Redding's Ups and Downs

Communication is the key ingredient between a homeowner and the Realtor they choose to sell their home. If an agent does not keep you informed, suggest a list price backed up with an up-to-date CMA, or does not make suggestions for “staging” a home such as reducing clutter, etc., then the Realtor may just plan to list it on the MLS without doing one more thing.  That's not enough!                                                            Make sure you're in the driver's seat.

Hire only full time agents and make sure your listing agreement with a broker allows you to back out of the contract if you’re not satisfied. If an agent does not return calls or starts by showing you only their listings, they do not have your best interest at heart. Fire them

If you don't have to sell your home right away, don’t. Wait for housing prices to go back up.

If you do have to sell, even in downward spiraling market, you can sell your home if you stage it and price it right. Motivated sellers need to pay close attention to the listing price the Realtor suggests... Price it right or prepare to just follow the market down with no offers.

Have home and pest inspections before listing your home. That way, you are aware upfront of any costs of repairs needed because most lenders will not loan on a house unless certain repairs are fixed. Homeowner can then decide whether they want to make the repairs themselves and possibly save money.

If a seller chooses not to make repairs before listing their home, at least the buyers have a list of what needs to be done when they make the offer and emotions are high. Buyers are more willing to give no regard to what repairs the lender does not require... If the buyer has to wait 17 days or more for perform their own inspections, and the emotional tides have waned, they’re liable to ask for the moon.