. ~~~~~ I only LIST single family homes so keep that in mind.....if you are selling a condo the list might be different. ~~~~~ 1.) First Recommendation, hire a strong LISTING REALTOR; for those eager to take on the selling challenge; continue reading. ~ 2.) Expect “Surprises”....They happen! ~ 3.) Live in an Association? Get signage requirements and permission to install a sign. A sign gets the message out to neighbors and drive bys. When checking with the association get a set of CURRENT docs. Learn the application process. Know the rules and regulations. Have contact info for the association. ~ 4.) Order Professional Signs. Leave the fill in the blank signs in aisle 12 at the DYI stores. 5.) Photos tell a Story…Hire a pro. 6.) Mulch, weed, mow and add color to the landscaping. 7.) Remove Personal Items. The goal is to make this home someone else’s. 8.) Valuables should be in a safe place. 9.) Everything should Look Perfect. Beds should look sharp, counters should be clean and cleared. HINT, a toaster oven isn't a selling feature. Bath towels should be new. Toilet seats down. 10.) Empty your septic if you have one.....Most every home does in Sebastian, Florida 11.) "Casual Housekeeping" hurts YOUR bottom line! Tidy up! 12.) Have Pets; have a place for them to go while showing. 13.) Be Easy to Reach. Answer calls, textes and e-mails. Return messages promptly. 14.) Show in a Timely Manner. Two hours is a good window. Have all lights on, a/c low and play music. 15.) Know Answers about Insurance, Schools and Flood Zones. "What are the taxes?", is a top question. Your taxes will not be their taxes. 16.) Qualify Buyers; Show to buyers who are pre-approved. 17.) Understand Home Loans. Does the home qualify for VA/FHA loans, will it appraise or pass a home inspection? Form a relationship with a mortgage lender. The buyer will have one but have a local lender name handy. 18.) Know your Closing Costs. 19.) Hire a real estate Attorney. 20.) Making Appointments to Show. Don't show alone. Ask someone to assist you. Take names and numbers prior to showing. Give them to a third party. Have that person check in during showings. Have an emergency code word. Real Estate companies keep extensive records; so should you. Only show with an appointment. If they knock on the door wanting to see the home right away have and excuse ready. Make an appointment later in the day. 21.) Think Safety! 22.) Check your Permits and make sure they are closed. 23.) Open Houses should not be done alone, for safety, but you will have several potential buyers come in at once. You want to accommodate everyone. 24.) Have a List of the Highlights for Buyers…include lots of COLOR photos. Buyers view many homes. Photos refresh their memory. 25.) Answer Questions Honestly. If your association has any limitations like vehicles, pets or age disclose that upfront….you don't want to learn at closing your buyer has a Harley and the community prohibits motorcycles. You may not close. SURPRISE!!! 26.) There is so much more you should know like timelines, advertising, pricing, negotiations, appraisals, contracts, contingencies, and repairs and more. That's where the "Big Surprises" hide in plain sight. ~~~~~ This is part of my list. I'm a Realtor, not an attorney. Be wise and pay for legal advice. This is Mary Lou Ciambriello, Realtor and proud member Coldwell Banker Paradise wishing you an uneventful sale without "SURPRISES."