Real Estate in Northeast Florida and Around the World

You've decided to sell your house, you've found your Realtor, discussed the price and signed the listing documents.  Congratulations - this is a huge step and one that takes a lot of emotional and physical fortitude to accomplish.  But it is still not time to celebrate.

Ring, Ring - you have just been notified that someone wants to see your house.  Congratulations - but still not time to celebrate.  While your house will not be sold unless it is seen, typically there will be many buyers preview your house before an offer is submitted.  Be patient, keep the faith and keep the house in showing condition.

Ring, Ring - your Realtor just called and has informed you that an offer has been received.  Congratulations!  Oh, what's that?  It's 5% less than your asking price and the buyer wants you to pay closing costs?  Deep breath.  After discussing options with your Realtor, you decide to accept, counter or reject......but still not time to celebrate.

Ring, Ring - your Realtor just called and you have a ratified contract.  Congratulations!  Yes, this is a milestone moment, but save that champagne.  There is loan processing for the buyer, inspections to be done and titles to be searched.  Keep packing but don't uncork that bottle just yet.

Ring, Ring - your Realtor just called.  The buyer's lender has not yet approved the buyer - that preapproval didn't account for unverified items, and they are having a hard time with the verifications.  Breathe slowly and deeply.  There is nothing you can do but pray (unless you want to offer seller financing).  Keep packing.

Ring, ring - your Realtor just called.  They buyer's financing has been fully approved, closing confirmed and in just a few days.  Packing is almost done, but you are reluctant to celebrate.  You are getting the hang of this.

Cha-Ching - that is the sound of the closing being finalized.  All documents are signed and the check is now in your hand.  NOW YOU CAN CELEBRATE!!!

Now, I did not write this to be discouraging to anyone.  This is a reality check.  There are many moving parts in a real estate transaction, and the message I want to convey is that when you work with a Realtor, you have a partner to help keep the moving parts moving, and hold your hand along the way.  If you are considering selling your house, and are not yet working with a Realtor, please give me a call.  I'm probably working in your neighborhood - so look for me and give me a wave!!