OC Realty Blog

At the top of the most frequently asked questions’ list is, “How will we know when the market has ‘bottomed out’ and we should buy a home?”Historically, two major indicators that a market has bottomed out are: a decline in the number of listings and an increase in listing and sold prices. Obviously the key here is making your move at the right time-which would be right before these two items begin to manifest in the market.

Based on sales data provided by MLSs, it appears that we are beginning to realize a slight decline in listing volume. I say “appears” because with the factors affecting the market today-and the foreseeable future-this may be a seasonal issue or being caused by any number of things.

Tracking the listing volume over the next several months will provide additional information regarding this question. In regard to sold prices, this is more difficult. Real estate-owned property or property in some stage of the foreclosure process has been driving the price point for real estate for some time now. 

With a significant volume of lending institution-owned property on the market selling at what historically, could be viewed as discounted prices, we do not anticipate seeing an increase in sales prices in the near future.

With sales showing increases compared to last year in most areas and declines in listing volume, it would appear that the market is slowly changing from the buyer’s market we have experienced for the past several years.

However, a point to keep in mind is that self respect and common sense should remain at the top of everyone’s list. This has been-and remains to be-the basis of business success.

RIS Media, Walt Baczkowski, 8/5/08

When selling real estate, many sellers want to know how long their home will take to sell.

If you’re interested in getting an estimate on how much time to plan for your next South Orange County real estate move, please call or email me. I would be happy to provide you with an updated market evaluation for your home and discuss a timeline that will work for you, so you can accomplish your moving goals.

Pricing Your Property:

Determinng price is one of the most critical steps in preparing your home for sale.  A well priced home often sells quickly once it is put on the market.

When your home is priced right from the outset, you maximize your opportunity of reaching the most qualified buyers and obtaining top dollar.

Pricing your home correctly:

• Can save you thousands of dollars on your family’s largest investment.
• Reduces risk because overpriced homes may eliminate some buyers if it is out of their price range.
• Optimizes traffic during the first peak weeks on the market.
• Ensures that other agents will show the home.
• Is good when it comes time to appraise.  Your home must appraise at the selling price for the buyer to get financing.

When I see your home and prepare a more complete and thorough market evaluation, I will use my knowledge of recent home sales and your neighborhood to help you price your home correctly. 

If you live in the Orange County California area, just give me a call or email for your FREE Home Valuation.  When you price your home for the current market conditions, it well sell in a reasonable amount of time and interest those buying real estate.

Whether you’re selling real estate in South Orange County California or anywhere in the nation, one of the top five factors that make your home sell is Curb Appeal! 

Most of us know it when we see it -– the house in the neighborhood that catches your attention each time you drive past it. The owners obviously care about their home and it shows in the details that are noticeable even to someone passing by in a car. Yes, this house has curb appeal, and if you’re going to place your home on the market, you’ll want to create curb appeal too. And if you’re buying a home, most often you look for curb appeal, otherwise you may not even bother to look inside!Great curb appeal is created through details, especially the walkway, lighting and landscaping. If it seems like it would be difficult to approach your home, make it more welcoming by keeping your walkways clean and clutter-free. Trim back the overhanging trees or bushes.

If you’re thinking of selling your home and would like additional tips on creating curb appeal, don’t hesitate to call or email me.

What’s the best way to help your home make a great first impression on would-be buyers? Real estate experts agree that “staging” your home to show it in the most favorable light is well worth your time and effort.Beyond the pre-sale cleaning and organizing you would expect to do, successful staging includes strategically arranging objects and furniture, adding decorative touches and more. Here are a few tips from the pros to help buyers make an immediate emotional connection with your home:

Whether you do the staging yourself or have your home done by a professional, area experts say that homes that are staged often sell 75% faster and for 5-10% higher than the asking price!

If you need more information about staging your home, you can call or email me.  I’m your resource for valuable staging ideas and referrals to professional stagers in the South Orange County California area.

As a seller, you need you make your home look and, believe it or not, smell the best to outshine the competition.  First impressions are key! 

1. Make the front entrance inviting.

Potential buyers often drive by before deciding they want to see the inside of the house, so make sure the front door area looks nice. 

2. Clear away clutter.

Put away personal photos, knickknacks, boxes – anything that will distract the buyer from concentrating on the house.  Also clear paper & closet clutter. 

3. Clean the house thoroughly.

Take the time to make the bathrooms sparkle, wash the windows, and clean appliances, fixtures, blinds, & staircase.  Don’t forget under the sinks. 

4. Freshen the appearance of rooms.

A little paint can go a long way in making your home sellable.  Repaint the rooms in a neutral color to make them look clean & fresh.  Paint the exterior if needed. 

5. Arrange the furniture for spaciousness.

Remove extra, unwanted furniture and arrange remaining pieces in a way that creates smooth traffic flow. 

6. Do all you can to reduce odors.

People never forget smells when they walk in the door.  Try your best to remove odors caused by pets, smoking, & cooking. 

7. Perform minor repairs if necessary.

Take a hard look around your home and see it from a buyer’s perspective:  oil door and window hinges, fix loose handrails, repair walls, replace broken tile, etc. 

8. Replace outdated lighting & plumbing fixtures.

Replacing old, worn out fixtures with new ones gives you a lot of bang for the buck. 

9. Clean the carpeting.

Unless it is extremely worn, you may be able to avoid replacing carpet.  Buyers often prefer to choose they own carpet or opt for hardwood floors.   

10. Don’t forget the garage.

It’s tempting to stash things away in this area of the home, but when you’re selling, the garage has to be neat & clean too.