It’s always a pleasure to represent homeowners who have meticulously maintained their property and home throughout their years of ownership. Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case. Often it is a financial situation, aging in place, owners who live off-island, estate sale where the owner is deceased, or even unfinished builds that can create a less than perfect selling situation. Are these properties sellable? Absolutely!
Here’s how to go from Listed to Sold:
- The Realtor® evaluates the current condition of the home and property, noting what obvious areas needing attention such as peeling paint, dry rot, outdated fixtures and flooring, trash, curb appeal, termite droppings, etc.
- A Pre-Listing General Inspection is conducted by a certified general inspector to identify what isn’t easily visible. This includes the condition of the plumbing, electrical, foundation, potential of mold, termite activity, septic, to name just a few potential issues. (Not every Realtor will offer and pay for this service.)
- An honest conversation with the homeowner, or trustee, will reveal what they are able to replace and repair based on their finances, time and physical abilities. And a great Realtor® will have an extensive Resource List to help them secure the necessary experts.
- Sometimes a property must be sold in it’s current condition, especially with a home that has been vacant for a period of time. This means that it will be marketed in its current condition, the price will be commensurate, and an As Is Addendum will be required by all buyers who make an offer. Usually, only safety issues will be addressed, with a possible buyer’s credit at close of escrow offered to compensate for a mandatory repair.
Here are 3 ways a savvy Realtor® can sell the seemingly unsalable property:
- For vacant homes that still hold the owners’ contents, on island companies are available who will strip it clean and haul away everything, thereby providing a “blank slate.” The current owner(s) or estate trustee will hopefully be able to pay for this valuable service, or an arrangement may be made whereby the company is paid out of the proceeds of the sale.
- For properties currently occupied, virtual photo enhancement is a great option! Realtors® who are serious about providing the very best service to their clients, hire professional photographers to capture all that a property offers to potential buyers. These photos can then be digitally enhanced to show updated paint, furnishings, fixtures, and appliances. Fresh landscaping can be provided, views improved, cars and junk removed, etc. This is a game changer in many instances!
- Price will always be a key factor. The seller must price the property in accordance with its condition. Where applicable, currently sold properties within the market area that are similar in acreage and home size will provide a good idea as to the base price. Then, an honest listing price can be set based on what the new owner will need to spend to bring the property to a safe and livable condition.
Here’s the great news…
There is a buyer for every property! Staying open minded, thinking both inside and outside the box, and working with a qualified and experienced Realtor® are the keys to success, whether selling a serious fixer upper or a beautifully maintained home and property.
