The Importance of listing your home on the MLS

The Importance of listing your home on the MLS

by | Mar 4, 2024 | Buyers, Buying Conditions, Contracts, Helpful Tips, Listings, Security, Sellers, Sellers-Contracts, Selling Conditions

We have heard rumors lately of some homes selling outside of the MLS.  This seems like it might be easier if we want to sell our home.  How would you advise us? 

When inventory is very tight as it is currently, there are desperate buyers out there and many of them are bold enough to approach prospective sellers directly.  There are also occasions of homes selling with agents but in a “pre-MLS” sale situation.  As convenient as it may sound to sell your home in one of these scenarios, before you do so, it is imperative that you weigh whether your privacy and/or convenience is worth the tens of thousands (or sometimes hundreds of thousands) of dollars that you will leave on the table by making that choice.

The MLS is your most powerful tool for bringing the most money and the most favorable contract terms to your doorstep. If it is so easy to sell your home that it can be done with a single buyer approaching you and viewing your home, or an agent bringing in a buyer or two, then It is a near certainty that if you exposed it to the greater market, you would receive a much higher price.  When an agreement of sale is generated outside the MLS with such minimal effort, it is generally for one of two reasons. The first is that you significantly underpriced the property and the buyer knows it is a steal.  Even if you consulted with an agent in setting the price, market values fluctuate so quickly that the agent may not have been fully appreciating how the market would value your home.  Secondly, the market may be so starved for inventory in your price range that there may be a tremendous number of buyers seeking a home like yours, and one lucky one got there first with no competition.  Both of these scenarios benefit only one party to the transaction – the buyer.

If your net gain is a priority, don’t be fooled by promises of a quick sale.  Use the power of the MLS and pocket the highest possible profit for your home. Even when you are paying a Realtor, the profit you will net is most certainly higher than going it alone.  Reach out to me and we can discuss strategies for maximizing the value the market will yield for your home!

Experience Makes

The Difference

If you’re moving across town, from elsewhere in the state, or even relocating
across the country, I can help you find the perfect home! 

Connect With Kathe

Buying is Still a Smart Choice

Buying is Still a Smart Choice

by | Aug 28, 2023 | Buyers, Buying Conditions, Helpful Tips, Interest Rates, Investment Properties, Listings, Market Trends, Mortgage, Property Value, Real Estate, Schools, Security

The high interest rates are discouraging to us and we are not sure we want to purchase – any thoughts?

The decision to buy a house, whether a first home or a new home, is one of the most significant financial choices many individuals will make in their lives. While rising interest rates may seem like a deterrent, there are compelling reasons why the current real estate landscape still offers tremendous opportunities for potential homebuyers.

Real estate has proven to be a strong long-term investment. Even with higher interest rates, purchasing a home today can lead to substantial equity growth over the years. Real estate has a history of appreciating in value, and buying a home now positions buyers to benefit from potential future appreciation.  High rates are also holding some buyers back for the time being, which allows you an opportunity to buy with less competition.

While high interest rates can be a concern for those seeking mortgages, they also present an opportunity for buyers to secure a fixed-rate mortgage while rates are still relatively low by historic standards. A fixed-rate mortgage ensures stable monthly payments throughout the life of the loan, providing a sense of financial security and predictability that renting cannot.  While rates may feel comparatively high, economists and financial experts predict that interest rates may continue to rise in the coming years. By entering the market now, buyers have the opportunity to secure a home and a mortgage at what are still relatively lower rates before they increase further.  If they drop, you can refinance.  But how long do you want to sit on the fence and miss out on opportunities while you hope for a miracle (2.65% will probably end up as a once-in-a-lifetime that we all need to move past, unless you simply never want to move)?

Homeownership also offers a range of tax benefits, such as deductions for mortgage interest and property taxes. These advantages can help offset the impact of higher interest rates, making homeownership more affordable in the long run. While interest rates may be higher, lenders are still offering a variety of financing options to suit different budgets and preferences. Buyers can explore loan programs, down payment assistance, and other resources that can help mitigate the impact of higher interest rates.

In the face of rising interest rates, the decision to buy remains an attractive option for those seeking stability, investment opportunities, and a place to call home. While it’s essential to consider the financial implications of higher rates, the potential benefits of homeownership, including equity growth, tax advantages, and personal satisfaction, can outweigh the short-term impact of slightly increased mortgage rates. Working with a knowledgeable real estate agent and mortgage professional can help buyers navigate the current market and make informed decisions that align with their long-term goals.

Experience Makes

The Difference

If you’re moving across town, from elsewhere in the state, or even relocating
across the country, I can help you find the perfect home! 

Connect With Kathe

Security Camera Do’s & Don’ts

Security Camera Do’s & Don’ts

by | Feb 19, 2022 | Buyers, Helpful Tips, Listings, Market Trends, Real Estate, Security, Sellers, Selling Conditions

We have security cameras in our home – is it ok to leave them on when we show our home?

Video recording is permitted, except in areas where people have a reasonable expectation of privacy, such as a bathroom. In those areas, you may not record.  Audio recording is much trickier, and most security cameras these days record video and audio.  In the state of Pennsylvania, audio recording requires the consent of all parties being recorded.  Therefore, the best practice, to protect yourself from any legal consequences, is to disable audio recordings of your showings.  This does not mean that you cannot listen in – you can!  It means you cannot make an audio recording of the showing.

Some sellers are just curious and want to know what people are saying about their homes.  Some won’t be able to figure out how to disable the audio recording component of their system.  In those cases, it is important that you prominently disclose that the property has video and audio surveillance. This needs to be done in a conspicuous way – you should post a notice at your entry door as well as someplace immediately visible on entry – I create a fun little sign with a smiley face that says “smile – you’re being recorded. Property is protected by audio/video surveillance.”  When people enter your property having viewed the signage, it is deemed implied consent to the recording. It is also important that you make sure that your Realtor clearly indicate that there is audio and video surveillance in the MLS Realtor comments as well as in the lockbox instructions, if applicable.  Do not forget to fully disclose your cameras to your agent (this should be done the first time your Realtor comes over, as recording anyone without their consent is illegal – not just the prospective buyers!) Over-disclosure is a good thing when it comes to recordings!

If you are a buyer, you should of course assume that every property you view is protected by audio and video recording and be sure to keep your comments to yourself until you are back in your car (many homes have extensive exterior surveillance as well as interior surveillance, so talking near the home is generally not a good idea!)  Keep interior conversations positive, but don’t say more than you would want to say directly to the seller in advance of submitting an offer!

Experience Makes

The Difference

If you’re moving across town, from elsewhere in the state, or even relocating
across the country, I can help you find the perfect home! 

Connect With Kathe