THE TOP 10 FASTEST AND BOTTOM 10 SLOWEST-MOVING U.S. HOUSING MARKETS!

THE TOP 10 FASTEST AND BOTTOM 10 SLOWEST-MOVING U.S. HOUSING MARKETS!

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Now that Spring has finally sprung, the process of shopping for a new home or selling a current home can be the foremost item on the agenda of a great many Americans!

The unfortunate fact is, however, that not all housing markets around the country are growing and thriving at the same pace. This is similar to the way in which the financial crisis a few years ago hit some areas much harder than it hit others.

With that in mind Trulia has put together lists of the Top 10 Fastest-Moving Housing Markets and the Bottom 10 of the Slowest-Moving Housing Markets.

What does a Metro area being on one of these lists mean for prospective buyers and sellers?

Although those who already active in the market likely are aware of these statistics, it provides others who may not be an idea of how aggressive they may need to be in a fast-moving market when making an offer or on the flip-side conservative in a slow-moving market.

The same type of thinking would also go for sellers in terms of how accommodating they need to be when receiving an offer.

 

 

These are the lists of the Top 10 and the Bottom 10 Fastest and Slowest-Moving Housing Markets in the USA!

America’s Top 10 Fastest-Moving Housing Markets

# U.S. Metro

Share of homes still for sale after being listed for at least two months, mid-April 2014

Share of homes still for sale after being listed for at least two months, mid-April 2013

Difference in share still for sale, 2014 vs 2013

Asking prices, Y-o-Y % Change, March 2014

1 Oakland, CA

29%

31%

-2%

22.7%

2 San Jose, CA

31%

35%

-4%

13.4%

3 San Francisco, CA

32%

36%

-4%

15.1%

4 Denver, CO

38%

47%

-8%

9.6%

5 San Diego, CA

41%

45%

-4%

14.0%

6 Seattle, WA

43%

49%

-6%

11.2%

7 Los Angeles, CA

44%

40%

4%

17.0%

8 Orange County, CA

45%

38%

6%

14.9%

9 Sacramento, CA

45%

41%

4%

22.2%

10 Middlesex County, MA

46%

52%

-6%

7.3%

 

America’s Top 10 Slowest-Moving Housing Markets

# U.S. Metro

Share of homes still for sale after being listed for at least two months, mid-April 2014

Share of homes still for sale after being listed for at least two months, mid-April 2013

Difference in share still for sale, 2014 vs 2013

Asking prices, Y-o-Y % Change, March 2014

1 Richmond, VA

72%

61%

11%

3.6%

2 Hartford, CT

71%

67%

4%

-1.2%

3 Albany, NY

70%

70%

0%

-1.5%

4 New Haven, CT

70%

68%

3%

-0.3%

5 Long Island, NY

70%

68%

2%

4.8%

6 Knoxville, TN

68%

64%

4%

6.2%

7 Springfield, MA

67%

66%

1%

3.0%

8 Columbia, SC

67%

67%

0%

8.0%

9 Birmingham, AL

66%

67%

0%

16.7%

10 Greenville, SC

66%

66%

0%

6.1%

 

 

 

 

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John Marcotte
Marcotte Real Estate Group
720-771-9401

john@boulderhomes4u.com

Search for homes on my website @ www.boulderhomes4u.com

When thinking of Real Estate, think of John Marcotte
I’m never too busy for your referrals.

 

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How to Pack for a Trip to Boulder, Colorado

How to Pack for a Trip to Boulder, Colorado

boulderlayersI know, you probably read the title and thought, “Hello? I live in Boulder, you don’t need to tell me how to pack for my place of residence.” Maybe you didn’t say it quite as formally as that, but you get my point.

However, with as beautiful as Boulder is, you’re going to have friends and family dying to come and visit you. Since there are so many amazing things to do in Boulder, you may just want to send them this link and tell them to follow it to a T.

Enough layers for every weather contingency: We’ve all learned it the hard way at one point or another: no matter what season it is, pack for every season. Sometimes it’s warm enough to be summer during the winter. Sometimes it snows May. Sometimes you’ll get all four seasons in one day. Be prepared.

Four different pairs of running shoes: You’ve got to have the right shoe for the right terrain! Trail runners for Sanitas; road runners for a daily run arounddowntown; Vibrams for barefoot running with shoes on and fashion running shoes for a night on the town. And remember — some folks wear those Vibrams…everywhere.

Carabineers: They aren’t just for rock climbing! In Boulder, they are your link to all your earthly possessions. You need one for your keys in your pocket and one to clip your water bottle to your backpack. Your guests will need one for your spare keys. Hell, bring a few extra for your backpack in case you need to clip a few more things to it. You never know.

Antacids or heartburn medicine: No, the food here won’t make you sick. But the sheer amount of delicious eateries located downtown might have you packing in a little too much at a time. You might think you can never have enough farm-to-table meals in one day, but if you try all of the options available in Downtown Boulder, you might find yourself rethinking that notion.

Good pen for signing petitions: When you visit Boulder, you won’t yet be accustomed to the barrage of petitions that you’re asked to sign on any given day and you won’t have developed a system for avoiding these folks, so you’ll likely get suckered into a couple of petitions, regardless of the fact that you aren’t a registered voter in Boulder county (you can definitely use that excuse though).

A healthy liver: Not that you can exactly through this into a suitcase, but just make sure that your liver is in good shape because, with access to several world famous microbreweries and more bars than you can shake an out of state driver’s license at, you can bet you’ll be testing the limits of your liver’s capabilities.

Rolling papers: Yup, weed is legal here now (maybe that’s the reason you’re taking the trip out here in the first place). Get ready to buy it and smoke it penalty free. And we encourage this — especially since the excise tax on your purchases all go to supporting our public schools. Higher education, indeed.

If you can fit all of those items into a sustainable, vegan carry on bag, you’ll be ready to head to Boulder ready for just about anything that comes your way.

Even if you forget to pack most of these items, you’re still going to have a great time in a city with some of the best views in the country, some of the most delicious food in the state and some of the most diverse activities possible at any point of the year.

 

 

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John Marcotte
Marcotte Real Estate Group
720-771-9401

john@boulderhomes4u.com

Search for homes on my website @ www.boulderhomes4u.com

When thinking of Real Estate, think of John Marcotte
I’m never too busy for your referrals.

 

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A Guide to Allergy-Friendly Restaurants in Boulder

A Guide to Allergy-Friendly Restaurants in Boulder

nutsLately, people are being diagnosed with more and more food allergies, from dairy and gluten to nuts and shellfish. Others have more rare allergies such as citrus foods. While not all restaurants cater to each allergy, there are a number of allergy-friendly restaurants in Boulder, serving up sensitive meals to folks from every walk of life.

Gluten/Wheat

Since a number of people are discovering an intolerance to wheat, gluten, or being diagnosed with Celiac’s disease, gluten-free restaurants in Boulder are fairly easy to find.

Not only is there a wealth of gluten-free beer options, many places offer an extensive menu free of gluten. This includes Boulder restaurants such as Native Foods CaféModmarketTangerineYellowbelly and Zeal.  Another great food to eat when you’re avoiding gluten is pho. The noodles are rice noodles and most ingredients are fresh produce or meat. Just be sure to skip the soy sauce or ask for a gluten-free alternative.

Dairy

I love cheese more than just about anything, but the fact of the matter is that some people suffer from a dairy allergy. I weep for them. However, there are still some stellar Boulder restaurants for people who suffer from dairy allergies.

The best way to avoid dairy in a restaurant situation is to eat vegan and lucky for you, there are a plethora of vegan restaurants in Boulder. If you can’t go without meat, eating paleo is a great way to avoid dairy. Fresh Thymes and The Corneroffer delicious dairy-free, meat-friendly options.

Nuts

Unfortunately, there’s not really a “nut-free” restaurant in Boulder, but many restaurants are very careful not to include nuts if you specify that you have an allergy. Any of the restaurants mentioned above are sensitive to dietary restrictions and will happily make sure that your meal is nut-free if that’s how you request it — just ask!

Shellfish

While this can be a pretty scary allergy to have, luckily, it’s fairly easy to avoid shellfish as long as you … don’t order shellfish. Also, if you have your doubts about a menu item, ask your server. There are some broth-based foods made with a seafood-based broth (especially in Italian and Mediterranean restaurants), so keep in mind that a lack of actual shellfish in the dish might not mean a dish is shellfish free.

Boulder restaurants are very conscientious of diners with allergies and do their best to make sure their customers have a delicious meal, no matter what their dietary restrictions. The above is a solid guide for locals and visitors alike so you can enjoy your Boulder experience without any unpleasant side effects. Well, at least side effects from your food, that is.

 

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John Marcotte
Marcotte Real Estate Group
720-771-9401

john@boulderhomes4u.com

Search for homes on my website @ www.boulderhomes4u.com

When thinking of Real Estate, think of John Marcotte
I’m never too busy for your referrals.

 

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DECORATING WITH YOUR CHILDS ARTWORK

DECORATING WITH YOUR CHILDS ARTWORK

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 All young children seem to love Art Class, and they can’t wait to bring their treasures home and have you post them right on the Fridge for everyone to admire.

If you’re preparing your home to sell, potential buyers need to see that fridge if it’s included in the Sale, so where does all that artwork go? Fun and interesting ways to display this art is individual picture frames of varying shapes and sizes. Yard Sales, Flea markets and Thrift Stores have great selections of various frames and the prices are right!

You can spray paint them in different colours, or all the same colour, whatever works for you. Try to find ones that can easily be opened up and pictures changed out on a regular basis.

Designate a display area in your home where this artwork can be viewed.

Your child will be proud of their masterpieces, and your fridge will stay shiny and magnet free! A win, win situation for everyone!

 

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John Marcotte
Marcotte Real Estate Group
720-771-9401

john@boulderhomes4u.com

Search for homes on my website @ www.boulderhomes4u.com

When thinking of Real Estate, think of John Marcotte
I’m never too busy for your referrals.

 

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HOW TO KEEP YOUR COOL WHEN SELLING A HOME

HOW TO KEEP YOUR COOL WHEN SELLING A HOME

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In my last post, I wrote about how to maintain your sanity when you’re buying a new home. Just as when you buy a home, the process of selling a home can make you feel like there are many circumstances beyond your control. Inconveniences abound when you are keeping your home “show ready,” and uncertainty about timing can take its toll. This can be particularly true if you need to move quickly.

Fortunately, there are a few strategies that can make your home sale more bearable from the day you make your decision to sell right on through the closing.

Rely on your agent’s advice.

An experienced real estate agent can be your best resource when selling your home. He or she will be able to help you with all the details, from setting a fair asking price to staging tips to proven marketing strategies designed to coax serious homebuyers to walk through the door. Use an agent you’ve trusted in the past or get references from friends and family. Your agent will be the partner you need so that you don’t feel like you’re going the distance alone.

Streamline everything.

Most people realize that a clean house has the best chance of selling quickly. In addition to de-cluttering and selling, donating, tossing, or storing your extra belongings, make sure your house is sparkling clean. Consider hiring a service to do the work for you. Tackle any small repairs or hire a handyman to help you do any minor work that could result in a home that will show better. Follow your agent’s advice for staging.

In order to keep your home ready for last-minute showings, prepare yourself for a move, and keep yourself organized, make checklists. Your home showing checklist might include tasks such as emptying wastebaskets, wiping down surfaces, stowing away dirty laundry or dishes, and even throwing a couple of windows open to infuse your home with fresh air.

To make it easier to keep your home clean, consider eating off of paper plates and plan meals that are easy to cook or don’t involve a lot of kitchen mess, like sandwiches, fresh fruits and vegetables, or foods that you can pre-cook and freeze during evening hours or other times when a showing is unlikely. Keep toiletries and other items you use every day in attractive containers that you can close and stow when buyers stop by to take a look.

Give yourself a break.

If you have the means to do so, get away from it all, whether that means eating a few meals out every week, spending a weekend away, or simply making the most of your time away from your house. Treat yourself to time at the library, the movies, or a local park to get away from your house while it’s on the market.

Focus on the future.

Instead of getting mired in the moment, keep your attention focused on whatever comes once your home sale is complete, whether it’s moving into a new house or taking your life in a different direction. A bit of anticipation for the future can make the inconvenience and uncertainty a lot more bearable.

While selling a home can be a little unsettling to your lifestyle, the long-term rewards will be well worth the effort. With a savvy agent at your side and some organizational tools in place, you’ll be able to weather the process and be on your way to whatever comes next.

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John Marcotte
Marcotte Real Estate Group
720-771-9401

john@boulderhomes4u.com

Search for homes on my website @ www.boulderhomes4u.com

When thinking of Real Estate, think of John Marcotte
I’m never too busy for your referrals.

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Colorado foreclosures fall

Colorado foreclosures fall

 

Foreclosure activity in Colorado fell by 35.7 percent in the third quarter from the third quarter in 2013, according to a national report released today.

The report by RealtyTrac, based in Irvine, Calif., shows that Colorado saw a much bigger year-over-year drop than the 22.7 average decline for the entire country.

Boulder, for was down 72.3 percent, while Douglas and Jefferson Counties dropped by 47 percent and almost 45 percent, respectively. Adams County showed a 38.8 percent drop. Denver saw foreclosure activity fall by only 3.9 percent.

Ryan McMaken, economist for the Colorado Division of Housing, who does his own analysis of foreclosure activity in the state, said RealtyTrac’s data are consistent with his findings.

“These latest numbers reflect what I’m seeing also in recent months,” McMaken said.

“My March data is still incomplete, but clearly the general trend right now is one in which numbers are up slightly, month over month, in recent months, while numbers still remains down 20 to 30 percent when compared year over year,” he continued.

“The total number (RealtyTrac) gives for the month – about 1,000 NEDS (Notice of Election and Demand) is certainly plausible, and at least in my data, those are numbers that we could describe as 6 or 7-year lows.

Nationally, there were 117,485 total foreclosure actions, everything from default notices to auctions of foreclosure sales, known as REOs, or real-estate owned. That was a 4 percent increase from February, but down 23 percent from March 2013.

“Now that the foreclosure deluge has dried up, banks are turning their attention back to properties that have been sitting in foreclosure limbo for some time,” said Daren Blomquist, vice president at RealtyTrac.

“This is most evident in judicial foreclosure states that were more likely to have impediments in the foreclosure process, but there are also signs of this catch-up trend happening in some non-judicial states like California, where an increasing number of judicial foreclosure filings boosted foreclosure starts in the first quarter.”

Colorado is a non-judicial state, which uses the public trustee system.

“Banks will also now be able to devote more resources to dealing with the lingering inventory of nearly half a million already-foreclosed homes that still need to be sold,” Blomquist continued. “Our estimates indicate only 10 percent of these bank-owned properties are listed for sale and more than half are still occupied by the former homeowner or tenant.”

In Colorado, it took an average of 305 days to sell a REO in the first quarter. Only Texas, Michigan and Minnesota took longer. Insiderealestatenews.com

 

John Marcotte
Marcotte Real Estate Group
720-771-9401

john@boulderhomes4u.com

Search for homes on my website @ www.boulderhomes4u.com

When thinking of Real Estate, think of John Marcotte
I’m never too busy for your referrals.

 

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DID YOU OVERLOOK THESE THINGS WHEN STAGING YOUR HOME TO SELL?

Do you ever wonder why some homes sell quickly while others remain on the market for several months and even years? While some things can’t be changed, like location and size of lot, there are things you can do to help make it an easier sale. It’s called home staging.

Home staging is basically the process of making a home more appealing to potential buyers. Staging can occur throughout the home — outside and inside.

Consider a home with neatly trimmed grass vs. one that has grass and weeds growing knee-high outside of the home. The immediate impression of the home can quickly change depending on how it’s staged.

Home staging can occur with simple changes or with renovations that will increase the value of your home and make the overall package more appealing to potential buyers.

Regardless of the degree of staging in a home, the important thing is to de-clutter. That means removing unnecessary objects and furniture from the home.

It’s not enough to simply store these items in the garage or a closet. It should go off site. You’ll be amazed at how much bigger your home looks with all the clutter removed. You may rent commercial recycling containers if you decide to start a major decluttering project before you list your home for sale.

There are also a number of other things you can do with your home when staging.

WALLS AND CEILING

A home with freshly painted walls and ceiling can go a long way when trying to sell. Chipping paint or stained walls can leave a bad impression.

Also, by going with a light, neutral color, you make your home more inviting and appealing to the general buyer. Sometimes bold wall colors that may look great to some can come off as tacky to others.

LIGHTING

Well-lit homes are more welcoming to potential buyers than ones that are dark and dreary. When a potential buyer walks into your home, you want them to get a sense of comfort — a place they want to be in.

Also be mindful of the type of lighting you have. For example, a chandelier in a small room can make the room feel even smaller.

ODOR

Before any scheduled visit, air out your home of any odors. Any foul odor — whether it is from pets or food — is often immediately noticeable. An impression of your home is already formed without having walked through it.

LAWN AND GARDEN

If you have a lawn in the front or a garden in the backyard, take the effort to tidy it up. Your home’s lawn may be the first sight of your home for potential buyers, so make it a good impression with trimmed grass. It wouldn’t hurt to have some flowers or a well-groomed tree planted outside as well.

 The backyard also needs attention and care. You want potential buyers to feel like it’s a place they can use and relax in, not a place that requires a lot of time and effort to clean up and keep tidy.

These simple touches to the home can make for a more attractive sale to any potential buyer coming by.

John Marcotte
Marcotte Real Estate Group
720-771-9401

john@boulderhomes4u.com

Search for homes on my website @ www.boulderhomes4u.com

When thinking of Real Estate, think of John Marcotte
I’m never too busy for your referrals.

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3 STAGING TIPS TO SELL A HOME FAST

It is possible to sell your home fast even in today’s competitive real estate market. While pricing and curb appeal often are enough to get potential buyers to your home, it’s often the “wow” factor they experience on the inside that seals the deal. Cleaning and de-cluttering are the first two steps in presenting a home at its best and you will find this fact 100% true in all cases. The next step is using a few staging techniques to make a solid, favorable impression on potential buyers.

Before showing your home to potential buyers, consider three easy staging tips.

Create a welcoming porch or entrance way.

Even homes with just a stoop or a small porch can make a welcoming impression to potential buyers, so if you are planning to build one, contact professional porch builders. Make sure the porch, steps and entranceway is swept and power-washed—don’t leave any cobwebs or bird droppings. Clean any outdoor lighting so it shines brightly when on and be sure to place a clean doormat at the front door. If your front door has windows, make sure those are clean as well. Add small, cheerful touches such as a flowering plants flanking the doorway. If there is room for furniture on the porch, make sure it is clean with attractive cushions. If you also happen to have an old oil tank in your backyard, then make sure to remove it with the help of an oil tank removal service. You may also consider adding a well installation in your garden with the help of professional well drilling services.

Set the dining table.

While it’s important to clear as many items as possible off the kitchen counters, it’s equally important to present the dining table as if it’s about time to sit down for a delicious meal. If you don’t want to set the table with a full dinner setting, simple set it with linen placemats, cloth napkins (either folded or in decorative rings) and cutlery. Include a centerpiece of silk or fresh flowers. Don’t leave any papers, books or other debris on the table.

De-personalize the bathroom.

Try to see each room of your home through the eyes of a potential buyer. Bathrooms are scrutinized by visitors during showings and open houses, making this room one of the most important to super-clean, de-clutter and de-personalize. Getting the grout sparkling white is a good start, but it’s equally important to remove all those personal products from the shower and countertops. Don’t just toss them in a cabinet. Purchase inexpensive, stackable baskets to hold your shampoo, creams and other personal care products and then store the baskets neatly in a cabinet or closet.

John Marcotte
Marcotte Real Estate Group
720-771-9401

john@boulderhomes4u.com

Search for homes on my website @ www.boulderhomes4u.com

When thinking of Real Estate, think of John Marcotte
I’m never too busy for your referrals.

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Boulder Colorado Communities

Boulder homes for sale

COZY, COLORFUL & COLLECTED: WHAT’S HOT AT HOME FOR 2014

COZY, COLORFUL & COLLECTED: WHAT’S HOT AT HOME FOR 2014

Written by Christina Kauffman

From the society to the runway, there are many factors that influence what’s “in” when it comes to Interior Design. In 2014 you can expect an overall collected look- mixing vintage with modern, masculine with feminine and natural elements with bold color and patterns. Here are a few of my favorite trends for the New Year!

In today’s society we are living longer which has allowed for a stronger relationship between grandparents and grandchildren, bringing forth a clean but collected look at home. Vintage, hand-me-down furnishings are modernized using bold color finishes and heirloom items are repurposed for functional use. Handmade crafts are making a comeback! Beautiful calligraphy art and cozy knitted throws will make you wish you had nifty craft skills like Grandma!

Due to today’s level of gender equality, men are spending more time at home and are now participating in design decisions. Therefore, we will see a more masculine influence in the upcoming years. The use of more strong and sturdy materials such as solid concrete in the kitchen and will become more popular.

This also means comfort will become the highest priority. Don’t panic ladies, that definitely does not mean big, bubbly recliners are back in style! Think of masculine design as a fine tailored suit, emulating both comfort and luxury.

Recently, on the runway a new Pantone color palate made it’s debut. Bold colors such as Yellow and Cobalt are trending for women next spring, and they will also become popular at home.

      
Whimsical accessories, vibrant art and patterned upholstery will sit against a neutral white background. Organic earth tones will also be used along with natural rounded elements like raw metal, wood and stone to keep interiors feeling classic. Color to watch – Pantone Freesia.

Trend For Thought…

Just because something is “in” doesn’t mean you have to like it. If you are intrigued by a new trend, adopt it. If it isn’t love at first sight, forget it.

Don’t be afraid to express yourself at home- if you fall in love with an emerald armchair that a nearby shopper claims is “so 2013”, get it anyway. Not everything in your home needs to match the Jones’. What’s most important is that you are inspired! The best and most comfortable homes reflect the personalities of those who live in them. So naturally, if your guests love you, they are sure to love what you’ve done with the place!

Boulder Luxury Homes

 

John Marcotte
Marcotte Real Estate Group
720-771-9401

john@boulderhomes4u.com

Search for homes on my website @ www.boulderhomes4u.com

When thinking of Real Estate, think of John Marcotte
I’m never too busy for your referrals.

 

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FSBO: BUYER’S BEWARE

FSBO: BUYER’S BEWARE

If you're considering the purchase of a FSBO, proceed with caution!If you’re considering the purchase of a FSBO, proceed with caution!

Seller May Not Disclose What Should Be Disclosed

When a house is listed for sale by a real estate broker, the seller is required to fill out a Seller’s Preoprty Disclosure.  There are a few exemptions to this requirement; New construction, condominium units, multi-family dwellings (5+ units), vacant land, transfer due to court order( i.e., estate, bankruptcy, eminent domain, divorce decree), and HUD properties.  The seller fills out this document to the best of their knowledge and must “disclose” any problems that they are aware of in their home.  When a buyer purchases a home that is multiple listed, they will acknowledge their receipt and review of the PCDS (by initialing each page depending on which version of the form is being used) and signing the final page.

A FSBO is not required to fill out a PCDS.  In addition, a FSBO may unintentionally (or intentionally, Caveat Emptor, meaning “Let the buyer beware”) not disclose an issue with their home or may not be aware of the items that they should disclose to a potential buyer.

Contract Time Limits Maybe Too Strict or Too Loose

A purchase and sale contract has many time-frames, deadlines, and contingencies that should be written in to protect a buyer.  A buyer’s agent, who knows the contract well, will know how to structure the dates for specific situations and circumstances.

An experienced buyer's agent will properly structure deadlines and time-frames.

Whether it’s giving enough time to get the inspection(s) completed, getting their clients mortgage commitmentlife of the offer, or writing a contingency for the sale and transfer of title of their existing home, an experienced agent should correctly structure the contract to ensure the sale gets done.  Some buyers utilize an attorney to draw the purchase and sale contract to send to the FSBO and unfortunately they may not have the experience with correctly structuring the contract dates, potentially due to them not having the total picture.  Without the buyer having proper Realtor representation a savvy “seller” could take advantage of a situation that may be in their best interest and not the buyers.  An example of this is “Offer Shopping.”  This is when the contract’s life is too long and the FSBO has the opportunity to sit on an offer and see if something better will come along.  This can be heartbreaking to a buyer.

Seller May Not Cooperate With Reasonable Repairs

When purchasing a home, a FSBO or not, we normally recommend hiring a reputable home inspector to have the home inspected.  Even if the home you’re considering to purchase looks “perfect” and that nothing could be wrong, having an inspection can give you additional “Peace of Mind.”  

Whether purchasing a FSBO or not, you should consider having a home inspection!

A home inspector is going to find items in every home that may not be up to current code.  One of the most important reasons to have a real agent representing you when purchasing a home is to negotiate the removal of contingency for any inspection(s) done.  Many real estate deals fall thru due to a buyer and seller not being able to agree to items discovered from the inspection.  This can happen because a buyer is being unreasonable with what they’re asking of the seller or the seller on the other hand, is not being cooperative with addressing reasonable repairs.  An experienced sellers agent should know what would be considered reasonable and what would be considered “Nit-Picking.”  Since the FSBO doesn’t have an agent representing them, they often resist when it comes to any reasonable repairs.

Seller Asking For An Unrealistic Amount For Their Home

You’re thinking of purchasing a FSBO because you’re getting a better deal, right?  This is the common thought process of buyers looking at a FSBO.  It can actually be the complete opposite.  Whether the seller had an agent complete a comparable market analysis and they didn’t like what they heard OR they want to save the brokerage fee, FSBOs are commonly overpriced by 10-25%.

A FSBO can be overpriced by 10-25% or MORE!
A FSBO can be overpriced by 10-25% or MORE!

If you don’t have a real estate agent representing you, how do you know if you’re overpaying?  A buyers agent will look at comparable sales in the area that you’re looking to purchase in and be able to explain to you what similar homes have been selling for and why.

You Maybe Responsible For Additional Costs Than If You Purchased A Non-“FSBO”

Generally, there are costs that the buyer should be responsible for when purchasing a home BUT also costs that the seller should be responsible for when selling.  A buyer typically would be responsible for the cost of an inspection (Home, Pest, Radon, Etc.) and the cost of their mortgage application.  People can also visit my site, for best pest control services, just make sure you know which pest you are dealing with, for example some people may need mice control while others may need carpenter ant control. A seller typically is responsible for an inspection ensuring that something is in good, safe, working order.  For example, if a home that is on a septic system, a real estate agent representing the buyer should write a contingency for a septic inspection at the sellers cost to ensure that the buyer is not purchasing a system that may have defects and request that the results be put in writing.  This may also pertain to a well water (potability) test.  A FSBO often times is not willing to pay for any inspections and could attempt to make it 100% the buyers responsibility. Read more here

John Marcotte
Marcotte Real Estate Group
720-771-9401

john@boulderhomes4u.com

Search for homes on my website @ www.boulderhomes4u.com

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