Environmental Issue & Sick Building Syndrome Blog

    There is nothing like going through the Real Estate sales experience as a buyer or seller to grab your full attention and maybe a few sleepless nights.     

    The technical issues surrounding buying and selling property are much simpler than the emotional issues. Is the home safe? Is it in good shape? What needs fixed? What is the best way to repair the building? That’s the easy part.     

    Living through the “people” issues is much more complicated. From listing to closing, it is a roller coaster ride with ups, downs and gut wrenching turns and bumps. Uncertainty abounds in the whole process.

    It starts with the fact that the reason behind buying or selling a home is usually a life changing event. It may be marriage, divorce, having a family, having a family grow up, getting a job, promotion, transfer or losing a job. You get the picture. A fundamental life change in life starts the stress. Hang on as you go through the Real Estate process.    

Understand the Challenges and Take Action Step by Step

• Get a feel for the house you are interested in. Internet viewing and Open Houses will help. Do a list of what are “wants” and “needs.” Then be prepared to see that list change.

• Deal with your household “stuff.” Sort and throw or give away unneeded items to make the sale and move easier.

• Decide if you are more comfortable if you first find a new house or sell the old home. Be prepared that it may not work out that way.

• Select a lender where you are comfortable…….or maybe just not too uncomfortable. The lending process is invasive, arbitrary and sometimes downright humiliating at times.

• Obtain a “pre approval” amount and letter to qualify for a mortgage

• Obtain a realistic sales price for your home for listing the home.

• Select a Realtor, Real Estate attorney or “For Sale by Owner” method that meets your needs. Then take the time to find a professional that fits your personality and needs.

• Understand the cost of moving into a new house. Issues like needing to purchase appliances can influence your Real Estate transaction.

• Explore and consider the value that may be added by completing renovations or repairs on your home before listing.

• Obtain an occupancy inspection. That will need to happen before closing no matter what, and you do not want expensive surprises like needing a new sewer line as a condition of closing.

• Consider a Pre-Market home inspection. That can increase the chance of selling a home without the deal falling apart or getting hit with a big price reduction after a buyer’s home inspection.

• Clean house, de-clutter, get rid of odors and any other distraction

• No matter what happens, focus on the deal, not the people. Do not let bad behavior keep you from making the best decisions for your needs.

• Changing and picking your utilities. The good news is that we have choices. The bad news is that we have choices and they are complicated.

• Be prepared for a stressful closing. It will be a difficult day.