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What to Do When Your Home Gets a Lowball Offer
When selling your home, you may run into an offer, or a lowball offer, that fall far below your asking price. These low offers may only serve to make you angry, but don’t get angry! While selling your home is an emotional process, there are rational and effective strategies for dealing with a lowball offer. Sometimes a lowball offer can even turn into the right price if you handle negotiations the right way.
TIPS FOR RESPONDING TO LOWBALL OFFERS
1. Remain calm. Although your first reaction to a lowball offer may be anger or disgust, take a breath and remain calm. There is nothing to gain in making enemies.
2. Understand that sometimes buyers aren’t familiar with actual market value. They may be from somewhere where homes are much less expensive, or they could be first-time buyers who have been counseled by friends and family to start with a lowball offer.
3. Have your agent communicate that while you’re happy to work with them as buyers, you’ll need an offer that is somewhat more competitive and at a level you could consider seriously. When responding, remember that “you can catch more flies with sugar and honey than with vinegar.”
4. Consider countering for a small amount off your asking price to signal your willingness to negotiate, but reiterate that you will need to hear something more in line with market value to continue negotiations.
5. Alternately, if you are in a hurry to sell, counter with your rock-bottom offer. This number may not be close to their lowball, but it could be substantially less than your listing price. This may make the lowball buyer suddenly reconsider their position, tempted by the opportunity to purchase the property at what they consider to be a “substantial discount.”
6. Ask the buyer to justify their price. If they genuinely believe their offer is genuine and fair, they should be able to point to reasons why your listing price is inflated. Make them show their homework. If they haven’t done it, you’ll know soon enough.
7. Don’t fall for the “but we can’t afford more” pity play. Sympathize with their financial situation, but in no way let it sway you from the true value of your home.
To steer clear of lowball offers, don’t appear desperate. In your home’s descriptions, you may have listed yourself as a “motivated” seller. This will open yourself up to buyers believing that they can get away with purchasing your home for a discount.
Of course, sometimes, a stream of lowball offers can indicate that the home is priced too high. Occasionally agents will “buy the listing” by assuring sellers they can get the higher price, only to take a lower offer much later down the line. It’s not a sound strategy that I would recommend. If you’re looking for the fair market value of your home, get in touch with me today.
Keri Johnson
(928) 642-3823
Should You Fix Up Your Home Before Selling
Homeowners deciding to sell their home can wonder if they should fix up their house before selling it or allow a potential buyer to do the updates and remodeling. Whether you decide to repair your house before selling it or go straight to the market as-is, each decision has pros and cons.
Consider the Current Market Conditions
The most imperative thing to consider is the current market conditions. During the pandemic, homes were selling like hotcakes. The real estate market was exploding due to record-low mortgage rates. Now with a rise in mortgage rates, buyers’ demand has moderated. Therefore, as a seller in the current market, updating your home can help cultivate more buyers for your home, and consequently, you may get a higher sale price.
Will the Repairs and Improvements Increase my Home Value?
When selling a home, it’s important to remember that you will likely have to spend money on repairs to get top dollar for your home. However, the main question from homeowners is, will these repairs improve my home’s value? There is no definitive answer. Some repairs will undoubtedly increase the value of your home more than others, but it depends on the individual property and the market at the time of sale. Generally speaking, however, making any repair will usually result in a higher selling price than if the property were to be sold “as is.”
Popular Home Improvements
Making minor repairs around the house will go a long way, although it is good to remember that not all repairs are necessary. Here are a few of the most popular home improvements that may increase the value of a property:
- Paint and Flooring: A fresh coat of paint and new flooring will almost always increase the value of a house.
- Kitchen Upgrades: Replacing old appliances, countertops, cabinets, and fixtures may significantly improve the value of a home.
- Bathroom Upgrades: Installing new tiles or fixtures can help add extra appeal to the home’s bathrooms.
- Landscaping Improvements: Curb appeal is significant when selling a home, so adding landscaping improvements can make all the difference.
Ultimately, deciding whether to fix up your house before selling it or sell now as-is is an individual decision that depends on various factors such as market conditions and budget. If selling your home as-is without making any repairs, make sure you are transparent with potential buyers. Tell them what they can expect when they buy the house, and be sure to have a realistic price point in mind.
To sum it up, homeowners deciding whether to repair their homes before sale must consider the current market conditions and potential for improvement in value. While some repairs will undoubtedly increase the price of a property, other repairs may be unnecessary, depending on each case. It is essential to consult with a real estate professional who can analyze current market conditions and provide guidance on how best to sell your home. Contact me today for more information on how I can help you through this process!
Upcoming Prescott Events this Holiday Season!
Are you looking for something fun to do this holiday season? Check out the events happening in Prescott, AZ! There’s something for everyone, so get out and enjoy the festivities. From tree lightings to parades to performances, you’re sure to find something that will get you into the holiday spirit. So mark your calendar and get ready for a festive time in Prescott!
HELLO, DOLLY! starring Toni Tennille | Nov. 3-20
“Pop legend Toni Tennille takes the Prescott stage as the mischievous 19th century matchmaker Dolly Levi, who turns New York City on its ear juggling young love, old money, adventure, joy, and loneliness “before the parade passes by.” Presented by Yavapai College Performing Arts Department, under the direction of Dr. Craig J. Ralston and Scottie Scott.” LEARN MORE.
30th Annual Gingerbread Village | Nov. 25 – Jan. 1
“The Prescott Resort & Conference Center invites you to join us for the 30th Annual Gingerbread Village. Get in the holiday spirit this year and make plans now with your co-workers, family and friends and build a cottage, a bungalow or estate! Applications are now being accepted! Proceeds benefit Hungry Kids project in Prescott.” LEARN MORE.
Valley of Lights | Nov. 21 – Dec. 30
“Drive through the one mile displays of holiday lights. Valley of Lights opens on Thanksgiving night and is open every night through December 30th.” LEARN MORE.
Prescott Christmas Parade & Courthouse Lighting| Dec. 3 at 1pm
“The Prescott Chamber of Commerce and presenting sponsor, Findlay Auto Group proudly present the 40th Annual Christmas Parade in downtown Prescott. This year’s theme is ‘A Superhero Christmas.’ Kick in the Holiday Season with over 100 entries for the whole family to enjoy! The Annual Courthouse Lighting Event will be held following the parade at 6:00 pm.” LEARN MORE.
Acker Night Musical Showcase | Dec. 9 – 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm
“This is a FREE downtown event for everyone. The streets in downtown Prescott are closed and the businesses open their doors for a few hours for this wonderful evening event. The Christmas lights are gleaming and music fills the air for this special time. All the “tips for Scholarships” donations go to Yavapai County school age children for music lessons to those that may not otherwise get that chance. Depending on how much is donated year to year, we also donate to our school district’s music department since the arts are the first to get budget cuts. We also with donations permitting, have repaired local school music departments, sent special musicians and groups on to bigger competitions and have purchased or given instruments for those in need.” LEARN MORE.
So get out and enjoy all that Prescott has to offer this time of year. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Protect Yourself During an Open House.
Open houses are a fantastic marketing tool for selling your home. A successful open house creates a network of awareness around your listing. Unfortunately, you must be cautious about potential thieves. Use the few tips to protect yourself during an open house.
9 Things to Remove From Your Home
- Important documents: Ensure your personal information is secure by removing your social security number and driver’s license from your home. Important documents also included birth certificates, marriage licenses, and passports.
- Passwords: Remove any passwords you have written down and stored in your home. This includes computer passwords, Wi-Fi passwords, etc.
- Jewelry: Any jewelry or other valuables should be removed from your home before an open house. Even if you have a secure place to store them, it’s best to be cautious and take them with you.
- Medications: Medications and prescriptions must be removed from the cupboards and medicine cabinets.
- Spare Keys: You should never leave spare keys lying around your home. If you have a spare key, either give it to your real estate agent or hide it in a safe place.
- Firearms: Guns, firearms, and ammunition should be removed from the home.
- Heirlooms: Heirlooms and other family treasures should be kept safe and out of sight.
- Extra Cash: Remove extra cash from your home.
- Animals: If you have any pets, make arrangements for them to be out of the house during the open house.
Tips for a Successful Open House
With your items secure, what other steps create a successful open house?
- Create a Welcoming Atmosphere: The goal is to make buyers feel at home as soon as they step into your house. This means decluttering and adding some personal touches. Included with the valuable items we listed above, also remove religious or political items. You want buyers to be able to see themselves in your home, and clutter makes that difficult.
- Make Your House Sparkling Clean: No one wants to buy a dirty house. Spend time cleaning your home from top to bottom before the open house.
- Add Staging Touches: While you don’t want your home to look like a model home, adding a few staging touches can help potential buyers visualize the space. Staging includes adding fresh flowers, arranging furniture to create open space, and adding a bowl of fruit to the kitchen counter.
- Start Packing: You may not be ready to move yet, but starting the packing process can help buyers see your home as move-in ready. Plus, it will make your life easier when the time comes to move.
If you’re listing soon, get in touch. If you have any questions about buying or selling in the area, don’t hesitate to reach out, I’m always here to help!
Best Home Renovations for Selling
Are you getting ready to sell your home? Since the supply of homes for sale has increased this year, today’s buyers have more options than last year. That may mean you cannot ignore some of those repairs or cosmetic updates you could have skipped in previous months.
So, what are the best home renovations to do before selling? Here are a few ideas that can help boost your home’s value without breaking the bank.
NAR, the National Association of Realtors, conducted an impact report on projects that could net your the best return (see visual below):
Hardwoods are currently the winner on the project that may give sellers the best return. If you do not have hardwoods throughout your home, installing them in the main living areas is a great way to make a significant impact. Additionally, although it’s not listed in the visual above, an inexpensive and common remodeling project is simply painting. A fresh coat of paint can lighten and brighten any room.
Focus on the Bathroom & Kitchen
When considering a sale, the two most important rooms in the house are the kitchen and bathroom, more specifically, the master bathroom. Unfortunately, these are also the two most expensive areas to renovate. If you do not have the budget for a complete makeover, there are still some things you can do to update these rooms without spending a fortune.
One way to save money in the kitchen is by refacing your cabinets instead of replacing them. This will give your kitchen an updated look without the cost or mess of a complete renovation. You could also replace cabinet hardware and install new countertops to provide the room with an entirely new feel.
Consider replacing outdated fixtures such as toilets, sinks, and towel racks in the bathroom. You may also want to add some storage or update the tile. As with the kitchen, you can quickly and easily give your bathroom a facelift by painting it.
Consult a Real Estate Professional
Consult a real estate professional if you are unsure about what home renovations to do before selling. They will be familiar with the current trends in your area and can advise you on which projects will give you the best return.
When you are ready to sell your home, contact me, and I will help you through the entire process from start to finish! I have experience assisting sellers in finding success in today’s market and would love to put my knowledge to work for you.
Why the Price Matters
The housing market has started slowing down from the housing frenzy we have seen over the past two years during the pandemic. What does this mean for sellers?
Homes are still appreciating, and experts say this will continue, but they will appreciate at a slower pace because of the rise in mortgage rates. Since mortgage rates are rising, there is less buyer demand, which has brought more homes on the market. As a seller, this shift means how you price your home matters more now than ever.
Why Today’s Housing Market Is Different
It is crucial as a seller to recognize that we are in a different market than during the pandemic. During the pandemic, sellers had the liberty to price their homes higher because demand was so high and supply was so low. With this shift in today’s market, pricing your home correctly is vital.
Why the Price Matters
Pricing Too High Runs the Risk of Deterring Potential Buyers:
If you jump into selling your home with too high of a price, you will deter potential buyers and may have to lower the price to try to reignite interest in your house. Price drops can be seen as a red flag to some buyers who wonder what that means about the home or if it’s still overpriced.
To avoid this headache, consult your real estate agent about a reasonable listing price for today’s market. To find the right price, they balance the value of homes in your neighborhood, current market trends and buyer demand, the condition of your house, and more.
Additionally, pricing your home correctly will create more interest, resulting in a quicker sale.
If you want to sell your home, it’s essential to consult a real estate agent about what today’s market conditions mean for you. With the help of an expert, you can be sure to price your home correctly, leading to a quick and easy sale.
You Still Have an Opportunity as a Seller in Today’s Market
We are still in a seller’s market. A real estate professional can help you price your home correctly based on current market conditions. In turn, you can maximize your sales potential and minimize hassle in a shifting market.
Chief Economist at the National Association of Realtors, Lawrence Yun, states that:
“Homes priced right are selling very quickly, but homes priced too high are deterring prospective buyers.”
Founder and CEO of Altos Research, Mike Simonsen, also states that:
“We can see that demand is still there for the homes that are priced properly.”
Mortgage Tips for the Self-Employed
More people have become self-employed in recent years, but when looking to become a homeowner, what does that mean for securing a mortgage? Self-employed entrepreneurs are seen as a greater risk, and often, successful self-employed workers never apply because they believe they will not qualify. But don’t give up on home ownership! You can take steps to boost your credibility with lenders. Here are a few tips to help you on your path to pre-approval:
- Lower your income-to-debt ratio. While a high income is excellent, your debt-to-income ratio is more important to lenders. This is the percentage of your gross monthly income that goes towards debts like credit cards, car loans, and your potential mortgage payment. The lower this number is, the better chance you will be approved for a loan. To lower your debt-to-income ratio, make extra payments on your existing debts each month or consider paying off some debts altogether.
- Keep your personal and business accounts separate. This will make it easier for lenders to see a clear picture of your finances. Plus, it’ll help you stay organized come tax time.
- Document everything. When you’re self-employed, lenders will want to see a two-year history of your business income. Be sure to keep detailed records of your revenue and expenses. This could include tax returns, profit and loss statements, and bank statements.
- Deduct less on your taxes. When you’re self-employed, you can deduct several business expenses from your taxes. But when it comes to qualifying for a mortgage, it’s best to minimize your deductions. This will result in a higher taxable income, which will make you look more appealing to lenders.
- Register and pay yourself on a W-2 form. If you’re incorporated, lenders may require that you document your income with a W-2 form. This is the same form used to report wages for traditional employees. To get a W-2 form, you’ll need to register your business with the IRS and pay yourself a salary.
- Work with a lender who specializes in loans for self-employed borrowers. You may have to shop around to find a lender who understands the unique challenges of financing a home when you’re self-employed. But it’s worth it to find someone who can help you navigate the process and get the best loan terms possible.
If you’re self-employed and looking to buy a home, don’t get discouraged. With careful planning and preparation, you can increase your chances of getting pre-approved for a mortgage. Use these tips to make the process smoother and put you on the path to home ownership. I’d be happy to put you in touch with lenders and help you with your real estate needs!
Conquering the Mortgage Process
Many potential buyers are putting off the home buying process because of the uncertainty of the real estate market and the fear of the steps involved in qualifying for a mortgage. However, it doesn’t have to be daunting. Below, we have broken down what you’ll need to qualify and easy steps you can follow to apply.
To qualify in today’s market, you’ll need:
- A Down Payment: The National Association of Realtors (NAR) reported that the median down payment is 13% of the home’s price, while the median down payment for first-time homebuyers is 7%. Programs are also available to put less money down or even no money down.
- Good Credit: You’ll need a credit score of at least 620 to qualify for a conventional loan. If your score is below that, you may still be able to get an FHA loan, which requires a minimum credit score of 580.
- Income and Employment History: Lenders will want to see steady employment history and income. They may require documentation such as W2s, tax returns, and pay stubs.
If you are ready to apply, here are five easy steps you can follow:
- Find out your current credit history and credit score. This can be easily done by requesting a free credit report.
- Gather your documentation. This includes income verification (such as W-2 forms or tax returns), credit history, and assets (such as bank statements to verify your savings).
- Contact a real estate professional. A real estate professional will help guide you through the home buying process and can put you in touch with a mortgage lender.
- Consult with your lender. Your lender can help you determine how much you can afford to borrow and what type of loan is best for you.
- Get pre-approval. A pre-approval letter provides an estimate of what you might be able to borrow (provided your financial status doesn’t change) and demonstrates to home sellers that you’re serious about buying.
With these steps, you can ease your way into the mortgage process and be on your way to owning your dream home. Do your research, reach out to professionals, stick to your budget, and be sure you’re ready to take on the financial responsibilities of becoming a homeowner.
Keri Johnson works hard for her clients. The home buying process for Keri focuses on the person. The client’s needs and desires are Keri’s priority. It is more than a transaction, it is a relationship. Keri’s background in banking and investments is a natural complement to a successful career in real estate.
Factors to Consider When Moving with Kids
With school-aged children in your home, buying or selling a house can take a different approach. Finding the right size, location, school district, and more is essential. Here are some things to keep in mind when you’re ready to move with your family.
Location and Neighborhood
When it comes to finding a house that meets the needs of your school-aged children, location is critical. You’ll want to be close enough to their school for them to walk or take the bus, but not so close that there’s too much traffic or noise. You’ll also want to make sure there are plenty of things to do in the area, like parks, playgrounds, and after-school activities.
The school district is also an essential factor when having kids in school. 53% said the quality of the school district is a vital factor when purchasing a home, and 50% select neighborhoods for the convenience of the schools.
House Size
When considering a move, think about how much space your family will need now and in the future. As your children grow, you may need more space. 36% of parents with kids under 18 said they need more living space than they currently have.
National Association of Realtors®(NAR) reported that buyers with children purchase larger, detached single-family homes with four bedrooms and two full bathrooms at approximately 2,110 square feet.
Finances
Of course, budget is always a consideration when buying or selling a house. 26% noted how childcare expenses delayed the home-buying process and forced additional compromises: 31% in the size of the home, 24% in the price, and 18% in the distance from work.
Be sure to factor in after-school care, extracurricular activities, and tuition for private schools into your budget when you are house hunting.
Selling Your Current Home
“When buying or selling a home, exercising patience is beneficial, but in some cases – such as facing an upcoming school year or the outgrowing of a home – sellers find themselves rushed and forced to accept a less than ideal offer.”
For sellers with children, 21% want a real estate professional to help them sell the home within a specific time frame, 20% at a competitive price, and 19% to market their home to potential buyers.
Bottom Line
Buying or selling a home can be driven by different priorities when raising a family. If you’re a seller with children and looking to relocate, contact me, and I can help you navigate the process in the most reasonable time frame for you and your family.
Keri Johnson works hard for her clients. The home buying process for Keri focuses on the person. The client’s needs and desires are Keri’s priority. It is more than a transaction, it is a relationship.
Keri Johnson, REALTOR® (928) 642-3823
Budgeting for the Expenses of Home Buying
Ready to buy a home but unsure of what to expect? It can feel intimidating to know how much you need to save and what you’ll need to budget for throughout the process. Don’t worry, I have your back!
Here are a few things experts say you should plan for along the way:
1) Down Payment
The down payment is likely already on the top of your mind. Many believe that you need 20% of the home’s purchase price when it comes to your down payment. However, The National Association of Realtors (NAR) states that:
“One of the biggest misconceptions among housing consumers is what the typical down payment is and what amount is needed to enter homeownership. Having this knowledge is critical to know what to save . . .”
In some situations, you may be able to put as little as 3.5% (or even 0%) down. I can connect you with a trusted professional to help you understand your options.
2) Earnest Money Deposit
In today’s competitive market, you may run into a bidding war. You may want to prepare for an earnest money deposit within your budget. This is money you pay as a show of good faith when you make an offer on the house. It’s not an added expense. It’s just paying some of that upfront. Instead, the earnest money deposit is using some of the money you already saved for your purchase to show the seller you’re committed and serious about their house. Typically, an earnest money deposit is roughly 1% to 2% of the home’s purchase price.
First American explains:
“The deposit made from the buyer to the seller when submitting an offer. This deposit is typically held in trust by a third party and is intended to show the seller you are serious about purchasing their home. Upon closing the money will generally be applied to your down payment or closing costs.”
3) Closing Costs
Next is planning for closing costs. Closing costs cover the fees for the various people and services involved in your transaction. Budget for roughly 2% to 5% of the home’s purchase price.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) describes closing costs as:
“The upfront fees charged in connection with a mortgage loan transaction. …generally including, but not limited to a loan origination fee, title examination and insurance, survey, attorney’s fee, and prepaid items, such as escrow deposits for taxes and insurance.”
Bottom Line
Knowing what to budget for in the homebuying process is essential.
Freddie Mac states:
“It’s critical you understand all your expenses before diving in. The more prepared you are for your down payment, closing and other costs, the smoother your homebuying journey will be.”
Let’s connect, and I will help you and let you know what to expect when you buy a home.
