An open house is one of the greatest opportunities home buyers have to look around, visualize themselves living in the house and, most importantly, ask questions about the property. Sometimes they come with their agent, ready to put an offer in on a home that they love. Others come alone, trying to get an idea of what they do and don’t like. Regardless of their agent status, they will come with lots of questions about your home. While buyers will ask about the actual layout and physical characteristics of a home, as the home seller, be aware of several other common questions they may ask your real estate agent.
How Many Bids Have You Received?
When a buyer shows up to a home staging, they will likely have a good idea of your asking price. However, they may ask straightforward questions to help them gauge the true price at which you will really sell your home. For example, you may need to be prepared to disclose the number of bids you have received. Don’t be worried if your home hasn’t had any bids after being on the market for just a few days. Remember, if you don’t feel comfortable answering the questions, you can always defer them to your agent.
Why Are You Moving?
A buyer may ask your real estate agent why you are selling a home. Is it the neighborhood, the schools, the house itself? Your agent is not required to share this information, but if they do, it can give a potential buyer a feel for where you stand. If you need to sell the property in a hurry, this could change how much a buyer offers to pay or how quickly he or she decides to make an offer, so it may be wise to offer this information.
Are There Additional Homeownership Costs or Special Rules?
Be prepared to explain any additional costs associated with purchasing the home you are selling, including fees or dues that come with certain properties. For example, if your home is located in a planned community, list the amount the buyer would need to pay for the association dues, additional taxes and other fees. Informing buyers of any neighborhood costs may play a role in their final decision to purchase the home or pass on the offer. In the Nevada County area, we have two major gated communities that have HOAs: Lake Wildwood and Lake of the Pines. Make sure to also provide information about special regulations if the home you are selling is in a property like a condominium complex. Your real estate agent can normally provide details about communities that have special rules regarding pets or parking to any potential buyers.
Looking to buy or sell in the Nevada County area? Give a Coldwell Banker agent a call today!
