Is an Older Home the Right Home for You?
While you may not be interested in purchasing an older home, when a property comes on the market that’s perfect in every other way, it may be difficult to resist. Older homes have a charm that many find alluring. Often they are located in attractive, mature neighbourhoods with well-established demographics.
So, should you worry about buying an older home?
Generally, no. However, you do need to do some extra due diligence.
First of all, always get a professional home inspection completed. An inspector will uncover issues that you won’t see when simply viewing a property fro sale. For example, your inspector might find old wiring, or perhaps an aging furnace that will soon need replacing, or any number of issues that might be of concern.
Secondly, find out if there are any changes planned to the neighbourhood, such as a new development starting nearby. You don’t want to think you’re moving into a quiet, older area only to discover a new community centre is going to be built just two blocks away!
Usually, buying an older property works out well, especially if it’s ideal for you in other ways. Just remember that your realtor (that’s me) is here to help you through every step of the buying process, to make sure that you end up as happy as you can be with your new (to you) property.
Tips to Make Selling Your Home Easier
When you’re selling your home, it’s natural to want the process to go as smoothly and easily as possible. Ideally, you want to have a great experience from start to finish. So how do you accomplish that?
Well, here are a few things that you can do:
Clearly understand the steps and milestones in the home-selling process
The more you know what to expect, the less stressed you’ll be. Plus, you will be able to anticipate what’s likely to happen next, and plan accordingly. Part of the service that I provide is sitting down with you to explain this process, and make sure that all of your questions are answered.
Keep a calendar that everyone in your family can see
The refrigerator door is the ideal spot for this. Clearly mark important appointments and all scheduled viewings on this calendar.
Be flexible when it comes to scheduling viewings
Remember that the sooner interested buyers can see your property, the sooner you’ll get an offer.
Consider hiring a cleaning service temporarily
That way, you won’t have to scramble to prepare your home for a viewing or an open house.
If you have pets, consider putting them in a kennel or with a pet sitter during viewings
Check out local kennels early in the process so you know you’re sending your pet to a place you can trust, and also where they can take your pet last minute.
Accept the inevitable ups and downs of selling your home
For example, a buyer may show a lot of interest but, for whatever reason, never make an offer. On the other hand, you could get an offer fro someone who barely went further than inside your front foyer. It happens!
If possible, avoid planning major events during the selling process
This is especially true for big family get-togethers or weddings, which may involve the use of your home.
Finally, make sure that you use your realtor (again, that’s me) to guide you through the entire process of selling your property. That’s what I’m here for, and I’m always more than happy to answer any questions that arise, and to reassure you that everything will work out for the best in the end.
Thinking of listing your home, condo or cottage for sale? Give me a call first. I look forward to hearing from you!
Paul Attard. Your Real Estate Advisor For Life!
705-750-5577
