Selling Your Home - Common Q&A About Selling Your Home
Should I add on or buy a bigger home?
Consider these questions
before making a choice between adding on to an existing home or moving up in the
market to a bigger house:
* How much money is available, either from cash
reserves or through a home improvement loan, to remodel the current house?
*
How much additional space is required? Would the foundation support a second
floor or does the lot have room to expand on the ground level?
* What do
local zoning and building ordinances permit?
* How much equity already
exists in the property?
* Are there affordable properties for sale that
would satisfy housing needs?
Ultimately, the decision should be based on individual needs, the extent of work involved and what will add the most value.
How long do bankruptcies and foreclosures stay on a credit
report?
Bankruptcies and foreclosures can remain on a credit report for
seven to 10 years. Some lenders will consider an borrower earlier if they have
reestablished good credit. The circumstances surrounding the bankruptcy can
also influence a lender's decision. For example, if you went through a
bankruptcy because your employer had financial difficulties, a lender may be
more sympathetic. If, however, you went through bankruptcy because you
overextended personal credit lines and lived beyond your means, the lender
probably will be less inclined to be flexible.
Do sellers have to disclose the terms of other
offers?
Sellers are not legally obligated to disclose the terms of other
offers to prospective buyers.
How do I prepare the house for
sale?
First and foremost, put it in the best condition possible,
especially if you are in a market with few buyers and lots of homes for sale.
That means taking care of any major repairs that could deter a buyer (such as
replacing any broken windows or replacing a leaky roof) if you can afford it.
Next, work on your home's curb appeal. Make sure your landscape is pristine. Mow
the grass, clean up any debris and weed the garden beds. Plant a few annual
flowers near the entrance or in pots to be placed by the door. Other quick
fixes that don't cost a lot of money but can help you get top dollar for your
home:
-
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