Yes, I know it's not just that easy. Many times it takes several years to work up to this decision.

Sometimes, when we begin to look at prospective new homes for you, that's the catalyst you need! An energy springs forth, and the goal is suddenly comfortable.

I find that my sellers will often call me well in advance of listing their property; my input and advice has been appreciated many times regarding what to paint (and what color), what to replace, what to put away, and what to check into prior to going on the market. I recently previewed a home newly listed; the sellers had just installed new carpet. Unfortunately, they selected a sculptured blue ….., with no idea that it would actually make the home harder to sell. Not many buyers today would choose that carpet, and most wouldn't want to replace brand-new carpet! Because I enjoy working also with buyers, I have a good understanding of what today's buyers are attracted to. I find that because my business is broadly-based, I can be especially helpful to my sellers in this regard. I also recall conversations with sellers who were considering doing things which I felt weren't very important to buyers, or perhaps wouldn't return their dollars spent. Now and then, I advise that the particular location of the property makes upgrading an unwise investment, or takes it beyond the value that the neighborhood can support. The idea here is that your commitment early-on to a good Realtor can increase the chances that you'll spend your fix-up dollars on things that matter, and you'll have the benefit of market-savvy advice.

Every year, it seems that some new issue rears its head and we have a new round of concern over such things as lead-based paint, "popcorn" ceilings, L-P manufactured siding material, or underground residential oil tanks. I'm here to assist my clients with disclosure issues and information on them as needed.

Prior to the official listing of your home, we'll discuss many things: what you should expect throughout the process involving agent previews and showings, how often you would like to communicate with me, your level of comfort with open houses, our schedule of advertising, and of course pricing and marketing strategy. My goals are to bring you a motivated buyer at a fair market price, within a reasonable time and at minimum inconvenience to you.

But let's be honest! This is a stressful time for sellers! You want everything to look its best; you try to leave the house tidy every morning. Add children, and it's lots harder. They need to buy into the commitment too. Your routines are disrupted to accommodate showings. You would really like to move forward with your life!

I'm there with you when the offer comes in. We negotiate all of the details with your buyer, and then negotiate again regarding the inspections. I advise you through the work order process and handle the paperwork. I follow up with the buyer's lender, the buyer's agent, and apprise you of how things are going through the coming weeks. The escrow agent sends you a huge package of papers to sign and return, and you call me asking "what is all of this?" You order the moving truck and contact the utility companies. Buyers and you sign documents at escrow, and closing follows within a few days. You are on to your next adventure! And it has been my pleasure to help you make it happen.