Courtesy of The Philadelphia Inquirer
Spring, is traditionally, the best time to buy or sell real estate, even through the downturn. Al Heavens from The Philadelphia Inquirer writes about how to set the stage for a home sale. For sellers, it is time for real estate theater; the house is the star. “The cast includes agents and brokers, home inspectors, title people, mortgage companies, lenders, underwriters and, obviously, buyers.” Some sellers are very hands on, while others do not want to bother with the day to day. Paul Leiser of Avalon Real Estate in New Jersey said he believes that the internet has empowered the sellers and buyers. Realtors are dealing with more informed involvement on both buyers and sellers, so confrontation can be minimized if an agent keeps the seller informed. Sellers seem open to agent’s suggestions, the home staging will be up to the owner rather than the agent. The seller who thinks he or she knows all may end up disappointed and a house that sells for less. The house should be available for showings but at no point should the seller enter into conversation with potential buyers, the agents, appraiser, or home inspector. The job of the agent is to educate the buyer and seller on the present climate and conditions.