5 Reasons You Need a Realtor

“Why do I need a real estate agent?” YES!

1.A real estate transaction is COMPLEX! Whenever you buy or sell a home, you are going to be drowning in a sea of paperwork. It can be overwhelming and daunting. A Realtor will be there to help you dot all the “I’s and cross all the “T”s.

2. Time is money! Your money! Selling or buying a home is time consuming. You need someone working on the project full-time. Someone who is doing the groundwork, marketing the place, and networking to get your property out there.

3. Trust me, there is a language barrier! Real estate has its own unique language, and it’s even harder to understand then Greek. Don’t forget that the real estate community comes with its own customs too…In fact, it’s a whole ‘nother world! Your real estate agent – at minimum – will at least be your guide through this wild and wooly land, and will make sure you know everything about the property.

4. A good real estate agent will bring with them experience, and resources. This is not their first time at the rodeo either…The have bought and sold more houses then you will probably ever live in. They know the scams, they know the tricks, they know what to do…

5. Your Realtor can be a sounding board, an impartial observer, an objective commentator, and a wise sage. Your Realtor can help you deal with things logical during what can sometimes be a very emotional process. They will act as your aid and your ally, and can sometimes be the only person who truly knows what you are dealing with….Real estate transactions are heavy loads, and you will be glad to have an extra set of hands.


Would you like more information about the Mint Hill, Matthews and Charlotte area real estate market? Check out www.minthillrealty.com

Real Estate Market Report

CHARLOTTE is experiencing a buyers market with prices trending downward. Average prices of existing homes range from 180k and 240K

-->Based on all data from the Charlotte Regional Realtor Association, as of November 9, 2009 the average sales price of homes in our area was $195,244. This was an increase of 1.1% over November of 2008. amd .5% over October 2009.

-->A recent Trulia.com study indicates that 31% of the active listings in Charlotte have been reduced an average reduction of 9.1%.

-->Things have improved in the last several months, with home sales averaging about 800 per month, (up from the first half of the year it where it was about 600 per month).

-->With 6,831 homes on the market, there is about an 8 1/2 month supply of inventory in the Charlotte area was given the rate of sales.

-->It is still a buyer's market, but the price per square foot sold is up--showing a positive sign for our market. Prices on closed sales has been as low as $95.00 in the last year and is now at $105 per square foot on average.

-->The Charlotte Observer reports that foreclosures are increasing. Sales increased due to government incentives and current listing showing activity seems to indicate that the current 2010 government home buyer incentives are working.


Listen to us LIVE on the Radio every Saturday from 2-3pm. WBT-Talk Radio 1110am. - Talk to Rich Ferretti - Call 704.374.3500 with questions!


Would you like more information about the Mint Hill, Matthews and Charlotte area real estate market? Check out www.minthillrealty.com

Selling your home in Charlotte, NC

Dear Rich,

My husband and I are moving to the Ballantyne area from Uptown Charlotte. We know that this is a good time to buy -- and yet we obviously have to sell as well. Our home is in a desirable area and is a great home. But what can I do to get more people in, and have a higher chance of getting the old house sold so that we can seriously start looking at the available homes in Ballantyne.

Michelle in Uptown Charlotte (and hopefully soon... Ballantyne!)

Dear Michelle,

The real estate markets all over the country are going through a transition, and while the Charlotte market is strong, the days of quick sales and bidding wars pushing the price way up have past. If we look at thing realistically, homes are not selling as quickly as they have in recent years - good news for buyers (like you!) but bad news for sellers (like you!). But ultimately, homes still sell. Some go fast, and many will sell at prices that the sellers are happy with. There are of course ways you can give your house the best chance possible to sell quickly and close to your asking price. Here are a few ideas:

1) Clean and De-clutter. Less clutter in your home makes it look bigger, and cleaner. Go through your house and take away the garbage, junk and clutter--then go back through and put your off-season clothes in storage, (to make the closets look neat and big), and even consider removing some furniture if it is unnecessary.

2) Price it right. A home that is priced well above the neighborhood or above similar style and size homes will not sell quickly--maybe not at all! Your agent will work with you to get comparables and price the home right the first time.

3) Use a great real estate agent. A good real estate agent or broker can make all the difference in the world when we are in a "buyer's market." Hire an agent who knows the market, your area, and how to best advertise your property. It is perfectly acceptable to interview real estate agents and ask for references.

4) Fix it up! Interested buyers will ask for a home inspection. You’ll save time by getting a preliminary home inspection done and making repairs before your house goes on the market.

5) Be open to constructive criticism. Get feedback from potential buyers after a showing or open house. Accept negative comments openly, and as ideas for making your house more attractive at the next showing.


Best of luck finding a new home in the Ballantyne area, please do let me know if I can be of any assistance.

Regards,
Rich Ferretti

Want more information about the Charlotte area real estate market? Check out www.richferretti.com