Nov 12, 2010
The Homeowner’s Assistance Program (HAP) is a selling program for military and federal civilians who face financial loss when selling their primary residence. This a wonderful program that I have found to be very helpful for my sellers, and many people don’t know that it exists.
The Army Corp. of Engineers will reimburse sellers up to 95% of their loss prior to closing, which enables sellers to sell even when they are “underwater”. If that benefit is not enough, they will purchase your home from you to help you sell. I just completed a sale where the homeowner bought the property in 2006 for $350,000, was relocated and sold the home for $260,000. Because this seller would still owe over $20,000 if they were given the 95% reimbursement ($4,500 remaining payoff on mortgage, $15,600 in brokerage fee, and their own closing costs), the DOD bought their home from them, paid off their mortgage, and conveyed it to the buyer. The sellers in this particular transaction only had to come to the table with $2,600. The DOD even paid their real estate agent’s brokerage fee!
Tell your friends and family about this little known benefit, and call me if you have any questions. I will be happy to walk you through the process
Margaret Richardson
Work: (757) 539-2111
Cell: (757) 635-9546
Aug 26, 2010
You usually just have one chance at impressing potential homebuyers, so make sure the interior of your home is clean, uncluttered and attractive.
- Clean regularly—everything from floors to windows should be spotless!
- Clean everything—including ovens and major appliances
- Add a fresh coat of paint where needed
- Make sure curtains and window treatments are clean and in good shape
- Remove excess furniture to make the rooms look more spacious
- Pack away most of your home photos and personal collections, so buyers can envision their own possessions in your home
- Decorate with plants
- Remove excess clutter by putting away small kitchen appliances and items that sit on counter tops and tables
- Eliminate any offensive odors. If you have pets, please “Fabreeze your interior before showings.
Aug 26, 2010
First impressions are very important in the selling process. A large percentage of homeowners decide whether or not to look inside a home based on its curb appeal, or how it looks when your drive by. Make sure your home’s exterior looks its best. Before you list your home, be sure to:
- Clear away any unnecessary garden implements and tools
- Clean the windows and gutters
- Pressure wash dirty siding and deck areas
- Make sure the sidewalks are clean
- Weed, edge and mow regularly
- Rake and dispose of leaves
- Trim tree limbs that are near or touching the roof
- Mulch plant beds
