Selling in West Michigan

First of all, Congrats!

What an exciting adventure you’re about to go on!

I’m sure you’ve heard, we are in a stabilizing real estate market here in West Michigan.

It is still a great time to sell, but the hyper-appreciation that we’ve seen the last two years is beginning to slow for our region.

Our Locally-focused Agents use neighborhood level data and a robust marketing plan to suggest a list price that reflects the current market and make sure your listing gets in-front of as many potential buyers as possible.

Whether you are looking to move up, move out of the area, or downsize we would love to sit down to discuss your goals and what selling in this market looks like!

How you can get started now

Check out your mortgage statement for your most recent principal loan.

Start the process of decluttering. This one can take some time so give yourself grace and time to complete this.

Meet with an Agent early in your decision-making process – even if it isn’t for another 9 months.

Set expectations, but let an agent help you. They will give you the correct expectations so that you aren’t let down.

Questions about selling your house? We've got answers!

As the property owner you are able to selling your house without a real estate agent. In the state of Michigan you can sell up to 5 homes a year before you are required to get a real estate license to practice real estate.

If you choose to sell by owner you will market the property online, coordinate showings, negotiate with buyers and their agents, hire your closing company and handle the offer and disclosure paperwork. 

If you are considering selling by owner to save on fees, a 2017 National study revealed the average home sold with a Realtor sold for 24% more than the average by owner sale.

Selling a house “as is” means offering the property in its current condition without making any repairs or renovations. People may choose this option to avoid the time and cost of fixing up the house. However, selling “as is” could attract buyers looking for a bargain or investors willing to take on the renovation work themselves.

If you don’t have the time or energy to put any work into your house, do not fret. We sell houses as-is all the time and can navigate this process for you!

When selling a house, various costs come into play. Common expenses include real estate agent commissions, title search and insurance, home repairs (if not selling “as is”), staging costs, and marketing expenses. It’s essential to budget for these costs to calculate your potential profit accurately.

In some cases, the real estate agent will cover marketing and staging expenses. You will want to talk that through with your agent beforehand to get a better idea.

Typically, both the buyer and the seller have closing costs to cover during the property transfer process. The division of these costs varies depending on the negotiations and local customs. In some cases, sellers may agree to pay a portion of the buyer’s closing costs to facilitate the sale.

If you need to move but can’t sell your house, you have a few options. Consider renting out the property to cover the mortgage while you’re away. Alternatively, you could consult a real estate agent to reassess your selling strategy or explore the possibility of a lease-to-own agreement with potential buyers.

Several factors influence how fast a house sells. Factors such as pricing, curb appeal, updated interiors, great online marketing, and having a strong local real estate market will impact sale time. Additionally, offering incentives or seller financing might attract more buyers.

Technically, you can sell a house without an inspection. However, it’s not recommended, as an inspection helps identify potential issues with the property. Buyers often request inspections to ensure they are making a sound investment. Providing an inspection report upfront could increase buyer confidence and streamline the selling process.

Selling a house can be a stressful experience. To navigate the process, consider hiring a professional real estate agent who can handle the majority of the process for you. Additionally, practice self-care, maintain open communication with the agent, and set realistic expectations throughout the selling journey.

The tax implications of selling a house depend on various factors, including the property’s value, how long you owned it, and your tax filing status. In many cases, homeowners may be eligible for a capital gains tax exclusion on the profit made from the sale. However, it’s advisable to consult a tax professional for personalized advice.

Selling a house to a family member can have some differences compared to a standard sale. For instance, you might choose to sell the property at a discounted price or with unique financing arrangements. However, it’s essential to approach such transactions with care and consult legal and financial experts to ensure a smooth process.

If you need to sell your house to pay off debt, prioritize getting the best possible price for your property. Work with a skilled real estate agent to maximize the sale price and expedite the process. Consider downsizing or finding more affordable housing options to help clear your debt effectively.

No, you don’t necessarily need to sell your current house to buy another. If you have the financial capacity, you might qualify for a new mortgage while still owning your current property. However, this decision depends on your financial situation, mortgage terms, and lender requirements.

Deciding whether to sell or rent out your house depends on your financial goals and circumstances. Selling provides immediate access to funds, while renting offers ongoing rental income and potential property appreciation. Evaluate your long-term plans and consult with a real estate professional to make an informed decision.

Houses selling quickly can result from several factors, such as a robust real estate market, high demand for properties, low inventory, attractive pricing, and effective marketing strategies. It’s essential to strike a balance between supply and demand to facilitate quick sales.

Deciding whether to sell your house depends on your individual circumstances, financial goals, and future plans. Evaluate your current housing needs, the local real estate market conditions, and consult with a real estate agent to assess the potential selling price and other relevant factors to make an informed decision.

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