listing presentation - the southbound group

SELL YOUR PLACE

202 Church St. Franklin, TN 37064

615.790.3400 !www.villagetn.com

to do:be your realtor®

After graduating from the University of Tennessee with a Bachelor's degree, I began my real estate career straight out of college. Once I gained a few years of experience, I then moved to Nashville to seek more real estate opportunities and obtained a Master's degree from Belmont University. In my 11th year of real estate, I obtained my Broker's license and now manage the Village office in Franklin. I have received my CRS, GRI, ABR, ASP and CNE designations and I’m an e-Pro certified Realtor®. I am a member of the National Association of Realtors, the Tennessee Association of Realtors, the Greater Nashville Association of Realtors and the Williamson County Association of Realtors.

I enjoy the challenges that marketing and selling a home bring. I spend most of my professional time working in Williamson County and Nashville but can assist buyers and sellers all over the nation. No sale is too big or too small for me – I take great pride in offering the same level of commitment to each client.

The phrase "Selling to Give Back" was coined because of my belief in giving back to the community. After each transaction, I make a charitable donation in my client's name to the organization of their choice. Over the years, my clients and I have given donations to the American Heart Association, the Young-Williams Animal Center, the American Red Cross, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, the District, Second Harvest Food Bank, Sweet Sleep, the Nashville Rescue Mission, the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation to name just a few. To learn more, visit www.SellingToGiveBack.com.

With experience and a past record of success, I can help you with all of your real estate needs. If you or someone you know is looking for a real estate agent to truly represent your best interest and to build a friendly, comfortable relationship with, contact me.

c 615.587.6722 f. 866.788.6344

[email protected] www.SouthboundGroup.com www.SellingToGiveBack.com

jessiSGARLATABroker, CRS, GRI, ABR, ASP, CNE, e-Pro

Multi-Million Dollar Producer

©2016 Village Real Estate Services. All rights reserved.

to do:choose a different

hillsboro 2206 21st Avenue South

Nashville, Tennessee 37212

615.383.6964

12south 2814 12th Avenue South

Nashville, Tennessee 37204

615.369.9868 !east nashville 615 Woodland Street Nashville, Tennessee

37206 615.369.3278 !

franklin 202 Church Street

Franklin, Tennessee 37064

615.790.4881 !

At Village, we see things differently than most real estate brokerages. Our driving force is the desire to build stronger, more progressive communities and to create neighborhood wealth. Our mission and community involvement reflect this commitment to these values. Whether it's giving back through the Village Fund or implementing our unique approach to buying and selling, we strive to make a difference. !When you do business with us as a customer or a vendor, you have the opportunity to contribute to our ultimate goal... making Nashville a better place to live, work and play. !Core values: • Enthusiasm for making a difference in our community • Act from care and concern about the company as a whole • Be resourceful in getting the job done for our customers • Have a creative spirit • Work ethically to achieve business goals and social mission

kind of company


what my clients say:“I feel like Jessi and her team made the impossible happen with the selling of my late brother’s home. I appreciated their quick response time, communication, and knowledge of the industry. I feel she was able to get some good offers on the property without even listing which was impressive to me. I had 2 other Realtors who valued my property much lower than Jessi and recommended that I lower the price, but Jessi was able to get me more than one contract at my asking price, that along with some unforeseen obstacles that came up, and we still closed before the New Year when I only contacted her 3 months prior (all from 3,000 miles away) was an impressive feat! Thanks Jessi & Molly and to the title company Chapman & Rosenthal!” — January 2016

Dara C. Nashville, TN

“Jessi and her team, Emily and Molly, are one of the greatest real estate teams we have ever worked with. My husband and I have bought and sold several homes and this team ranks at the top of our list. Jessi not only sold our home within 3 days of listing it, she had us closed and moved in 30 days. For months after our sale, Jessi and Emily worked around the clock, with our crazy schedules and our specific requirements to show us houses. We finally decided to build and moved into our new home less than a month ago. Jessi was available to us through it all. I recommend Jessi and her team every time I get the chance...they rock!” — December 2015

Tricia R. Nolensville, TN

“Jessi is a great Realtor. She lives and breathes this market and keeps advanced and always one step ahead. We were first time sellers and Jessi guided us through the whole process, going above and beyond in getting an appliance removed for the buyers. She is exceptional and I highly recommend her!!! Thanks Jessi!” — October 2014

Archie M. Brentwood, TN

“I can tell you first hand that even for an experienced negotiator, selling a house can be an emotional experience. I am convinced that the counsel that Jessi provided allowed us to navigate this minefield and come out not just with an offer but with the best offer. Perhaps most impressively is she was able to give us the advice from the vantage point of “if it were me what I would do” as opposed to someone making a commission if the house sold. The difference was both noticed and appreciated.” — June 2014

Roger S. Brentwood, TN


!5

qualificationsHave you ever wondered what all those letters after my name mean? Each group of letters represents a level of education in the real estate world that I have completed. I pride myself on my comprehensive and thorough knowledge of real estate because it allows my clients to come to one place to have all their needs met. Here is a brief description of the designations that most directly benefit you when you list with me:

CRS: Certified Residential Specialist

The CRS designation is the highest credential awarded to residential sales agents, managers, and brokers. It signifies an outstanding level of experience and insight. Only 3% of real estate agents in the nation hold the CRS designation.

GRI: Graduate, REALTOR Institute

Realtors with the GRI designation have in-depth training in legal and regulatory issues, technology, professional standards, and the sales process. Buying property is a complex and stressful task. In fact, it's often the biggest single investment you will make in your lifetime. At the same time, real estate transactions have become increasingly complicated. New technology, laws, procedures and the increasing sophistication of buyers and sellers requires real estate practitioners to perform at an ever-increasing level of professionalism.GRI designees:• have pursued a course of study that represents the minimum common body of knowledge for progressive real estate professionals.• have developed a solid foundation of knowledge and skills to navigate the current real estate climate—no matter what its condition.• are recognized nationally.• act with professionalism and are committed to serving their clients and customers with the highest ethical standards.

ASP: Accredited Staging Professional

An Accredited Staging Professional knows the ins and outs of Home Staging. Home Staging is professionally preparing homes for sale so that they appeal to the most buyers and generate the highest price in the least amount of time on market. In today's market conditions, Staging sells homes - it’s a fact!

CNE: Certified Negotiation Expert

Professional negotiators spend a significant amount of time planning for success. They know how to “think double,” how to stay several moves ahead of an opponent, and how planning for an opponent’s success is the best way to plan for their own success. CNE designees know how to plan for success in every negotiation!

e-Pro: Certification for Internet professionalism

NAR's e-PRO® certification teaches Realtors to use cutting-edge technologies and digital initiatives to build a better business. The e-PRO® certification program teaches members how to effectively use real estate technology to increase efficiency. Applying advanced technologies and social media strategies to a business plan expands capabilities and increases reach.


to do:work with the best

Village has been recognized as the Most Innovative Brokerage or Franchise nationally according to Inman News. At Inman’s conference in San Francisco, Village was among eight finalists for the coveted position. “We are so grateful that Inman recognizes companies that are not only in the business of selling real estate, but also those that are working within the community through socially responsible entrepreneurship,” Mark Deutschmann, Village CEO, said. Village was recognized for its commitment to “recycle housing” by focusing on older, established neighborhoods and infill condo and loft developments. Additionally, Village’s commitment to improving the Greater Nashville area by philanthropic giving through The Village Fund was applauded by the organization.“It was great to see ‘the little guy’ win,” Brian Copeland, Village’s Chief Engagement Officer, said. “This is the first time someone in our market place has been a finalist. Village has always been innovative, it’s just time we start telling our story.” According to Inman, the awards were created in 1997 to honor real estate companies, technologies, services and individuals who have pushed the real estate industry forward by improving the real estate transaction process for both consumers and real estate professionals. Inman News is the leading source of independent real estate news, information, research, opinion and commentary for industry professionals and consumers alike.


to do:give back to

how to give !Most Village agents donate to

the Village Fund by giving a portion of their commissions. Our clients give through their

transactions as well. We invite you to join us in making

Nashville great.

It is easy to give. Simply ask your Village agent for a

brochure. You may also donate by visiting www.villagetn.com, hovering over “About Us,” and

clicking “Village Fund.”

At Village, we recognize the importance of a healthy, vibrant community. We feel that supporting the community in which we workand thrive is not just an idea, but our responsibility. Giving to causes which strengthen our neighborhoods and the local economy elevates our great city. The greater our city can become, the more we all benefit.The Village Fund was born out of this passion. Village’s non-profit foundation is designed to benefit from our collective success and prosperity, giving to a wide array of non-profits. Our greater Village family is instrumental in this endeavor of building a better Nashville.

Our commitment to this responsibility is proven by the Village Fund’s success. Since its inception in 1996, we have given to over 250 organizations to directly enhance our community.

Areas of giving include:• housing • community • environment and smart growth • the arts

Before joining Village, I had already set up my business design so that a portion of my commissions went to a charity of my client’s choosing. Therefore, my charitable contributions can be tracked through my website and slogan, “Selling to Give Back”. The ultimate goal is the same – to give back to the communities in which we live.

our community


to do:meet all your

real estate needsMortgage Investors Group, Lisa Wiles

Lisa Wiles with Mortgage Investors Group is our preferred lender. She has access to a plethora of products to make the home-buying dream a reality for most anyone. Her seniority at MIG allows her the ability to adjust “fixed” costs and match other lenders’ GFEs. Lisa can also help sellers craft loan options and bonuses to attract buyers, and can even help market these options.

To learn more about Lisa Wiles and Mortgage Investors Group, please visit: www.LisaTWiles.com

!Chapman and Rosenthal Title, Jay Alexander

Chapman and Rosenthal Title is our preferred title company. They provide a full range of closing and title services to ensure a smooth and seamless experience for our clients. They have two convenient locations – Brentwood in Cool Springs and Nashville in Green Hills. Chapman and Rosenthal Title is a trusted resource for all of your title needs and they have my complete confidence that they can get your sale closed. For more information, please visit: www.chapmanandrosenthal.com.

!Other companies in my family of services:

!


http://www.chapmanandrosenthal.com

!9

to do:meet all your

real estate needs

Preferred Vendors

Lender Lisa Wiles – Mortgage Investors Group [email protected] www.LisaTWiles.com

Homeowners InsuranceJeremy Holt – Holt Insurance [email protected] www.HoltInsuranceAgency.com

Home Inspector John Steele – Qualitas Home Inspections [email protected]

Title CompanyJay Alexander – Chapman & Rosenthal Title [email protected]

Contractor Briscoe Gordon – Gordon [email protected] 615-754-2118 www.GordonConstructionInc.com

Carpet CleanerEd VanVoorhees – Citrus Solutions 615-333-8977 www.Citrus4Carpets.com

Movers The Green Truck Movers 615-788-6982 www.TheGreenTruckMovers.com

Alarm MonitoringSuperior Detection Systems (SDS) 615-373-8330 www.SuperiorDetection.com

Pest Control Pest Doctor 615-287-0111 www.pestdoctor.us

*Tell them Jessi Sgarlata with Village sent you for special deals


mailto:[email protected]




http://www.ChapmanAndRosenthal.com


http://www.pestdoctor.us

to do:let the numbers

do the talking

!Village’s Homes are on the Market at least 6 days and as much as 22 days—less than the competition.


Average Days on Market

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village is #1 in nashville volume

Based off RealTracs MLS data 1/1/2015-12/31/2015 provided by BrokerMetrics.


village is #1 in nashville units

Based off RealTracs MLS data 1/1/2015-12/31/2015 provided by BrokerMetrics.

nowthe

details


MARKET CONDITIONS !

economy financial market

location competition

SELLERS price & terms commissions

condition of property

REALTOR® !

• marketing signs • mls lock box flyers • open house

agent-to-agent marketing !

advertising direct mailings • e-newsletters

website • area publications

• follow-up

factors influencingthe sale of your home


The Pricing Pyramid !Pricing a home above its market value reduces the number of prospective buyers willing to visit. Pricing below the market value increases the number of interested buyers. By establishing a reasonable listing price, you help increase the percentage of prospective buyers who will look at the property. The price you set and the level of interest you create should reflect your selling goals. !!!!!!!!!!!!!!Home Sales Interest / Activity

sellers – price / terms

factors influencing the sale of your home


sellers – commissions



!Here are some simple suggestions. !Curb Appeal !• Gardening equipment/tools should be put away and hoses neatly coiled. !• Park your cars in your garage or somewhere down the street rather than leaving them in the driveway. !• Keep your landscaping looking neat and well kept. Bright blooms in the front yard or on the porch add curb appeal. !• If someone in the family is working on a car, a bike or boat outside, insist that it remain out of sight, or off the property. !• Buyers look closely at your front door, so it must be clean, freshly painted and oiled. Brass or metal doorknobs should be polished. !Inside !• If feasible, hire someone to do a heavy-duty overhaul of all the nooks and crannies. !• Make every room look as spacious as possible. Remove as much furniture as you can. !• Remove any awkward doors that complicate movement from one room to the next. !• Check each room for hazards. Make sure all extension cords are out of sight and remove any potentially slippery throw rugs. !• Donate or pack away any knickknacks, magazines, and clutter. !• Take a good look at your kitchen and box up everything you absolutely don’t have to use every day. Spacious counters and cupboards are visually pleasing. !• Blinds are inexpensive and a terrific solution to all kinds of window decorating problems. If your curtains are worn or faded, replace them with blinds. They give a room a fresh, modern look.

sellers – home condition



preparing your home for sale


Did you know well placed furniture can open up rooms and make them seem larger than they are? Or that opening drapes and blinds and turning on all lights make a room seem bright and cheery? !It’s a fact: acquiring the highest market value and elevating your home above others in the same price range often comes down to first impressions. !Here are some inexpensive ways to maximize your home’s appeal. !Exterior: • Keep the grass freshly cut • Remove all yard clutter • Apply fresh paint to wooden fences • Paint the front door • Weed and apply fresh mulch to garden beds • Clean windows inside and out • Wash or paint home’s exterior • Tighten and clean all door handles • Ensure gutters and downspouts are firmly attached !Interior: • Remove excessive wall hangings, furniture, and knickknacks (consider a temporary self-storage unit) • Clean or paint walls and ceilings • Shampoo carpets • Clean and organize cabinets and closets • Repair all plumbing leaks, including faucets and drain traps • Clean all light fixtures/fans !For Showings: • Turn on all the lights • Open drapes in the daytime • Keep pets secured outdoors • Play quiet background music • Light the fireplace (if seasonably appropriate) • Infuse home with a comforting scent • Vacate the property while it is being shown


Know why you’re selling and keep it to yourself. The marketing of your home is a strategy based upon your reasons for selling. Don’t reveal your motivation to anyone else or it may be used against you. While you should be out of your home during showing time, you may intersect with a prospective buyer or their agent. If asked why you are selling, simply say that your housing needs have changed.

Appearances do matter. Appearances are so critical that it would be unwise to ignore this when selling your home. The look and feel of your home will generate a greater emotional response than any other factor. Prospective buyers react to what they see, hear, feel, and smell and these elements can easily turn a buyer off of a well-priced home.

Invite the honest opinions of others. The biggest mistake you can make is to rely solely on your own judgment. You need to be objective about your home’s good points as well as bad.

Even if it seems insignificant, fix it and clean it. Scrub, scour and tidy up. Get rid of clutter and repair squeaks. Repair that broken light switch or the tiny crack in the bathroom mirror because these can be deal-killers and you’ll never know what will cause alarm in a buyer. Remember, you’re not just competing with other resale homes, but brand new ones as well.

Let prospective buyers visualize themselves in your home. The last thing you want prospective buyers to feel when viewing your home is that they may be intruding into someone's life. Avoid clutter such as too many knickknacks, etc. Decorate in neutral colors, like white or beige, and place a few carefully chosen items to add warmth and character. Minimize family photos.

If marketing a vacant home... Studies have shown that it is more difficult to sell a home that is vacant, because it looks forlorn, forgotten and simply not appealing. It could even cost you a closed deal. A seller with a vacant home is considered to be more motivated to sell fast. Buyers also consider a seller with a vacant home more motivated or even desperate. If your home is vacant, it is important to dress it up to look as new and fresh as possible. Consider having your home staged as it can often speed selling.

Odors must go. Odd smells such as traces of food, pets and smoking can kill deals quickly. Research has suggested that clean citrus smells or peppermint are best for a clean, crisp showing.


keys to a better showing


realtor® – services


Study conducted by the National Association of Realtors®


realtor® – marketing plan


My proven marketing plan is designed to capture the maximum exposure for your home in the shortest period of time.

We will: !• Share and promote your listing at Village sales meetings and online. 30% of our listings are sold in-house. !• Price your home strategically so you’re competitive with the current market and current price trends. !• Place “For Sale” signage, complete with property flyers easily accessible to drive-by prospects. !• Distribute “Just Listed” postcards to neighbors and clients, encouraging them to tell family and friends about your home. !• Optimize your home’s internet presence by posting information on Village’s Listing Service, as well as in the Multiple Listing Service with many photographs and a detailed description syndication. !• Target my marketing to active real estate agents who specialize in selling homes in your neighborhood. !• Create an open house schedule to promote your property to prospective buyers and market those open houses. !• Target active buyers and investors in my database who are looking for homes in your price range and area. !• Provide you with weekly updates detailing my marketing efforts, including comments from prospective buyers and agents who have visited your home.


online resourcesWe believe in maximizing your market by utilizing websites and social media. When you list with us, your listing will be found on over 250 other Realtor® sites – including other real estate companies’ sites.


appointment centerWhen selling a home, appointment setting and showing feedback are important functions. They help you to stay abreast of marketing efforts and how your home is showing as compared to the competition. Our automated system ensures active communication during the entire listing process.The Village Real Estate Appointment Center is key in delivering the highest level of customer service to our clients. This unique service allows all showings to be booked through one centralized office, keeping accuracy and efficiency at the forefront. The extended hours of our call center allow more time for potential buyers to view your home. You will be contacted for all showing appointments. Once that appointment is confirmed, we will be notified, keeping us informed of all daily activity. After the showing, the buyer’s agent will be contacted requesting feedback on your property. Village Real Estate Appointment Center Office Hours:Monday – Saturday, 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM Sunday, 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Appointment Center Phone Number:615.327.0101


!26

to do:show a core

talkable differenceFind an agent who does things similarly...I dare you!

Referral-Only Realtor®

After nearly 11 years as a real estate professional, I work solely off of past client and network referrals. I believe in offering 100% dedication to my clients and a level of service that is unparalleled by any other agent in the area. I cannot uphold that guarantee by chasing cold leads or over-extending myself with unqualified clients.

6-Hour Response Time

Good communication is so important in the world of customer service. I engage in whatever form of communication best suits my clients, be it phone calls, in-person meetings, emails or text messaging. I also guarantee to respond to my clients in 6 hours or less.* My clients are important to me, and I believe they should feel that way throughout our business relationship.

“Selling To Give Back”

As part of my mission, I give back to the community which shapes us. To show my support for the causes that are important to my clients, I donate a portion of my commission to the charity of my clients’ choice. Philanthropy is so important – there is never an excuse to forget those who are less fortunate.

*If I’m in a situation which prevents me from responding in 6 hours, you will be given advance notice (e.g. vacation, conference, etc.).


!27

to do:create a buzz

Place a “Coming Soon” sign in the yard 2-3 weeks prior This generates curiosity with the neighbors who are one of several key players in selling your home. It also identifies the potential buyers driving through your neighborhood in their spare time – they always call for more information.

Send “Pick Your Neighbor” PostcardsSee attached

Utilize Social Media Photos and information about your home will be placed on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Google+ which is the quickest way to spread the word.

Sales Meeting AnnouncementsEach week at our sales meeting we have a section dedicated to “New Listings” where any upcoming or new listings are announced and showcased. More often than not, the homes announced at the meeting are sold before listing.

Mobilize Active Area 10 AgentsPlace “Coming Soon” flyers in the mailboxes of the agents who sell the highest number of units in Area 1.

Electronic NewsletterSend an eNewsletter to all Middle Tennessee agents.

While we prepare for the listing period I will use that time wisely to get the community interested in and talking about your home.


!28

Personalized Listing Checklist

I return to your home and comprise a Personalized Pre-Listing Checklist. This checklist is overly specific to ensure all items are completed with no confusion.

Staging Appointment

Part of creating your checklist includes a staging consultation to showcase your home in the best light possible.

Professional Photography

A few years ago, more than 85% of buyers chose the homes they wanted to see solely based on the photos. As of 2013, that has jumped to 100%. Therefore, it is crucial to get amazing photos as they are the first impression of the home. Those photos are also featured on every piece of marketing material and over 250 websites. Let’s put our best foot forward.

During the 2-3 week “Coming Soon” period, we are preparing your home for list...taking it from a home, to a house, to a product.

to do:prepare your home


!29

to do:use high quality

marketing material


!30


what to expect!Sample Order of Events

1. Sign listing documents

2. “Coming Soon” sign placed at property 2-4 weeks prior to going live

3. Place lockbox on front door at same time as “Coming Soon” sign

4. Seller receives Personalized Pre-Listing Checklist from Jessi

5. Once Personalized Pre-Listing Checklist is completed, photos are scheduled (48-hour turnaround time)

6. During steps 4-5, “Pick Your Neighbor” postcards are mailed and home is marketed on pre-market forums

7. Other marketing material is prepared and finalized once photos are received

8. Listing goes Active on MLS and all syndicated websites

9. “Just Listed” postcards are mailed

10. Open House is scheduled for the first Sunday on the market (if seller will allow)

11. Seller to address any changeable feedback after the open house

12. After 30 days or 10 showings (whichever happens first), we decrease the price if no offers have been received

All buyers will conduct a home inspection of the property as a contingency of the sale. The following is a list of items all sellers should inspect prior to listing. !• Remove soil or mulch from contact with siding. 6 or more inches of clearance is preferred. • Clean out dirty gutters and debris from roof. • Divert all water away from the house; i.e. downspouts, sump pump, condensation drains and the like. Grade should slope away from the structure. Clean out basement entry drains. • Trim trees, roots and bushes back from the foundation, roof, siding and chimney. • Paint all weathered exterior wood and caulk around the trim, chimney, windows and doors. • Seal asphalt driveways, if cracking. • Seal or point masonry chimney caps. Install metal flue cap. • Clean or replace HVAC filter. Clean dirty air returns and plenum. • Point up any failing mortar joints in brick or block. • Test all smoke detectors to ensure they are in safe working condition. • Update attic ventilation if none is present. • Have the chimney, fireplace or wood stove cleaned and provide buyer with cleaning record. • Seal masonry walls in the basement. • Don’t shortcut. You may raise questions that cause unnecessary concern to buyers. • Ensure that all doors and windows are in proper operating condition. • Ensure that all plumbing fixtures (toilet, tub, shower, and sinks) are in proper working condition. Check for and fix any leaks. Caulk around fixtures if necessary. • Install GFCI receptacles near all water sources. Test all present GFCI receptacles. • Check sump pump for proper operation. • Replace any burned out light bulbs. • Remove rotting wood and/or firewood from contact with the house. • Ensure that proper grading is followed under a deck. • Caulk all exterior wall penetrations. • Check to ensure that the crawlspace is dry and install a proper vapor barrier if necessary. • Check that bath vents are properly vented and in working condition. • Remove paints, solvents, gas, and the like from crawlspace, basement, attic, porch, etc. • If windows are at or below grade, install window wells and covers. • Have clear access to attic, crawl space, heating system, garage and other areas that will need to be inspected and remove any locks. • If the house is vacant, make sure that all utilities are turned on, including water, electric, water heater, furnace, air conditioning and breakers in the main panel.

before the inspection


Q. Do we have to leave when the house is being shown?

A. It is best to be away when the house is being shown. However, sometimes it is impossible. (Bitter cold weather or sick children are examples.) If you are at home, go wherever the prospective buyer is not. Your presence inhibits them from making comments, looking in closets, etc. Remember that we want them to feel like it is already their home.

Q. How do I answer questions from an agent or his customer?

A. We prefer that you refer all questions to your agent. Simply give them my card. I have seen many owners un-sell their own home by answering questions. Be very careful not to comment on the value or desirability of a feature. Any comment regarding your financial need to sell might be used against you! Also, discuss this issue with your children.

Q. How much advance notice will I get before a showing?

A. As much notice as we get. Our office will call you as soon as an appointment is requested. Whenever you leave, be sure the house is showable. If you are gone, the showing agent will use the MLS lockbox.

Q. What should I do if an unexpected Realtor requests to show the house?

A. First, ask for a business card. It is your house, and it is your right to ask that they set up an appointment through the office. Since you are serious about selling your house, try to accommodate their request. If you need a few minutes to straighten up, ask that they return in 15 or 20 minutes.

Q. What should we do if an unexpected buyer knocks?

A. If a buyer comes alone, DO NOT let them in! This is for your protection. Slip them a business card or a brochure through the door, and tell them to contact your agent. Advise children of this procedure as well!

common questions


Q. We have a pet. What should we do during a showing?

A. The pet, like all family members, should be out of the house for showings. Pets are a BIG distraction (either a positive or a negative one). Please do not ask us to be responsible for keeping your pet contained. Your pet will invariably make a run for freedom. We must also avoid a situation where a child or buyer is injured.

Q. What about print advertising my home?

A. Less than 5% of real estate sales come from print advertising. More than four times that amount (20%) come from yard signs. Most buyers use ads to call for information only. By far the greatest source of buyers is through MLS. You can help me by listing the features of your home that sold you on it. Those same features will likely sell the new owners as well.

Q. Do I get feedback after a showing?

A. It is very important for us to know why buyers like or do not like your home. Responses are crucial because we use them to make adjustments in our marketing plan. We email a feedback sheet to the showing agent immediately and then follow up with a call. Many agents will not give showing feedback, as it could compromise their buyer’s confidentiality.

Q. What happens when a buyer makes an offer?

A. Most real estate sales involve two agents. The REALTOR® working with the buyer will write up a sales contract and contact us. The buyer’s agent may present the offer to you and me together or may present it to me alone. We will review all the terms of the offer as an update market analysis. If a counter offer is necessary, we will prepare it. All offers and counters will be in writing with your initials and signature. This process may be completed in a few hours, but will probably extend several days. We will continue to show the house until we are clear to close the transaction.

Q. What if an offer comes in the first week? Did we price the house too low?

A. Every once in a while, someone is just waiting for your home to be for sale. If we bring you an offer tomorrow we CELEBRATE! Historical data has shown that the best buyers and offers come in the first thirty days. We do not win by pricing it higher and holding out for an offer. The longer the house is on the market, the less it brings.

common questions


closing 101The closing process finalizes the sale of your home and makes everything official. Also known as settlement, the closing is when you get paid and the buyer receives the keys to your home.

Here are a few things to bring to the closing:

•House keys •Garage door opener(s) •A photo ID

What can you expect?

The closing agent will look over the purchase contract and identify what payments are owed and by whom; prepare documents for the closing; conduct the closing; make sure taxes, title searches, real estate commissions and other closing costs are paid; ensure that the buyer’s title is recorded; and ensure that you receive any monies due to you.

What are your costs?

Sellers commonly pay the following at closing:•Mortgage balance and prepayment penalties, if applicable •Other claims against your property, such as unpaid property taxes •Unpaid special assessments on your property •Document stamps (or taxes) on the deed •Real estate commission•Legal fee or title insurance premium

After the closing, make sure you keep the following for tax purposes:

•Copies of all closing documents •All home improvement receipts on the home you sold


moving checklist

!Utilities ______ Electric ______ Telephone ______ Water ______ Cable ______ Gas !Professional Services ______ Broker ______ Accountant ______ Doctor ______ Dentist ______ Lawyer !Government ______ IRS ______ Post Office ______ Schools ______ State Licensing ______ Library ______ Veterans Administration !Clubs ______ Health and Fitness ______ Country Club

!Insurance Companies ______ Accidental ______ Auto ______ Health ______ Home ______ Life ______ Renters !Business Accounts ______ Banks ______ Cellular Phones ______ Department Stores ______ Finance Companies/Credit Cards !Subscriptions ______ Magazines ______ Newspapers !Miscellaneous ______ Business Associates ______ House of Worship ______ Drugstore ______ Dry Cleaner ______ Hairstylist

New Telephone Number ______________________________________________ !New Address ______________________________________________________ !Before you move, you should contact the following companies and service providers:


Compare your home to others using the report below. !!Date prepared: __________________ !!Prepared by: __________________ !!!Criteria used: _______________________________________________________

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!!!Number of months used for report: _____________ !Number of like properties closed within the time period: _____________ !!Properties/months = absorption rate _____________ per month This is the amount of similar inventory on the market.

absorption rate


to do:list with village

Listing your home with Village provides you with the foundation needed to successfully close your transaction for the best possible terms. !List with me and experience for yourself the Village difference!


listing presentation - the southbound group

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