Why Selling Your House with a Real Estate Professional Is Essential

Why Selling Your House with a Real Estate Professional Is Essential | Simplifying The Market

Selling your house is no simple task. And when you sell on your own – known as a FSBO (or For Sale by Owner) – you’re responsible for handling some of the more difficult aspects of the process without the expert guidance you need.

The 2021 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) surveys homeowners who recently sold their house on their own and asks what difficulties they faced. Those sellers say some of the biggest headaches are prepping their house for sale, pricing it right, and handling the required paperwork.

Working with an agent is the best way to ensure you have an expert on your side to guide you at every turn. Agents have the skills and knowledge that are essential to navigating each step with ease, efficiency, and accuracy. Here are just a few things a real estate agent will do to make sure you get the most out of your sale.

1. Make the Best First Impression

Selling your house requires a significant amount of time and effort. Doing it right takes expertise and an understanding of today’s buyers. Your agent knows the answers to common questions, such as:

  • Do I need to take down my personal art?
  • How much landscaping does my house need?
  • What colors should I paint my walls?

Your time and money are important, and you don’t want to waste either one focusing on the wrong things. A real estate advisor relies on their experience to answer these questions and more, allowing you to make the right investments to prep your house before you list.

2. Maximize Your Buyer Pool – and Your Sale

Today, the average home is getting 3.6 offers per sale according to recent data from NAR. That’s great news if you’re planning to sell, since the more offers you receive, the more likely you are to sell your house in a bidding war, and for a higher price.

Real estate agents have an assortment of tools at their disposal, like social media followers and agency resources, that will ensure your house is viewed by the most buyers. Without access to these tools and your agent’s marketing expertise, your buyer pool – and your home’s selling potential – is limited.

3. Understand the Documentation, Including the Fine Print

Today, when a house is sold, more disclosures and regulations are mandatory, meaning the number of legal documents to juggle is growing. It’s hard to understand all the requirements and fine print (especially if you’re not an expert). That’s why your advisor is an invaluable guide.

Your agent knows exactly what needs to happen, what all the paperwork means, and can work through it efficiently. They’ll help you review the documentation and avoid any costly missteps that could happen if you tackle it on your own.

4. Act as Your Expert Negotiator

If you sell without an agent, you’ll also be solely responsible for all negotiations. That means you have to coordinate with:

  • The buyer, who wants the best deal possible
  • The buyer’s agent, who will use their expertise to advocate for the buyer
  • The inspection company, which works for the buyer and will almost always find concerns with the house
  • The appraiser, who assesses the property’s value to protect the lender

Instead of going toe-to-toe with all these parties alone, lean on an expert. Your agent relies on experience and training to make the right moves throughout the negotiation. They’ll know what levers to pull, how to address each individual concern, and when you may want to get a second opinion. When you sell your house yourself, you’ll need to be prepared to have these conversations on your own.

5. Price It Right

Real estate professionals have the expertise to price your house accurately and competitively. To do so, they compare your house to recently sold homes in your area and factor in the current condition of your house. These factors are key to making sure your house is priced to move quickly and get you the maximum return on your investment.

When you sell as a FSBO, you’re operating without this advantage. That could cost you in the long run if you price your house too high or too low.

Bottom Line

There’s a lot that goes into selling your house, and it takes time, effort, and expertise to truly maximize your sale. Instead of tackling it alone, let’s connect to make sure you have an expert on your side.

The Legend Of The Michigan Dogman May Send Chills Down Your Spine

No matter what the season, there’s something gleefully spooky about indulging in an eerie local legend. The Great Lakes State is home to its fair share of scary stories and ghostly tales, but one legend in Michigan is decidedly unique. Whether or not you believe in the supernatural, the story of the Michigan Dogman might just have you keeping your eyes peeled during future outings.

Do you know anyone who claims to have spotted the Michigan Dogman? Have you experienced any other eerie or supernatural moments that you’d like to share? Let us know by leaving a Facebook comment or tell us about another incredible legend in Michigan by filling out our official nomination form here.

For a slightly less spooky piece of the past, read about this historic German restaurant in Michigan.

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The Little-Known Historic Farmstead In Michigan You Can Reach By Hiking This 1.5-Mile Trail

For Michiganders who appreciate both history and outdoor recreation, our state offers much to love. From longstanding lighthouses to abandoned buildings in the woods, there are plenty of unique destinations that combine the best of both worlds. One underrated and truly special farmstead trail in Michigan provides visitors with a glimpse into local agricultural history alongside stunning natural features. You’ll wonder why it took you so long to check out this amazing space.

For additional information about this wonderful farmstead trail in Michigan, click here. Have you and your loved ones taken a stroll around the remaining buildings and forested sections within DeYoung Natural Area? Share your favorite memories with us by leaving a Facebook comment or recommend another underrated hike by filling out our official nomination form here.

If you’re looking for even more adventure, be sure to read about this wonderful and iconic scenic drive in Michigan.

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Expert Insights on the 2022 Housing Market

Expert Insights on the 2022 Housing Market | Simplifying The Market

As we move into 2022, both buyers and sellers are wondering, what’s next? Will there be more homes available to buy? Will prices keep climbing? How high will mortgage rates go? For the answer to those questions and more, we turn to the experts. Here’s a look at what they say we can expect in 2022.

Odeta Kushi, Deputy Chief Economist, First American:

“Consensus forecasts put rates at about 3.7% by the end of next year. So, that’s still historically low, but certainly higher than they are today.”

Danielle Hale, Chief Economist, realtor.com:

Affordability will increasingly be a challenge as interest rates and prices rise, but remote work may expand search areas and enable younger buyers to find their first homes sooner than they might have otherwise. And with more than 45 million millennials within the prime first-time buying ages of 26-35 heading into 2022, we expect the market to remain competitive.”

Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist, National Association of Realtors (NAR):

“With more housing inventory to hit the market, the intense multiple offers will start to ease. Home prices will continue to rise but at a slower pace.”

George Ratiu, Manager of Economic Research, realtor.com:

“We also expect a growing number of homeowners to bring properties to market, taking some pressure off high prices and offering buyers more options.”

Mark Fleming, Chief Economist, First American:

Strong demographic demand will continue to act as the wind in the housing market’s sails.”

What Does This Mean for Buyers?

Hope is on the horizon for 2022. You should see your options grow as more homes are listed and some of the peak intensity of buyer competition starts to ease. Just remember, rising rates and prices are a great motivator for you to find the home of your dreams sooner rather than later so you can buy while today’s affordability is still in your favor.

What Does This Mean for Sellers?

Make no mistake – this sellers’ market will remain in 2022 as home prices are projected to continue climbing, just at a more moderate pace. Selling your house while buyer demand is so high will truly put you in the driver’s seat. But don’t wait too long. With more listings projected to become available, your ideal window of opportunity to stand out from the crowd won’t last forever. Work with an agent who knows your local market and current inventory conditions to ensure you have the support you need to make an educated and informed decision about selling in the coming year.

Bottom Line

If you’re thinking of buying or selling, 2022 may be your year. Let’s connect to discuss your goals and the unique opportunities you have in today’s housing market.

6 Amazing Treetop Adventures You Can Only Have In Michigan

Are you ready to step off the ground and appreciate some of the most magical treetop adventures in Michigan? Whether you’re enjoying a zip line tour, exploring a canopy walk, or riding a chairlift among our state’s marvelous surroundings, nothing beats a fresh-air excursion high above the terrain below. When you’re ready to plan your next high-flying outing, keep these six fun options in mind.

Have you been lucky enough to check out any of these treetop adventures in Michigan? Did we leave any of your favorite above-the-ground excursions off our list? We’re always eager to hear from you, so drop us a line in the Facebook comments or recommend another must-visit spot by filling out our nomination form here.

If you’re enamored with our state’s natural beauty, you’ll want to read about this stunning sunrise beach in Michigan.

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The Largest Game and Comic Book Store In Michigan Has More Than 177,000 Collectibles

You don’t have to be a bonafide gamer to have a blast exploring one of the largest stores in Michigan. Whether you’re searching for the perfect gift, on the lookout for a great board game, or eager to pick up a few pop culture items, one destination here in the Great Lakes State will keep you entertained. Be sure to set aside a solid chunk of time when you drop by: this spot might just keep you perusing for hours.

For additional information about this destination in the Great Lakes State, which proudly claims the title of one of the largest stores in Michigan, click here. Have you shopped at GOB Retail during previous outings? Share your favorite finds with us by leaving a Facebook comment or recommend another fun shop by completing our official nomination form here.

If you’d prefer to spend your time enjoying the great outdoors, read about this unique four-bridge park in Michigan.

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The 7 Very Best Milkshakes You Can Possibly Find In Detroit

If you think milkshakes are only appropriate during the warmer months, think again. We firmly believe that these delicious and refreshing treats can be enjoyed in every season, whether it’s scorching hot or bone-chillingly cold. When you’re on the hunt for a sugary-sweet delight, you’ll undoubtedly want to read about the seven best milkshakes in Detroit and its surrounding areas, which can be found at the following eateries and shops:

While we hope you appreciated our selections, we realize that it would be impossible to acknowledge each and every wonderful milkshake option within Metro Detroit. Did we leave any of your favorites off our list? Share your thoughts with us by leaving a Facebook comment or make official recommendations for the best milkshakes in Detroit by completing our nomination form here.

Still feeling hungry? You’ll want to read our previous piece about the best neighborhood restaurants in Detroit.

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5 Tips for Making Your Best Offer on a Home

5 Tips for Making Your Best Offer on a Home | Simplifying The Market

As a buyer in a sellers’ market, sometimes it can feel like you’re stuck between a rock and a hard place. When you’re ready to make an offer on a home, remember these five easy tips to help you rise above the competition.

1. Know Your Budget

Knowing your budget and what you can afford is critical to your success as a homebuyer. The best way to understand your numbers is to work with a lender so you can get pre-approved for a loan. As Freddie Mac puts it:

“This pre-approval allows you to look for a home with greater confidence and demonstrates to the seller that you are a serious buyer.”

Showing sellers you’re serious can give you a competitive edge, and it helps you act quickly when you’ve found your perfect home.

2. Be Ready To Move Fast

Homes are selling quickly in today’s competitive housing market. According to the Existing Home Sales Report from the National Association of Realtors (NAR):

“Eighty-three percent of homes sold in November 2021 were on the market for less than a month.”

When houses are selling this fast, staying on top of the market and moving quickly are key. Your agent can help you put together and submit your best offer as soon as you find the home you want to buy.

3. Lean on a Real Estate Professional

No matter what the housing market looks like, rely on a trusted real estate advisor. As Freddie Mac also notes:

“The success of your homebuying journey largely depends on the company you keep. . . . Be sure to select experienced, trusted professionals who will help you make informed decisions and avoid any pitfalls.”

Agents are experts in the local real estate market. They have insight into what’s worked for other buyers in your area and what sellers may be looking for in an offer. It may seem simple, but catering to what a seller needs can help your offer stand out.

4. Make a Strong, but Fair Offer

According to the latest Realtors Confidence Index from NAR, 40% of offers today are above the list price. In such a competitive market, emotions and prices can run high. Having an agent to help you submit a strong, yet fair offer is critical in these situations. Your agent can help you understand the market value of the home and recent sales trends in the area.

5. Be a Flexible Negotiator

When putting together an offer, your trusted real estate advisor will help you consider which levers you can pull, including contract contingencies (conditions you set that the seller must meet for the purchase to be finalized). Of course, there are certain contingencies you don’t want to give up. Freddie Mac explains:

“Resist the temptation to waive the inspection contingency, especially in a hot market or if the home is being sold ‘as-is’, which means the seller won’t pay for repairs. Without an inspection contingency, you could be stuck with a contract on a house you can’t afford to fix.”

Bottom Line

Today’s competitive landscape makes it more important than ever to make a strong offer on a home. Let’s connect to make sure you rise to the top along the way.

7 Winter Attractions For The Family In Detroit That Don’t Involve Long Lines At The Mall

The winter months are full of hustle and bustle here in Motor City and its surrounding areas. Even when Christmas has passed, shopping centers are packed with belated gift-buyers, folks returning those ill-fitting holiday sweaters, and eager young people spending their gifted money. If you’re hoping to avoid large crowds, long lines, and seasonal stress, here are seven must-visit winter attractions in Detroit and its neighboring towns.

Have you and your loved ones explored any of these wholesome and fun winter attractions in Detroit? Did we leave any of your favorites off our list? We always appreciate hearing from you, so share your thoughts with us in the Facebook comments or recommend another seasonal outing in the Motor City by completing our official nomination form here.

Searching for another unique destination? Read about this indoor farmers market near Detroit.

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Take A Weekend To Wine, Dine, And Explore The Little Switzerland Of Michigan

Who says you have to hop on an airplane or drop hundreds of dollars to make a journey to Europe? While there’s something special about making a genuine overseas journey, those of us who call Michigan home are lucky enough to have access to multiple European-inspired communities. One such spot offers visitors the chance to experience Swiss culture and charm without leaving the Great Lakes State. Head to the Little Switzerland of Michigan for an unforgettable adventure.

For additional information about the Little Switzerland of Michigan, click here. Have you and your family visited Gaylord for a special event or a weekend getaway during previous outings? Share your experiences with us by leaving a Facebook comment or recommend another unique Michigan town by completing our official nomination form here.

If you’re looking for another enchanting place to explore, be sure to read about this castle museum in Michigan.

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