Rochester Real Estate | LOCAL Homes For Sale https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com Rochester Real Estate | LOCAL Homes For Sale | Homes for sale in Rochester, NY, LOCAL Rochester real estate listings, market data, REALTOR® info, and high quality content updated every 15 minutes! Wed, 25 Jun 2025 11:50:30 +0000 hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.2 https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/cropped-SITE-LOGO-512-x-512-1-32x32.png Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor – Rochester Real Estate | LOCAL Homes For Sale https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com 32 32 June Home Maintenance Checklist: 40+ Must-Do Tasks to Prepare Your Home for Summer https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/june-home-maintenance-checklist-summer-prep/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=20501 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> May Home Maintenance Checklist: 30 Essential Tasks to Prepare Your Home for Summer https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/may-home-maintenance-checklist/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=20484 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> April Home Maintenance Checklist: How To Prepare Your Rochester NY Home For Spring https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/april-home-maintenance-checklist/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=20364 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> March Home Maintenance Checklist: Get Your New York Home Ready for Spring https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/march-home-maintenance-checklist/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=20338 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> How to Buy a House in New York https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/buy-a-house-in-new-york/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19906 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> How to Sell a House in New York https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/sell-a-house-in-new-york/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19905 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Risks of Buying a Non-Warrantable Condo In New York: What You Need to Know https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/non-warrantable-condo/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19796 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> What Builders Should Know About Spec Construction Loans In New York https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/builders-spec-construction-loans/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19795 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Moving To The Finger Lakes Region Of New York | Guide To Relocating To The Finger Lakes https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/moving-to-the-finger-lakes-region/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19875 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Navigating the Numbers: The Pros and Cons of Using Online Home Value Estimators For New York Real Estate https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/pros-cons-online-home-value-estimators/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19794 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> The Role of Location in Home Valuation In New York https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/role-of-location-home-valuation/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19768 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Lowe’s vs U-Haul: A Review of Truck Rental Companies https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/lowes-vs-uhaul/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19758 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Understanding the Importance of a Seller’s Property Condition Disclosure https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/property-condition-disclosure-statement/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19632 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> What are Delayed Showings and Negotiations in Real Estate In New York? https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/delayed-showings-negotiations/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19547 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> 8 Viable Tactics to Selling Your Home and Moving Out of State https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/selling-home-moving-out-of-state/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19542 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Unconventional Methods for Selling a House: Thinking Outside the Box https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/unconventional-methods-for-selling-a-house/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19519 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Should I Sell My House Off Market: Pros and Cons Explained https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/sell-house-off-market/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19503 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> What is PITI and How Does It Affect Your Mortgage https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/what-is-piti/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19498 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> How To Set A Home Renovation Budget https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/home-renovation-budget/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19490 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> How Does A Co-Borrowers Credit Scores Affect A Home Purchase? https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/co-borrower-credit-score/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19474 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> New Construction Final Walk-Through Checklist: Ensuring a Seamless Home Inspection https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/new-construction-final-walk-through/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19458 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Essential Tips for Pumping a Septic Tank: What You Need to Know https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/pumping-a-septic-tank/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19450 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Can You Submit Multiple Offers On Homes At Once – A Legal And Ethical Analysis https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/multiple-offers-on-homes-at-once/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19414 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> How to Get Your Home Photo Ready for Real Estate Listings https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/real-estate-photo-ready/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19409 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> What Does a Home Builder’s Warranty Cover? https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/home-builders-warranty/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19394 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> July 2023 Greater Rochester NY Area Real Estate Market Update https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/july-2023-rochester-ny-real-estate-market-update/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19403 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Who Pays Real Estate Commission When You Buy or Sell a Home https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/real-estate-commission/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19366 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Quitclaim Deeds: What You Need to Know https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/quitclaim-deeds/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19358 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> What to Know About Selling a Home As Is for Cash https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/selling-home-as-is-cash/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19347 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> How to Know if My House Has Paranormal Activity https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/is-my-house-haunted/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19342 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Why Find The History of a House https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/find-history-house/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19316 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> June 2023 Greater Rochester NY Area Real Estate Market Update https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/june-2023-rochester-ny-area-real-estate-market-update/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19313 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> What Does a Real Estate Lawyer Do? https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/real-estate-lawyer/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19181 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> May 2023 Greater Rochester NY Area Real Estate Market Update https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/may-2023-rochester-ny-area-real-estate-market-update/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19162 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> What to Know About Buying a Home For The First Time https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/buying-home-first-time/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=19058 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> <strong>What Should a Buyer Look For at a Home Inspection?</strong> https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/what-look-for-home-inspection/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=18983 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Companies That Buy Houses For Cash Reviewed https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/companies-buy-houses-for-cash/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=18889 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Does Home Staging Work and What is The Cost? https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/does-home-staging-work/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=18814 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> What to Avoid When Getting a Mortgage https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/avoid-when-getting-mortgage/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=18797 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> <strong>5 Options For Replacing a Roof Reviewed</strong> https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/replacing-roof/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=18771 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> What Are Restrictive Covenants in Real Estate? https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/restrictive-covenants/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=18714 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Can The Court Force The Sale of Your House in Divorce? https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/court-force-sale-divorce/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=18693 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Real Estate Agent vs. Broker: What&#8217;s The Difference? https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/real-estate-agent-vs-broker/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=18650 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> How To Determine Square Feet In Your House For More Accurate Property Estimates https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/determine-square-feet/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=18167 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> 3 Things That Often Results in a Real Estate Agent Getting Sued https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/real-estate-agent-sued/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=18133 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> The Top 5 Types Of Home Inspections Buyers Should Consider https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/5-types-home-inspections/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=18119 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> The Pros And Cons Of Rent To Own Homes: What You Need To Know https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/pros-cons-rent-own-homes/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=18104 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> 5 Smart Things To Do Before Moving That Will Help Ease Your Transition https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/things-before-moving/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=18084 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> How to Become a Real Estate Agent https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/become-real-estate-agent/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=18071 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Renting A House Or An Apartment: Which Is The Better Option https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/renting-house-apartment/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=17871 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> The 5 Most Important Factors To Consider When Buying A House https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/5-factors-buying-house/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=17851 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> What Buyers And Sellers Need To Know About An Appraisal Gap https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/appraisal-gap/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=17827 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Pros And Cons Of Renting With Roommates – What You Need To Know https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/renting-with-roommates/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=17794 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> 6 Things You Should Know About Buying Land https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/things-know-buying-land/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=17773 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> How Long Should Home Sellers Wait To Respond To An Offer On Their Home? https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/home-sellers-wait-respond-offer/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=17745 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> How To Buy A House With A Low Credit Score https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/how-to-buy-a-house-with-a-low-credit-score/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=16819 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Things To Consider When Shipping A Car https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/things-to-consider-when-shipping-a-car/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=16248 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Home Depot Truck Rentals: What to Know Including Pricing https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/home-depot-truck-rentals-what-to-know-including-pricing/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=16156 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> 16 Things To Do Before Listing Your Home For Sale https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/16-things-to-do-before-listing-your-home-for-sale/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=16138 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> The Biggest Home Inspection Mistakes to Avoid https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/biggest-home-inspection-mistakes-to-avoid/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=16112 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> How Your Credit Score Impacts Your Ability To Buy A House https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/how-credit-score-impacts-buying-house/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=16086 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Top Winter Home Selling Mistakes | 7 Errors Made While Selling A House During The Winter https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/top-winter-home-selling-mistakes/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=16051 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Top Winter Home Buying Mistakes | 11 Errors Made While Buying A House During The Winter https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/winter-home-buying-mistakes/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=16013 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> What Address Change Form Should I Use At The Post Office? https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/address-change-form-post-office/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=15981 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> What Does Contingent Status Mean in Real Estate? https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/what-does-contingent-status-mean-real-estate/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=15956 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> DIY Renovation Ideas For Your Backyard https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/diy-renovation-ideas-backyard/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=15937 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> How to Rent Your First Apartment Guide https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/how-to-rent-an-apartment/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=15931 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Tips For Selling A Home Virtually https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/tips-selling-a-home-virtually/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=15907 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> The Complete Winter Storage Checklist For Your Belongings https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/winter-storage-checklist/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=15885 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Should I Waive My Home Inspection When Buying A House? https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/should-i-waive-my-home-inspection/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=15870 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> The Biggest Self Storage Companies Reviewed https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/biggest-self-storage-companies/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=15836 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Earnest Money and House Deposits Explained https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/earnest-money-house-deposits-explained/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=15760 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Moving Mistakes To Avoid https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/moving-mistakes-to-avoid/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=15568 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Top Mortgage Myths | Demystifying Common Home Loan Misconceptions https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/top-mortgage-myths/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=15102 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> First-Time Home Buyer Mistakes to Avoid https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/first-time-home-buyer-mistakes/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=14815 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> 10 Tips For Adding Appeal To Your Home This Summer https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/10-tips-adding-appeal-to-home-this-summer/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=14237 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Exploring The Merits of Smart Home Technology When Selling a Home https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/smart-home-technology-selling-a-home/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=13782 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Top Frequently Asked Questions From Home Sellers https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/top-frequently-asked-questions-home-sellers/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=2424 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> First Time Home Buyer Programs In Rochester NY &#8211; Updated January 2025 https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/first-time-home-buyer-programs/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock http://rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=580 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> How New Doors &#038; Windows Can Boost Your Home Value https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/how-new-doors-windows-boost-your-home-value/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=13643 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Top 5 Things To Know When Flipping Your First House https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/5-things-to-know-when-flipping-your-first-house/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=13574 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> What Are The Best Mortgage Options for Self Employed Borrowers? https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/mortgage-options-for-self-employed-borrowers/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=13450 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Top 10 Best Places To See Christmas Lights In Rochester NY https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/top-10-best-places-see-christmas-lights-rochester-ny/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=10236 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> What Are The PROs And CONs Of Multifamily Homes? https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/what-are-the-pros-and-cons-of-multifamily-homes/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=13219 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> What Low-Cost Home Improvements Should You Make Before Selling Your Home? https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/low-cost-home-improvements-you-should-make-before-selling-your-home/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=13114 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> 15 Things Millennial Home Buyers Look At While Buying A House https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/15-things-millennial-home-buyers-look-at-while-buying-a-house/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=13028 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> How Does A Fence Increase The Value Of Your Home https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/how-does-a-fence-increase-the-value-of-your-home/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=12995 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> 5 Simple &#038; Low Cost Fixes To Make Your Home More Appealing To Buyers https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/5-simple-and-low-cost-fixes-to-make-your-home-more-appealing-to-buyers/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=12779 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> How To Improve A Homes Curb Appeal In Rochester NY https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/how-to-improve-a-homes-curb-appeal-rochester-ny/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=12665 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> 7 Ways to Create an Energy-Efficient Home While Conserving Your Budget https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/7-ways-create-an-energy-efficient-home/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=12633 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Hiring Movers Vs. Moving Yourself | The PROs &#038; CONs Of Each https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/hiring-movers-vs-moving-yourself/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=12592 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Should You Pay Off Student Loans Before Purchasing a Home? https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/pay-off-student-loans-before-purchasing-a-home/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=12531 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Should I Build A New Home Or Buy An Existing Home? https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/should-i-build-a-new-home-or-buy-an-existing-home/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=2497 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> Buying A Condo Vs. Renting A Condo | What Are The PROs &#038; CONs? https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/buying-a-condo-vs-renting-a-condo/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=12402 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> 9 Money Saving Moving Tips | How To Cut Costs When Moving https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/9-money-saving-moving-tips/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=12341 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> How to Create a Proper Home Maintenance Checklist https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/how-to-create-a-proper-home-maintenance-checklist/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=12300 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> 5 Tips For Tenant Screening | How To Weed Out Bad Tenant Applicants https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/tips-for-tenant-screening/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=12291 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> The Best Social Media Blogs For Real Estate From 2017 https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/best-social-media-blogs-2017/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=12045 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> The Best Home Improvement Blogs From 2017 | Advice For Home Remodeling https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/best-home-improvement-blogs-2017/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=12044 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]> The Best Mortgage Blogs From 2017 | Advice For Home Financing https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/best-mortgage-blogs-2017/ Tue, 27 Jan 2015 12:00:51 +0000 Kyle Hiscock https://www.rochesterrealestateblog.com/?p=12043 Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing a Realtor[/caption] Choosing a Realtor is one of the most important keys to success when selling a home.  In most communities there are hundreds or even thousands of Realtors to choose from.  After all, obtaining a real estate license isn't the most strenuous of tasks.  Every state has different requirements but the majority require a certain number of class hours, the passing of an exam or two, and a small registration cost. Choosing the wrong Realtor can be the "kiss-of-death" when it comes to home selling success.  You should be able to know when you've hired the wrong Realtor because there will be many signs you should be able to identify.  The signs that point to the fact you've hired the wrong Realtor can be avoided if you're educated on some of the top mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Some of these top mistakes made by sellers may seem obvious, but unfortunately, sellers make them again and again.  Here are the top 10 mistakes made by sellers when choosing a Realtor. Choosing A Part-Time Realtor Real estate may seem on the surface to many as a career that it doesn't take lots of time and effort but one that leads to boatloads of money.  This is actually one of the top real estate myths that is heard over and over again.  Many Realtors get into the business part-time because they believe it can be done on a part-time basis.  This is the furthest from the truth. When choosing a Realtor, one of the questions you should absolutely ask is if they are a full-time or part-time Realtor.  If you think about it, how available will a part-time Realtor be to answer inquiries on your home if they are busy with an "8-5 job?"  In all likelihood, they will be busy completing tasks from their other position. In addition to answering inquiries, a part-time agent will struggle to have the time to promote and give your home maximum exposure.  One of the biggest "jobs" of a listing agent is to expose their clients home to the most people possible.  A Realtor who can provide maximum exposure for their clients should have a website that ranks well in the SERPs (search engine results page) which takes lots of time and effort to create and develop. Choosing A Realtor Without Asking For References Don't make the mistake when choosing a Realtor of not asking for past client testimonials or references.  One of the best ways to find out about how a Realtor works and performs is through past clients of theirs.  Top Realtors should be able to provide you with plenty of client testimonials or references. When choosing a Realtor, ask them if they have any past clients who you can call or e-mail.  Keep in mind, some people are not comfortable with allowing strangers to call them to discuss their experiences, so don't expect to get the phone numbers or e-mail addresses of the Realtors past 10 clients.  They should however be able to provide at least a couple that you can call or e-mail. Choosing A Realtor Because They Will Hold Your Home Open Every Week Open houses are a highly debated topic in the real estate industry.  There are some Realtors who swear by opens and others who despise them.  The fact of the matter is that open houses do not sell homes and there are statistics to back that fact up.  Can they help expose a home to potential buyers, yes, there is no doubt about that.  But is an open house necessary to sell a home? No it isn't at all. When choosing a Realtor, don't select one because he or she promises to hold your home open every Saturday and Sunday.  There are sellers who will choose a Realtor based solely because they offer to hold their home open every week.  Ask any potential Realtors what their thoughts and opinions of open houses are.  If a Realtor indicates they will sell your home because they are going to hold your home open every week, you may not want to choose that Realtor. [caption id="attachment_2357" align="alignright" width="450"]When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman! When Choosing A Realtor, Avoid A "YES" Man or Woman![/caption] Choosing A Realtor Who Is A "YES" Man/Woman We all know a "YES" man or woman in our lives.  "YES" people exist in all professions.  When choosing a Realtor, you need to avoid a "YES" man or woman!  Home sellers choose a "YES" Realtor to sell their home only to find out in the coming months they didn't tell them what they needed to hear, just what they wanted to hear. A perfect example of a "YES" Realtor is one who will tell a homeowner their home is ready to be listed for sale when asked if there is anything that should be done to prepare it for the market.  Telling a homeowner their home is ready even though they know it is not, can cost a seller valuable time as well as money.  Instead of recommending to a homeowner some simple staging tips and telling them the truth that they need to de-clutter or de-personalize, they just agree that their home is ready for the market.  The "WOW" factor is so important when a potential buyer is seeing a home for the first time. When choosing a Realtor, if he or she is always agreeing with everything you're saying, you may want to ask them a question that you know the answer is 100% "NO."  If they agree with you on this, do not choose them! Choosing A Friend Or Family Member When choosing a Realtor to sell your home, don't make a decision based solely on a relationship.  It's understandable that if you have a friend or family member in the real estate business that you'd like to give them the opportunity to sell your home.  If it could cost you thousands of dollars and months of your home not selling by choosing a friend or family member, it isn't a good decision, is it? If your friend or family member is a Realtor, explaining to them that you are going to interview them as well as a couple other Realtors, because you want to choose the best fit for YOU, should be sufficient.  It's not about your friend or family member.  Certainly if your friend or family member has a proven track record and still feels like the best fit after interviewing a handful of agents, by all means, select them to sell your home. Only Interviewing One Realtor A seller who knows how to properly interview a Realtor when selling a home can save themselves many headaches in the future.  A common mistake made by sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home, is they forget about this step in the process.  Interviewing more than one Realtor is strongly suggested. It's important that when choosing a Realtor you can compare one to another, because they are not all the same.  Not only are Realtors different, the companies that they work for are also different.  Each Realtor and their company will provide different tools for their sellers, advertise their homes differently, and also have different styles of selling homes.  One extra tip  to keep in mind when choosing a Realtor and interviewing them is that because two Realtors may work for the same company, doesn't mean they will provide the same service and utilize the same tools. Choosing A Realtor Because They Sold The "#" Homes Last Year Choosing a Realtor based on the number of homes they sold last year or in years past is not suggested.  Certainly choosing a Realtor who only sold two homes last year when representing a seller may not be the best Realtor to sell your home.  The same can be said about the Realtor who sold 50 homes last year when representing a seller. Every real estate market is different and can vary significantly from town to town.  Just because a Realtor didn't sell 50 homes in your town, doesn't mean they won't be able to get your home sold.  When choosing a Realtor don't make the mistake of not asking them how they plan on marketing your home and why they think they can sell a home in your town. For example, a Realtor who sold only 5 homes last year in the Webster, NY real estate market could be just as good if not a better choice than a Realtor who sold 25 homes in the same town last year.  Don't choose your Realtor based solely on the number of homes they sold, you need to dig deeper and get more details and make sure you're comfortable with them. [caption id="attachment_2359" align="alignleft" width="450"]Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price Don't Choose a Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Listing Price[/caption] Choosing A Realtor Because They Suggest The Highest Price Pricing a home right from the start is critical.  The price a home enters the market at will often determine if a home sells or not.  Choosing a Realtor because they suggest the highest price is a common mistake made by home sellers.  Before you choose the Realtor who suggests the highest price, you need to know how they have determined their price recommendation. There are many different pricing mechanisms for real estate.  Ask the Realtor who suggests the highest price how they came up with that price.  Ask them if they performed a comparative market analysis, also known as, a CMA.  It's important not only that your home is priced right to attract potential buyers, but also to make sure there are no issues in the future with a bank being able to substantiate the value during their appraisal. Choosing A Realtor Based Only On Commission First things first, commission is negotiable.  Any Realtor who says differently is not being truthful.  Commission rates can vary from town to town and state to state.  When choosing a Realtor, it's likely that the majority of Realtors will have the same commission percentage.  A huge mistake made by home sellers when choosing a Realtor to sell their home is selecting the agent who offers a significant discount on their commission. Why is this a problem?  It sounds great that you would save money, right?  Wrong.  If a Realtor agrees to a lower commission with no resistance or very little, can you imagine how strong their negotiations will be on your behalf when you receive an offer?  In addition to their negotiation strength, if a Realtor is working for less than the "normal" commission, do you truly believe they will spend their money advertising your home? When it comes to choosing a Realtor based on commission only, I always say, "you get what you pay for."  A Realtor who offers to cut their commission is likely doing this out of desperation to obtain a contract to sell your home. Choosing A Realtor Because They Advertise On Third Party Websites Have you heard of the companies, Zillow or Trulia?  Most people who have knowledge on the real estate industry or have bought or sold a home in the recent past have heard of companies such as Zillow or Trulia.  These companies are household names in real estate.  They are also known as third party real estate websites.  Third party real estate websites are not locally owned and operated. These companies solicit Realtors to advertise on their websites and "buy leads" that come in on their websites.  When choosing a Realtor, don't hire because they advertise on third party websites.  These third party real estate websites are generally very inaccurate when it comes to the data they provide consumers.  Have you ever heard of a "Zestimate?"  A "Zestimate" is a home value estimate that Zillow provides on their website.  There are many resources that are out there detailing the inaccuracies of the "Zestimate" as well as other third party real estate websites. For example, as a home seller, you wouldn't want your home to be featured on Zillow if the "Zestimate" was $25,000 lower than your listing price.  Today's home buyers are very well educated.  If a potential buyer visits your home, it's a very strong possibility they will be checking out your home online to see what the online values are saying.  If they see a value that is $25K less than your list price, this can often lead to low-ball offers and the frustration that comes with them. Final Thoughts Choosing a Realtor plays a huge role in whether your home selling process will be successful or not.  The above mistakes are commonly seen and now you should be able to avoid making these critical mistakes that so many home sellers do.  Remember, selling a home does not have to be an impossible task, especially with the guidance and expertise of a top Realtor. Other Home Selling Resources If you're planning on selling a home in Rochester, NY, please be sure to avoid the above mistakes when choosing a Realtor.  We'd love the opportunity to interview for the job of selling your home.  Contact us so we can show you why we are Top Rochester, NY Realtors and why our clients homes get maximum exposure!  
About the authors:  The above article "Top 10 Mistakes Made By Sellers When Choosing A Realtor" was provided by the Keith Hiscock Sold Team (Keith & Kyle Hiscock).  With over 30 years combined experience, if you’re thinking of selling or buying, we’d love to share our knowledge and expertise. We service the following Greater Rochester NY areas: Irondequoit, Webster, Penfield, Pittsford, Fairport, Brighton, Greece, Gates, Hilton, Brockport, Mendon, Henrietta, Perinton, Churchville, Scottsville, East Rochester, Rush, Honeoye Falls, Chili, and Victor NY. Visit our website at www.HiscockHomes.com.]]>