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Selling Your Home

Whether you are upgrading to a new home, downsizing, or simply want a change, we will provide the guidance you need as you prepare to place your home on the market.

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We can help – before and after

In addition to providing guidance as you prepare to sell your home, we can assist you in finding a mortgage for your next home. Using our strong community relationships, we can help you identify real estate agents, neighborhoods, school districts, entertainment areas and services in your new location.

Getting Started

Hire a real estate agent who knows your market.

Find referrals, conduct interviews and research their sales records before making your decision.

Real Estate Photography

Since many potential buyers will first view your home online, quality photography is a critical element as you market your home. Make sure you know who will take the photos and/or video of your home and whether that person has experience in real estate photography.

Setting a Price

Your real estate agent should help you set a price based on sales records of comparable homes and an analysis of your market and neighborhood. Setting a price too high could cause your home to suffer on the market or ultimately sell for a lower price.

First Impressions

Declutter and decorate your home well before it goes on the market to ensure potential buyers view your home at its best. Consider rearranging furniture or utilizing storage to maximize space and overall appeal. Give rooms a fresh coat of paint (if needed) and take care of your lawn and any outdoor furniture.

Professional Prep

Consider a pre-sale home inspection to identify any mechanical or structural defects. It’s much better to make repairs in advance of a sale or disclose potential problems than to be surprised after a potential buyer obtains their own inspection. In most cases, sellers are required to disclose any known defects.

On the Market

It’s showtime.

 

Prepare

Keep your home tidy and ready for showing on short notice. You never know when a potential buyer might want to see your home.

Feedback

Ask your real estate agent to review comments and impressions from the first showings of your home, including tours, individual appointments or routine open houses. This feedback can help you decide if you need to take any action to improve your chances of a sale.

Choosing a Buyer

When you receive an offer, you have the option to accept, make a counter offer or reject it.

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Accepting an Offer

Consider these variables before accepting an offer.

  • If the offer is less than anticipated, get creative in seeking favorable terms.
  • Is the offer contingent upon the sale of the buyer’s current home?
  • How is the buyer financing the purchase?
  • How quickly can you close?

Closing the Deal

Gather paperwork

Organize all the documents necessary to close on the sale of your home, including your original purchase contract, mortgage, survey of your property, appraisal, tax record and an inspection. Consider whether you need to consult a tax or real estate attorney regarding the proceeds of your home sale.

Costs to consider

Before closing, you should understand what costs fall under your responsibility. Costs may include real estate commission, appraisal, mortgage payoff, transfer tax, title insurance, title search, current property taxes, homeowners association fees, recording fees and any credits offered to the buyer.

Your next address

We are prepared to help you with every aspect of selling your home, including your search for your next home.

We can help you get there

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Home Loans

Whether you are relocating to a new community, refinancing, buying your first home or moving into a new home, we’ll guide you through the home financing process. As your trusted advisor, our focus is on finding the mortgage that fits your needs, so you can focus on finding your perfect home.

LEARN MORE about Home Loans.
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Purpose of Financial Planning

The purpose of a financial plan is to define how your income and assets can provide for a lifetime of happiness. Healthy savings habits, spending discipline and appropriate investments are necessary to meet your goals. But, you need more than just a plan.

LEARN MORE about how we can help you with Financial and Retirement Planning.
Dawn Merritt
Dawn Merritt, VP Senior Mortgage Loan Officer, Racine, WI

Your Trusted Mortgage Loan Officer

Whether you are buying your first home or moving into a new home, we will be there to guide you every step of the way.

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