Prepare to be Impressed

Open House Today from 1:00-3:00

5055 Eastridge Drive in Stone Lake Estates

"Keep it Simple, Stupid"

OK OK, I'll admit I hate that saying- thanks to my mom who didn't think stupid was an appropriate word to describe anything- much less anyone, but I feel like it applies here so maybe she'll let it slide this time.... along with all of my punctuation errors.

THINK FAST, What's Earnest Money?
Unless you're in a career related to real estate the term "Earnest Money" may sound very foreign to you. Of course if you're anything like me, you'll just "Google" it and find out in a split second. (How did anyone function before Google?)

I could go on and on for paragraphs (YAWN), but instead let's keep it simple. Earnest Money as it applies to Texas Real Estate is a good faith deposit (made by a buyer) that is deposited into an escrow account at the title company within approximately 24-48 hours of your offer being accepted into contract.

A few good questions I've been asked:

• How much does it need to be?
• It really depends on the circumstance and purchase price. I've personally seen anywhere from $300-$5,000 in our market.
• Do I make the check out to the seller?
• No, make it out to the title company that will be closing the sale.
• Will it be cashed before our closing date?
• Yes, please be prepared for it to be cashed right away.
• What happens if I decide not to buy the house?
• If you back out during your option period (stay tuned for another blog topic on those!) your earnest money will be refunded to you less any inspection fees you may have already incurred. It gets a little more complicated after the option period, but your Realtor ® will be able to explain it- just ask!
• Do I get it back at closing?
• The earnest money is applied first to your downpayment and then to your closing costs. Any excess will be refunded to you.

Looking to buy or sell in the Wichita Falls area? I'd love to earn your business!
~ Tanya

Your 5 Senses

What's the one question 9 out of 10 sellers ask me

during a listing appointment?

"Do open houses work?"

I always tell them, "that's a great question!" Whether you're a Realtor or a Seller you're sure to have an opinion on open houses. For what it's worth, I'm a believer!       

I will take every opportunity I can to draw attention and traffic to my listings.

If you have an open house coming up,

   remember your 5 senses.

Sight: First and Foremost, have your house as picture perfect as possible. Turn on all overhead lights and lamps. Don't forget to open your blinds as well!

Smell: Does your home pass the sniff test?  Switch on the scentsy, light some candles or spray some Febreeze. The last thing you want is a less than passing grade on the sniff test.

Hearing: Complete silence can make an open house buyer feel awkward. Yet, I don't want them to feel like they have to talk to me non-stop either. After all, I'm there to show off the house not how much I can talk!  Turn on some soft instrumental or low volume music for background noise.
Touch: This is an easy one to overlook. When buyers shop for a home they touch surfaces, make sure the morning breakfast crumbs or tooth paste splatters have been wiped from your counter tops.
Taste: Last, but certainly not least- feel free to leave cookies or refreshments out for your open house attendees. If I happen to be your Realtor, I'll bring those with me! My husband loves the leftovers and it gives you time to get your home ready to be shown.  

Remember, your home only has one chance to make a good first impression.

Cat Lady

Here is one of my deep, dark secrets... I'm a crazy cat lady!  It wasn't intentional, but at some point during my college days I became one.  The current cat that rules my home and has for the past 6 years is "Pony".  It's a long story... she's a cat that acts like a dog that looks like a Horse... that's the short and sweet version.

If you've ever attempted to sell your home while owning pets of any sort; you understand there are obstacles to overcome in order to show your house. Not everyone loves or even likes pets (GASP!). Here are a few tips I'd like to pass along from a fellow Realtor, Blogger and most importantly Pet Lover, Shannon Millegan:

• Inform your agent. This is simple enough but is often overlooked. When you list your home with your agent, make sure they are aware of how many and what kind of animals you have. This information is needed to make note of the pets in the MLS system. When a buyer agent is aware of a pet in the home, they can prepare their buyer before entering. (And will remind them to use caution to not let your beloved pet outside when they open the door!)
• Remove your pets for a showing. I know, this is easier said than done. But, if it is at all possible, try and make arrangements for your animals to be elsewhere . If you work from home, take your furry friends with you for a car ride. If your mom or generous friend lives down the street, see if they would take them in during showing periods. Consider doggy daycare as yet another option. This will allow potential buyers to look at your home with out the distraction of a jumping dog or overly friendly cat.
• Can’t remove them? Contain them. If you absolutely can not remove your pets for a showing, it is imperative that you keep them contained to one section of the home. The laundry room, unfinished basement, or garage would work well. Make sure to post a sign (printed from the computer!) on the door as a warning to your potential buyer and their agent. Although they may be disappointed they can not access one of these rooms, it is better than them not looking at all because you have a barking dog guarding your front door!
• Keep their things tidy. Keep a litter box out of sight and be sure to clean it every day. Organize all of your dogs toys and bones and put them away in one spot. Keep their food areas neat and clean.  Don’t let a foul odor or untidy pet spaces be the reason a buyer walks back out the door.