Staging your home is a powerful way to make it more appealing to potential buyers, helping you sell faster and often for a higher price. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to effectively stage your home, ensuring it makes a great impression.

1. Understanding Home Staging

What is Home Staging?

• Definition: Home staging involves preparing your home for sale by enhancing its appearance to appeal to the widest range of buyers.

• Purpose: The goal is to make your home look more inviting and showcase its potential, helping buyers envision themselves living there.

Benefits of Home Staging

• Faster Sales: Staged homes often sell faster than non-staged homes.

• Higher Offers: Well-staged homes can sell for a higher price than similar unstaged homes.

• Better Online Presence: Staged homes typically look better in photos, attracting more interest from online listings.

Preparing to Stage Your Home

Declutter and Depersonalize

• Remove Personal Items: Take down family photos, personal collections, and unique décor to create a neutral space.

• Declutter: Clear out unnecessary items from all rooms, closets, and storage areas. Less clutter makes spaces appear larger and more inviting.

Deep Clean

• Clean Thoroughly: Ensure your home is spotless. Clean windows, carpets, floors, and every nook and cranny.

• Freshen Up: Use air fresheners or scented candles to keep the home smelling clean and inviting.

Repair and Update

• Fix Minor Issues: Address any small repairs like leaky faucets, cracked tiles, or scuffed walls.

• Consider Upgrades: Simple upgrades like new light fixtures, fresh paint, or updated hardware can make a significant difference.

Staging Key Areas of Your Home

Living Room

• Furniture Arrangement: Arrange furniture to create a comfortable conversation area. Ensure traffic flow is unobstructed.

• Neutral Décor: Use neutral colors and simple décor to appeal to a broad audience.

• Lighting: Ensure the room is well-lit with a combination of natural light, overhead lighting, and lamps.

Kitchen

• Clear Counters: Keep countertops clear of appliances and clutter. Add a few decorative items like a bowl of fruit or a vase of flowers.

• Highlight Features: Showcase key features like updated appliances or ample storage.

• Organize: Clean and organize cabinets and drawers. Buyers will look inside.

Bedrooms

• Neutral Bedding: Use neutral and appealing bedding to create a restful atmosphere.

• Minimize Furniture: Keep only essential furniture to make rooms appear more spacious.

• Closet Space: Organize closets to show off ample storage space.

Bathrooms

• Spotless Cleanliness: Bathrooms should be immaculate. Remove personal items like toothbrushes and toiletries.

• Add Fresh Towels: Use new or clean, neatly folded towels to add a fresh look.

• Simple Décor: Keep décor minimal but add a touch of luxury with items like scented candles or a stylish soap dispenser.

Dining Area

• Table Setting: Set the dining table with a simple, elegant arrangement to suggest how the space can be used.

• Lighting: Ensure good lighting, and use a centerpiece to draw attention to the table.

Home Office

• Functional Setup: Arrange the space to showcase its potential as a functional home office.

• Declutter: Keep the desk clear and organize any office supplies neatly.

Outdoor Spaces

• Curb Appeal: Improve the exterior with landscaping, clean driveways, and a welcoming front entrance.

• Backyard: Stage outdoor areas with clean, comfortable furniture to suggest a relaxing space.

Creating the Right Atmosphere

Lighting

• Natural Light: Open curtains and blinds to maximize natural light.

• Artificial Lighting: Use a combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Color and Décor

• Neutral Colors: Use neutral paint colors to appeal to a broad audience.

• Simple Décor: Keep décor simple and tasteful. Use art and accessories sparingly to enhance but not overwhelm the space.

Scents

• Fresh Scents: Use subtle scents like fresh linen or lavender. Avoid strong or overpowering smells.

• Clean Air: Ensure the home is well-ventilated and free of any unpleasant odors.

After putting in a huge amount of time and effort to get your home looking good and ready to sell, your hard work is finally going to pay off: your home is on the market—you’re ready to begin showing. Your house should always be at-the-ready for a tour, as agents may bring clients by with very little notice. If they catch you unprepared and you aren’t able to show the house on the spot, you could be losing out on a sale. Concentrate on the following areas to ensure your home is ready to show:

1. People

Homebuyers may feel like intruders if you are present while they view your house, and this will affect their overall impression. Consider taking the opportunity to visit the local coffee shop, go shopping, or take the kids to the park. If you can’t leave while the house is being shown, try to be as unassuming as possible. Do not move from room to room. Don’t offer information, but make yourself available to answer any questions the agent or buyers might have.

2. Lighting

When you know an agent is bringing someone by, make sure all of the drapes and window shades are open to let in as much daylight as possible, or—if the showing is taking place at night—to create a look of comfort and warmth when viewed from the outside. Open all the doors between rooms to create an open, inviting feel. Turn on all lamps and overhead lights, even during the day. Keeping lights on during the day softens the harsh shadows sunlight can create in a room, and illuminates dim corners. During nighttime showings, make sure all outdoor lights are on, as well as pool lights.

3. Cleanliness

Scan the floor for debris—newspapers and magazines tend to accumulate without our noticing. Make sure all the counters are clutter-free. Empty the kitchen garbage before every showing, particularly if the garbage can doesn’t have a lid. Keep everything freshly dusted and vacuumed. Beds should be made and bathrooms cleaned (toilet lid down). Every room should sparkle.

4. Scents and Sounds

Avoid using scented sprays before showing your home. Some people simply won’t enjoy the smell, and others may be allergic. If you want to make a room smell pleasant, consider a potpourri pot or a naturally-sourced aroma.

If you or your family is home while the agent is giving a tour, try to stay as quiet as possible. Turn off the television and the blaring radio. Put on some soothing background music at a low volume.

5. Pets

If you have pets, make sure your listing agent includes this in your listing on the Multiple Listing Service. This way, no one will be surprised by a furry welcome if the agent shows the house while you’re not there. If you know someone is coming to tour the house, ideally you should take the pets with you, or arrange to have a friend or family member take them. If this isn’t possible, keep dogs in the backyard, preferably in a penned area. Try to keep indoor cats in one room while people are touring the house, and put a sign on the door.

Once you’ve minimized the clutter in your home, clearing out excess items and furniture, you’ll be ready to concentrate on repairs, cleaning, and decoration. Your goal is to get each room looking its sharpest and most fresh—the better your house looks, the greater your chances that it will sell quickly and for top dollar. Concentrate on the following areas to get your home into selling shape.

Walls and Ceiling:

Examine all the ceilings and walls for water stains or dirt. We don’t often look closely at the walls that surround us, so be careful—there could be residual stains from leaks that have long been fixed, or an accumulation of dirt in an area you hadn’t noticed.

Painting the walls may be the best investment you can make when preparing your home to sell. You can do it yourself, and relatively inexpensively. Remember, the colours you choose should appeal to the widest range of buyers, not just to your own personal taste. A shade of off-white is the best bet for most rooms, as it makes the space appear larger and bright.

Carpet and Flooring:

Does your carpet appear old, or worn in areas? Is it an outdated colour or pattern? If the answer to either of these questions is yes, you should consider replacing it. You can find replacement carpeting that is relatively inexpensive. And always opt for neutral colours.

Any visibly broken floor tiles should be replaced. But make sure you don’t spend too much on these replacements. The goal isn’t to re-vamp the entire home, but, rather, to avoid causing any negative impressions due to noticeable damage or wear around the house.

Doors and Windows:

Check the entire house for any cracked or chipped window panes. If they are damaged in any way, replace them. Test all windows, as well, to ensure they open and close easily. Try spraying WD40 on any with which you’re having trouble. This should loosen them up.

The same can be done with sticking or creaking doors. A shot of WD40 on the hinges should make the creak disappear. Check to make sure each door knob turns smoothly and polish it to gleaming.

Odour Check:

Begin by airing out the house. Chances are, you’d be the last person to notice any strange or unpleasant smell that may be immediately apparent to visitors.

If you smoke indoors, you’ll want to minimize the smell before you show your home. Take your cigarettes outside for a period of time before you begin showing. Ozone sprays also help eliminate those lingering odours without leaving a masking, perfumed smell.

Be careful if you have a pet. You may have become used to the particular smell of your cat or dog. Make sure litter boxes are kept clean. Keep your dog outdoors as much as possible. You may want to intermittently sprinkle your carpets with carpet freshener as well.

Plumbing and Fixtures:

All sink fixtures should look shiny and fresh. Buy new ones if scrubbing fails to get them into shape. Replacing them can be done fairly easily and inexpensively. Check to make sure all hot and cold faucets are easy to turn and that none of the faucets leaks. If you do find a leaking faucet, change the washer. Again, this is an easy and inexpensive procedure.

Finally, check the water pressure of each faucet, and look for any stains on the porcelain of the sinks or tubs.

Once you’ve covered all these bases, your house will be in prime shape for its time on the market. Congratulations—you’re ready to begin showing!

You’ve been saving for awhile, weighing your options, looking around casually. Now you’ve finally decided to do it—you’re ready to buy a house. The process of buying a new home can be incredibly exciting, yet stressful, all at once. Where do you start?

It is essential you do your homework before you begin. Learn from the experiences of others, do some research. Of course, with so many details involved, slip-ups are inevitable. But be careful: learning from your mistakes may prove costly. Use the following list of pitfalls as a guide to help you avoid the most common mistakes.

1.Searching for houses without getting pre-approved by a lender:

Do not mistake pre-approval by a lender with pre-qualification. Pre-qualification, the first step toward being pre-approved, will point you in the right direction, giving you an idea of the price range of houses you can comfortably afford. Pre-approval, however, means you become a cash buyer, making negotiations with the seller much easier.

2.Allowing “first impressions” to overly influence your decision:

The first impression of a home has been cited as the single most influential factor guiding many purchasers’ choice to buy. Make a conscious decision beforehand to examine a home as objectively as you can. Don’t let the current owners’ style or lifestyle sway your judgment. Beneath the bad décor or messy rooms, these homes may actually suit your needs and offer you a structurally sound base with which to work. Likewise, don’t jump at a home simply because the walls are painted your favourite colour! Make sure you thoroughly the investigate the structure beneath the paint before you come to any serious decisions.

3.Failing to have the home inspected before you buy:

Buying a home is a major financial decision that is often made after having spent very little time on the property itself. A home inspection performed by a competent company will help you enter the negotiation process with eyes wide open, offering you added reassurance that the choice you’re making is a sound one, or alerting you to underlying problems that could cost you significant money in both the short and long-run. Your REALTOR® can suggest reputable home inspection companies for you to consider and will ensure the appropriate clause is entered into your contract.

4.Not knowing and understanding your rights and obligations as listed in the Offer to Purchase:

Make it a priority to know your rights and obligations inside and out. A lack of understanding about your obligations may, at the very least, cause friction between yourself and the people with whom you are about to enter the contract. Wrong assumptions, poorly written/ incomprehensible/ missing clauses, or a lack of awareness of how the clauses apply to the purchase, could also contribute to increased costs. These problems may even lead to a void contract. So, take the time to go through the contract with a fine-tooth comb, making use of the resources and knowledge offered by your REALTOR® and lawyer. With their assistance, ensure you thoroughly understand every component of the contract, and are able to fulfill your contractual obligations.

5.Making an offer based on the asking price, not the market value:

Ask your REALTOR® for a current Comparative Market Analysis. This will provide you with the information necessary to gauge the market value of a home, and will help you avoid over-paying. What have other similar homes sold for in the area and how long were they on the market? What is the difference between their asking and selling prices? Is the home you’re looking at under-priced, over-priced, or fair value? The seller receives a Comparative Market Analysis before deciding upon an asking price, so make sure you have all the same information at your fingertips.

6.Failing to familiarize yourself with the neighbourhood before buying:

Check out the neighbourhood you’re considering, and ask around. What amenities does the area have to offer? Are there schools, churches, parks, or grocery stores within reach? Consider visiting schools in the area if you have children. How will you be affected by a new commute to work? Are there infrastructure projects in development? All of these factors will influence the way you experience your new home, so ensure you’re well-acquainted with the surrounding area before purchasing.

7.Not looking for home insurance until you are about to move:

If you wait until the last minute, you’ll be rushed to find an insurance policy that’s the ideal fit for you. Make sure you give yourself enough time to shop around in order to get the best deal.

8.Not recognizing different styles and strategies of negotiation:

Many buyers think that the way to negotiate their way to a fair price is by offering low. However, in reality this strategy may actually result in the seller becoming more inflexible, polarizing negotiations. Employ the knowledge and skills of an experienced REALTOR®. S/he will know what strategies of negotiation will prove most effective for your particular situation.

If you already own a home and you are thinking about moving, one of the first questions is simple, but the answer is not always easy.

Do you sell your current home first and then buy, or do you buy first and sell after?

There is no one right strategy. The best move depends on your budget, your timeline, your risk tolerance, and how competitive the market is for the type of home you want next. Below is a clear guide to help you choose the approach that fits your situation.

Option 1: Sell First

Selling first is the most common approach for homeowners who want certainty.

Why selling first can be a smart move

• You know your numbers. Once your home is sold, you know exactly what you have to work with for your next purchase.

• Your offers can be stronger. Without a sale condition, you can often write cleaner offers and negotiate more confidently.

• Less financial strain. You avoid the risk of carrying two homes at once.

• More flexibility in negotiations. When you have firm funds, you can act quickly on the right property.

The main risk

If you do not find the right home before your completion date, you may need temporary housing.

Questions to ask yourself before you sell first

• Do we have a backup plan if we need a short-term rental or family housing?

• How flexible is our move timeline?

• Would we be okay storing furniture and living in transition housing if needed?

Best for: homeowners who want certainty and are willing to be flexible on move logistics.

Option 2: Buy First

Buying first can work well in very specific situations, especially when the home you want is rare or timing is critical.

Why buying first can be the right call

• You secure the next home before it is gone. This can matter if you are targeting a unique property, a specific school catchment, or a lifestyle property.

• You avoid moving twice. If the timing works, you can move once and settle in.

• You can take your time preparing your current home. This can help presentation and marketing.

The big risk

If your current home does not sell quickly, you may be carrying two properties at once.

That can mean:

• double mortgage payments

• additional utilities and insurance

• higher stress and less negotiating power when selling

Questions to ask yourself before you buy first

• Can we qualify to carry both homes temporarily if needed?

• How long could we comfortably carry both payments?

• If the market shifts, can we absorb a lower sale price?

• Do we have a plan if our home takes longer to sell than expected?

Best for: buyers with strong financial flexibility, or those purchasing a rare home they do not want to miss.

Option 3: Buy With a Condition to Sell

A conditional offer is a middle option. Your offer to purchase is conditional on selling your current home within a set period of time.

Why this option can help

• You avoid committing fully until your home sells

• You can pursue a purchase without fully taking on the risk of owning two homes

The drawbacks to understand

• Sellers often prefer firm offers. A conditional offer can be less competitive, especially in a busy market.

• You may lose the home. Many conditional clauses allow the seller to keep marketing the property. If they get another offer, they can often ask you to remove your condition within a short window or step aside.

• You can feel stuck. While your conditional offer is active, it can limit your ability to jump at a better opportunity.

When conditional offers make sense

• slower markets

• niche properties where sellers expect longer timelines

• when your home is very marketable and likely to sell quickly

Best for: buyers who need to reduce risk but still want a path forward, and who understand they may need to firm up quickly if challenged.

A simple way to choose the right strategy

Here is a quick decision guide.

Sell first is usually best if:

• you need certainty on sale proceeds

• you want stronger negotiating power when buying

• carrying two homes would create stress

• you are flexible on possession dates or short-term housing

Buy first is usually best if:

• your next home is hard to find or highly specific

• you have strong financial flexibility

• you are comfortable carrying two homes temporarily

• your current home is expected to sell quickly and predictably

A conditional offer is usually best if:

• the market is balanced or slower

• the seller is open to conditions

• you have a clear plan and timeline to sell quickly

• you are comfortable with the chance of being bumped

Two practical tips that make any strategy easier

1) Know your home’s realistic selling range

A professional pricing review and market plan can help you understand what your current home could sell for in today’s market. That clarity makes every option less stressful.

2) Plan your timelines before you fall in love with a new home

Before you write an offer, think through:

• ideal possession date

• time needed to prep your current home

• financing timeline

• conditions and due diligence windows

Good planning reduces panic decisions.

Want help choosing the best buy and sell strategy?

If you are moving within Langley or the Fraser Valley, we can help you map out a plan that fits your goals, timeline, and comfort level. Sometimes a 15-minute conversation saves months of stress.

Wiggins Group Real Estate are local REALTORS® based in Langley, serving the Fraser Valley. We specialize in family moves, first-time buyers, and lifestyle properties, with clear communication and a practical approach.

Call or text: Denise 604-880-5603 Ian 604-897-2514
Email: info@wigginsgroup.ca

Budgeting for a home is not just about the down payment and the monthly mortgage payment. There are several one-time costs and a few ongoing expenses that can catch buyers off guard, especially around closing day.

This guide breaks down the most common costs buyers in Langley and the Fraser Valley should plan for. Some will apply to nearly every purchase, while others depend on the property type and your financing.

The most common one-time costs before closing

1) Deposit with your offer

When you write an offer, you will usually include a deposit. This shows good faith and is held in trust, then applied toward your purchase on completion.

Tip: Your deposit amount and timing can affect how competitive your offer looks.

2) Home inspection

A standard home inspection helps identify issues before you commit. For condos and townhomes, this can be paired with a careful review of strata documents.

3) Appraisal fee

Some lenders require an appraisal to confirm the home’s value for financing. If required, it is typically paid by the buyer.

4) Survey or title related documents

Depending on the property and lender requirements, you may need documents such as a survey, plot plan, or other title-related information. If a new survey is required, it is an additional cost.

5) Mortgage setup costs

Some lenders have fees connected to:

• mortgage application or setup

• interest rate holds

• broker arrangements

Many lenders do not charge an application fee, but it is worth confirming early so you are not surprised.

Taxes and government fees

6) GST on new homes

GST usually applies to new construction or certain substantially renovated homes. Resale homes typically do not have GST.

7) Property Transfer Tax in BC

Property Transfer Tax can be a major closing cost. Some first-time buyers may qualify for an exemption or reduced amount depending on eligibility and purchase price.

If you are a first-time buyer, it is worth checking eligibility early so you can plan accurately.

Legal and insurance costs

8) Legal fees and disbursements

Most buyers use a notary or lawyer to complete the transaction. Costs vary based on complexity, location, and the specific professional.

9) Home insurance

Home insurance is required by lenders for most financed purchases. If you are buying a strata property, you will still need personal coverage even though the building has its own insurance.

Moving and setup costs

10) Moving expenses

This can include:

• movers or truck rental

• packing supplies

• storage

• time off work

• cleaning

11) Utility and service connection fees

Some services charge installation or hookup fees, such as:

• internet

• cable

• security systems

• utilities in some cases

Closing-day adjustments that surprise buyers

12) Interest adjustments

Depending on your mortgage start date and completion date, there may be interest adjustments at closing.

13) Property tax and utility adjustments

On completion, you and the seller settle prorated amounts such as:

• property taxes

• strata fees, if applicable

• utilities, depending on the property

These are normal, but they can add to the closing amount you need.

Costs after you move in

14) Immediate updates and small renovations

Many buyers plan to paint, replace flooring, or update fixtures before settling in. Even small upgrades add up quickly, so it helps to budget a “first month” fund.

Ongoing monthly costs to remember

Strata fees for condos and townhomes

Strata fees usually cover common area maintenance and can include items like:

• building insurance

• garbage pickup

• landscaping

• reserve fund contributions

Strata fees vary a lot, so you want to understand what is included and how healthy the strata is before committing.

A simple budgeting rule of thumb

Many buyers find it helpful to budget a separate “closing and setup” fund in addition to the down payment. The exact amount depends on your purchase, but having a buffer reduces stress and protects you from surprises.

Want a clear cost estimate for your situation?

If you are buying in Langley or the Fraser Valley, we can help you build a realistic budget based on your price range, property type, and whether you may qualify for first-time buyer programs.

Wiggins Group Real Estate are local REALTORS® based in Langley, serving the Fraser Valley. We help buyers plan clearly so the process feels calm and predictable.

Call or text:  Denise 604-880-5603  Ian 604-897-2514
Email: info@wigginsgroup.ca

There is no set equation to determine how you’ll reach an offer price. Rather, the process involves a range of research and comparison that will vary with each situation. You’ll need to look at sales of comparable properties, and factor in additional data such as the condition of the property, the current market, and seller circumstances. With this information in hand, you will be able to determine a fair price range and, from there, establish the price you’re willing to offer. Concentrate on the following areas to help you determine an offer price:

Comparable Sales

• Compare prices of homes that are similar to the property you’re considering in the following areas: number of bedrooms and bathrooms, square footage, lot size, type of construction, and garage space.

• The most comprehensive and in-depth information can be accessed through the Multiple Listing Service (MLS). Your REALTOR®, who will be working closely with you to set your offer price, can help you navigate this service.

Property Condition

• Observe how the property compares to the rest of the neighbourhood. Is it average, above average, or below average?

• Look at structural condition: walls, ceilings, windows, floors, doors.

• Pay close attention to: bathrooms, bedrooms, condition of plumbing and electricity.

• Also check the fixtures: light switches, doorknobs, drawer handles, etc.

• What is the condition of the front and back yards?

Home Improvements

• Cosmetic changes can be largely ignored, but any major improvements should be taken into account.

• Take special note of: room additions (especially bedrooms and bathrooms).

• Items such as swimming pools may be taken into account, but usually won’t affect your offer. Your REALTOR® can offer you guidance in these matters.

• Also check the fixtures: light switches, doorknobs, drawer handles, etc.

• What is the condition of the front and back yards?

Market Conditions

Seller’s Market

• A seller’s market is considered a “hot” market. It happens when demand exceeds supply—more buyers than available homes.

• Homes typically sell quickly, with multiple offers.

• Many homes sell above the asking price.

Buyer’s Market

• Occurs when supply is greater than demand—more homes than buyers.

• Homes may stay on the market longer, with fewer and less frequent offers.

• Prices may decline, and buyers have more flexibility to negotiate lower prices.

• Sellers are more likely to respond with counter-offers if initial offers are low.

Balanced Market

• Supply and demand are roughly equal.

• Prices remain stable, and homes sell within a reasonable timeframe.

• Buyers have several options, and sellers may or may not face competition for offers.

Comparable sales information helps you establish a price range for the home you’re interested in. Adding in the additional factors mentioned above will guide your decision of whether you consider a “fair” price to be near the upper, lower, or middle limit of that range.

Keep in mind, this price should be one you’d be satisfied with once all negotiations are complete. The price you decide to begin with depends on your particular style of negotiation. Most buyers start negotiations with an offer lower than the “fair” price they’ve determined.

Each homebuyer has different ideas of what will constitute the ideal home for them, these notions often based on particular aesthetic preferences. But one thing that unites all potential homebuyers is the desire to find a home that is fundamentally sound—in areas beyond the immediate sweep of the eye—and that will provide a safe, comfortable, and efficient foundation for their life behind a new door.

This is where the services of a home inspector come in. During a home inspection, at least 30 areas of the home are placed under the home inspector’s “microscope.” We’ve compiled the ten most common weaknesses uncovered in a typical home inspection. If not addressed, these problems could cost you thousands of dollars in the long-run. So, knowing what to look for, and performing your own thorough pre-inspection, will help you to identify areas for repair or improvement before they grow into costly problems.

1. Damp Basement

• A mildew odour, which is difficult to mask, is often the first sign.

• Inspectors look for whitish mineral deposits on walls and judge whether items can safely be stored on the floor.

• Repairs may cost from $200 to $15,000.

2. Poorly Installed / Defective Plumbing

• Common in older homes.

• Inspectors test for leaks, clogging, and water pressure (e.g., faucets and toilet flush test).

• Dirty water on first use may signal rusted pipes.

3. Older / Poorly-Functioning Heating and Cooling Systems

• Inspectors assess the age and condition of systems.

• Cracked heat exchangers in forced air gas systems can leak carbon monoxide and must be replaced.

• Replacements improve efficiency and reduce energy bills.

4. Older / Unsafe Electrical System

• May include undersized service, aluminum or knob-and-tube wiring, or poor renovations.

• Over-fused circuits create fire hazards.

• Upgrading to a circuit panel costs several hundred dollars.

5. Older / Leaking Roof

• Asphalt roofs typically last 15–20 years.

• Leaks may indicate shingle deterioration or storm damage.

• Inspectors check how many layers of shingles exist before recommending full removal and replacement.

6. Minor Structural Problems

• Includes cracked plaster or slight foundation shifts.

• Common in older homes and should be addressed early to prevent escalation.

7. Poor Ventilation

• Bathrooms and kitchens without vents promote mold and fungus.

• Poor air quality can trigger allergies and damage surfaces.

• These issues should be fixed before permanent harm occurs.

8. Air Leakage

• Drafts may be caused by poor seals, old caulking, or worn weather strips.

• These are usually inexpensive and easy to fix.

9. Security Features

• Inspectors evaluate locks, smoke detectors, and carbon monoxide detectors.

• Missing or outdated security features should be updated for safety.

10. Drainage / Grading Problems

• The most common issue found by inspectors.

• Causes basement dampness and mildew.

• Solutions include new gutters, downspouts, or lawn re-grading to divert water from the home.

Finding a real estate agent who is right for you requires doing a little homework, and asking the right questions. Choosing an agent is a decision that could ultimately cost or save you thousands of dollars. Keep in mind the individual you choose will be handling almost every maneuver in the biggest financial investment of your life. Experience, interests, and expertise vary from agent to agent, so you should be asking very specific questions in order to align your own needs with the abilities of an appropriate representative. Use the following list of questions as a guide to finding the agent that is right for you:

1. How long have you been involved in residential real estate in this area?

If the agent hasn’t been connected to the residential real estate market for several years, s/he will be out of touch with the cyclical nature of the current market. Your REALTOR® must be familiar with trends of the local market and have an eye for the ways in which it will change. This knowledge could mean the difference of thousands of dollars in the long-run.

2. What is your marketing strategy for my home?

A REALTOR® should be able to lay out for you, in detail, a marketing plan to sell your home. Examine this plan carefully. How much money does the REALTOR® allot to advertising? What type of media does s/he use? S/he should be able to demonstrate the effectiveness of one form of media over another, explaining why his/her particular marketing strategy will sell your home faster and for top dollar. The REALTOR® should employ current, innovative marketing techniques that indicate creativity and a willingness to market outside of the box. Stay away from REALTORS® who rely on traditional, dated forms of advertising. They simply won’t work in the current real estate market.

3. How do you support a buyer throughout the process?

A REALTOR® should be able to indicate how s/he will support you through each step of the home-buying or selling process, offering you a unique system to suit your needs and goals. Also, ask if a specialist will be available at each level of the sale. Your REALTOR® should always be on hand to answer questions, but the specific resources of an expert can be invaluable during different stages of the process.

4. What other properties has your company sold in my area?

The REALTOR® should be able to provide you with a complete, detailed listing of their own sales in your area, as well as other comparable sales. You should get a clear idea of what you might be able to expect both from the REALTOR® and from the current market.

5. What is your experience with financing options? How would you suggest I approach my own financing plan?

Each buyer requires a different financing strategy. A REALTOR® should be able to suggest a plan catered specifically to your financial background and needs. Don’t just depend on your lender for information and guidance on financing a new home. Let your agent lead the way.

6. On average, how close is the selling price of your listings to their asking price, and how long do they take to sell?

You can contact the Real Estate Board to obtain information on the selling record of an agent. The Board also has statistics on a broader scale, so you can see whether an agent’s selling performance is higher or lower than the board average, and whether s/he tends to sell faster or slower than the board average. Placing the REALTOR®’s performance on a scale will help you get an idea of how much you might expect your home to sell for, and how long it might take to sell.

7. What is your philosophy/method of negotiation and how will you apply it when selling my home?

Your REALTOR® should be able to articulate effective and informed negotiation tactics that demonstrate a commitment to securing the best price for you.

8. Do you have a reference list of clients I could contact?

Do some homework! Choose a few names on the list and call them. The stories of others who have gone through the home-selling process can be a valuable source of information.