FAQ
Questions people ask before calling
These are the questions I hear most often, and the straight answers I give. If yours isn't here, just ask: you'll get a straight answer either way.
How much is my home worth?
A home's value comes down to what comparable homes have recently sold for, adjusted for differences in size, condition, and features. Online estimates are a starting point, not a price. I'll pull the actual sales on your street and nearby, and put together a written comparative market analysis with a suggested price range and the reasoning behind it.
Is now a good time to sell?
In Wallingford, public data shows a fast market with values up year over year, so demand is strong. But the real question is whether selling fits your plans: your timeline, your next home, and your finances. I'll walk you through the market data and the numbers for your situation, and we'll decide together whether now makes sense for you.
What should I fix before listing?
Less than most sellers think. Buyers notice the first five minutes: curb appeal, the entry, light, cleanliness, and the condition of the kitchen and bathrooms. I'll tell you what's worth your money and what to skip, and I'll help you avoid over-improving for a market that won't pay you back for it.
How much will it cost me to sell?
The main costs are the real estate commission and closing costs like title, attorney fees, and transfer taxes. Real estate commissions are negotiable and always agreed to in writing up front. Under current industry rules, buyer-agent compensation is no longer advertised on the MLS, and buyers sign a written agreement with their agent before touring homes. Whether the buyer or seller side pays is worked out directly, and you'll see the exact number in writing before we move forward. Most sellers also spend something on prep, paint, or small fixes. Before you list, I'll itemize an estimate for your home so there are no surprises.
Do I need to buy before I sell?
No, and for most people it's easier to sell first or to line up both sides carefully. We can look at your options: selling first and finding your next home after, making an offer contingent on selling your current home, or coordinating closing dates so you're not carrying two homes. I'll lay out the trade-offs for your situation.
How do I choose the right listing price?
The right price is the one that attracts buyers and protects your equity. It comes from recent sales of comparable homes, what's currently competing with yours, and the pace of the market. I'll show you the comps and the strategy behind the number, and you'll make the final call.
Have a question that isn't listed?
Call or send a message. I'll give you a straight answer, and if I don't know something, I'll find out.