Hi everyone. I wanted to let you all know that I will be writing a weekly blog with information about our LOCAL real estate market.
I hope you'll find it informative, entertaining and useful. I promise to keep it short and to the point. I will feature answers to questions that are asked of me and other agents that I work closely with. I want this to be interactive so if you have a question, or a topic that you'd like for me to address, call me, 770-654-6656, or email me at kim.craft@coldwellbanker.com.
I'll start this week with a question that is by far the most asked of myself and my colleagues lately.
Q: So, how's your business?
A: My business is great. 2007 was a record year for me with over $6 million in total property closed. 2008 is starting off great as well. There are currently a lot of homes on the market and some great values out there right now. I tell people nearly everyday that if you're even thinking of buying a home, moving up to a larger home or downsizing, DO IT NOW! Interest rates are at nearly 5.5% (Check back with me next week.) Lenders are still loaning money to qualified buyers and there are still several programs for qualified first time home buyers with little or no money down.
Q: How can I sell my home in a reasonable amount of time in this market.
A: Hire a FULL TIME, aggressive marketing, professional REALTOR. (I just happen to know one if you need a recommendation.) When I'm on a listing appointment with a potential client, I tell them, first of all, you have to price your home competitively. Have your REALTOR provide you with an in depth competitive market analysis, (CMA), that will show homes that are similar to yours in your area that are currently on the market. Look closely at the ones that are the most similar to yours and MAKE YOURS STAND OUT. The best way to do this is price it a little lower than the rest, or at least toward the lower end. Other ways to make your home stand out is to offer incentives like paying closing costs, leaving the riding mower or flat screen or offer a gift card at closing. This is where your aggressive marketing REALTOR comes in. We can offer suggestions on how to make your home stand above the rest. Remember, buyers are very savvy now days and they are looking longer and at more homes before deciding on the one they want to make an offer on. Always keep your home in, "Showing condition" as well. (More on this in a future blog.)
Well that's it for this week. I promised to keep it short so you'll want to keep coming back.
Remember, call me if you have any questions.
Thanks for your time!
Kim Craft is a professional REALTOR in the Gainesville/Hall, White, Habersham, Lumpkin, Dawson, Jackson and Gwinnett county areas.
He can be reached at:
Cell: 770-654-6656
Email: kim.craft@coldwellbanker.com
Website: www.kimcraft.net
Kim's listing of the week. 890 Longstreet Circle in Longstreet Hills Gainesville, Ga. 30501
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