Hard Sell!

Many of our listings come from individuals who thought they had sold their homes. Sellers who try to sell their own home learn the hard way that selling a home is not easy, and keeping it sold and getting to the closing table is even more difficult. What are the pitfalls involved in selling your own home?

First, face-to-face negotiations can be difficult, even when the buyer really wants the house. Then there is the paperwork. Standard contract forms rarely cover all of the local requirements regarding disclosure laws. Such contracts may create loopholes which could allow a buyer with cold feet to back out at the last minute. When you have finally come to an agreement, how can you be sure that your buyers will find competent professionals to handle their loan and complete the closing? What if structural problems are discovered or property boundary problems are revealed? The experience and expertise of a professional Realtor is needed to conclude a successful transaction!

Most home purchase agreements have clauses that deal with termites. After the agreement is ratified, a termite inspection is arranged. Before the closing can occur, the sellers must be able to produce papers signed by a licensed exterminator stating that the house is free of infestation and any termite damage has been repaired.

Before you sign an agreement to buy or sell a home, you should read the termite clause and be sure that you understand it. Who selects the exterminator and pays for the inspection? If bugs are found, who pays for the treatment? Are the sellers obligated to repair any damage and have they placed a limit of the dollar amount they will spend on those repairs? If treatment is required, the buyers may want a chance to discuss the options with the pest control company, especially if someone in the family is sensitive to the chemicals used to control the termites. Ask about the exterminator's guarantees or service contract options.

For professional advice on all aspects of buying and selling real estate call Juniper Realty, 781-769-4818 or email us at juniperrealty@aol.com