Overwhelmed with Selling Your Home? This will help!! Audra Lambert 2024

Selling a House is Stressful and Overwhelming! Tips to assist!
This video discusses the obstacles to overcome when selling a property. This video will help home owners set the proper expectations and assist with getting moving forward if they have interest in selling but are struggling with the idea.
Looking to interview realtors in your area? I can connect you to a few in your area! Just fill out this this information in the link below and we will coordinate a few agents for you to interview:
lambert.homes/referral
No Lockbox video:
• No Lockbox! Beware!! ...
Preparing your house for sale:
• Get Your Home Ready To...
What not to say to a Contractor video:
• Never Say this to a Ge...
Interview Questions to ask a Listing agent (top 13 Questions):
lambert.homes/questions-to-ask
Video on interviewing a listing agent: • Interview Questions fo...
Interview Questions to ask a Buyer's Agent (Check List):
lambert.homes/buyer-agent-que...
Video on interviewing a Buyer's agent:
• Questions To Ask Your ...
Showing a property video:
• Tips for Showing a Pro...
Staging your home Checklist:
lambert.homes/staging-checklist
Avoid a Bad Home Inspection Checklist:
lambertgrouphomes.com/home-in...
Showing a property video:
• Tips for Showing a Pro...
💰 HOME VALUATION: hmbt.co/TaWy3g
If you are considering moving or selling your property in Orange County, don’t hesitate in reaching out to me.
For more information visit www.LambertGroupHomes.com or give me a call at [phone]
💁‍♀️ My name is Audra Lambert. I am a realtor in Orange County, California. I have over 20 years experience! I lived in this area most of my life. I love what I do and Love where I live! Please reach out to me with any of your questions.
🔍 WATCH NEXT:
What shows up in a home inspection report: • Fix these items to avo...
What not to fix when selling a home: • Selling a house? Don't...
Prepare your home for Sale: • Get Your Home Ready To...
This is not legal advice, nor can I give you legal advice Sorry! Everything here is for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing legal advice. You should contact your attorney to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem. Nothing here should be construed to form and attorney client relationship. Audra Lambert with the Lambert Group does not render or offer to render personalized investment advice, tax advice, or real estate investment advice. The information provided is for informational purposes only.
CONTACT INFO
Audra Lambert, Lambert Group Homes
📞 949.697.2232
💌 [e-mail]
🖥 www. LambertGroupHomes.com
👉🏾 DRE#01909872
👋 LET’S CONNECT
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🧡 Subscribe to my youtube channel: / @audralambert
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[@diana6842]

As I prepare my home to get it on the market - thoroughly decluttering and painting each room - I mumble to myself, "I hope the new owners appreciate getting all this effort I'm putting in to give them a spotless, freshly painted home because I'm starting to get bitter over this!" 😂 And personally, I'm starting to get a little ticked off with people asking, "Why is it taking so long??" Well, because I'm in my 60s and it looks like it will take me 6 months to get it ready - not 6 days! *Sorry, just venting 😂

[@poodledaddles1091]

I bought (2) 5 gallon pails of paint (on sale in December) in anticipation of putting it on the market in March. On the initial visit the realtor said “don’t paint”, b/c it would not be that much of a profit compared to the effort. I sold the new paint on marketplace ( I think I lost $3.00 lol), the house had a offer above asking price on the first day. I would say that updated paint might impress the inspector and that might get you more money. We took less money b/c the inspector knocked off 20k. We were still happy with the end result.

[@paulaskees8819]

I feel your pain. We started after Christmas. Room by room. Decluttering 44 years of stuff. Painting and cleaning is wearing us out. Hope to be on the market by mid-May.

[@dennyfie]

I have been getting my house ready and I'm 62 no help, it went active last Friday,I'm exhausted, my problem is this is a HOA And a active adult community, so most people want the perfect house with open floor plan mine is more of a bachelor pad or empty nester type. Not long ago this would of sold in 24 hours.Now it will take some time.

[@diana6842]

@@paulaskees8819 Sounds like we're in the same boat. I could have done this much easier in my 50s, but mid 60s is a whole other situation. I feel like I'm moving in slow motion getting this done. At least I'm still moving, though. Could be worse. Hope you meet your goal of mid May.

[@laurenadams6704]

I an in the same boat…. Everything I’m doing in & outside the house, no one better make an offhand comment! 😆

[@kaystinebrink1220]

Stress, stress and more stress. I've been getting ready to sell my home for 3 YEARS. We took all of Audra's suggestions and were able to sell our home in three days. Then the home inspector came and stayed 2 hours. He knows more about my home than I do. Stress is still there.

[@diana6842]

I'm thinking about getting a home inspection done before listing my house. I don't want to take the chance of major surprises and slow-downs during escrow.

[@DriveForShow]

@@diana6842This is the way to go.

[@teresalopez7081]

It’s about selling your house with a little less stress. They will appreciate the fact that they do not need to paint. 🎨

[@gracealba1006]

Thank you for sharing...I feel the same way Stress stress.and honestly...I Realy don't know how to start,

[@lyric8529]

It is definitely STRESSFUL

[@user-fe3jw5ti4n]

We are worn out. Now we are painting again. Audra thank you.

[@MickySMayer]

Audra, you information was so very helpful! I started packing, doing needed maintenance, fleshing inside and out. I got 6 offers today and landed on the offer that is $30,000. Decluttered, cleaned everything and my remodeling really made the difference. The now problem is finding my NEW home. Thank you for all the great, practical advice!!

[@AudraLambert]

You are so welcome. I am so happy for you. All that hard work paid off!! You'll find the right home...it always works out. You just made my day.

[@larryberry2436]

When we decided to put our last home on the market, I took all of my “junk” (tools, workshop items) to a mini warehouse. It took me 2-weeks, taking as much as my small hatchback would hold each day on my way to or from work. After the move, I moved my “junk” to our new home in reverse order at my leisure. Much less stress.

[@AudraLambert]

Great advice!! Thanks so much for sharing!!

[@saulez5403]

The biggest stress for me was “where to move”? “Will my life be better after the move”? “What if it gets worse?” I now realize because of this particular stress I have lived in the house I more or less hate for 20 years😮🤯 I should have started with finding a new house first! I was trying, but not hard enough. So when I would start selling but would get cold feet in the process and would not accept the offers!😅

[@florencehendrick4781]

The gig over here is that realtors are telling the older folks that they need to get rid of all the furniture and all the things that they can live without...put everything in storage or sell it....THAT SENDS A BIG SIGNAL TO BUYERS THAT YOU'RE DESPERATE AND MOTIVATED...this is so sad....I have a friend who was in tears and told me she's been eating off paper plates for months and sold off most of her furniture. I have another friend who told me the same thing except she went to a resale shop and bought a couple of cheap dishes and items that she needed....it's a nightmare for them.

[@teresalopez7081]

You can hand wash your dishes after you eat- getting paper plates was her choice.

[@AudraLambert]

Hi Flo..that sounds just awful!!

[@poodledaddles1091]

You are so relatable. You understand real estate AND people! We’re closing in a few days, we got an early offer above above listing price, however the inspection knocked it back by 20k, we accepted b/c it seemed reasonable to us. You are right moving and selling is not easy, we’ll be glad when it is over! Lol We are glad we did not do a FSBO, we made more money and much less hassle!

[@kathymartin2306]

I inherited a house. I was my cousin's caregiver and it has been a long 6 year journey. This house is nice, but I swear everything is breaking now. I'm done. I have my own house. Selling to a flipper. Had many offers, we have a great market here in Delaware.

[@teresalopez7081]

You don’t have to fix everything. That is a good choice and you reap the benefits from not being emotionally attached to it.

[@AudraLambert]

Thanks for sharing! Sounds like you made the right decision. Well done.

[@e-spy]

K, I have a realtor. We hit it off great at first. I explained my health limitations (significant). She told me to just pack and she would take care of the rest. Awesome! I was so elated and hopeful. She sent over a handyman, who got a few small things done but only showed 3 different times for an hour or two. Then crickets from him. I hired my own guy, and wow, did he get stuff done! It was spendy, but worth the piece of mind. Still nothing from the realtor after over a month. No additional help, either. Should I assume I have no realtor? I have signed nothing. The "season" here in Minnesota is almost over!

[@ClearThinking101]

Time + energy = real money, a commodity.

[@AudraLambert]

That's Clear Thinking:)

[@florencehendrick4781]

Soooooooooooo true Audra! However, I love a challenge, the part that I don't like is having to do it ALL by myself.....that's getting old..thank you for all the tips, and wisdom shared.

[@AudraLambert]

Yes, I know doing all the heavy lifting by yourself is a lot of work. My heart goes out to you.

[@florencehendrick4781]

No attachment here....I will be smiling all the way down the street......no tears here.

[@larryberry2436]

I feel the same way. I always see the sale of a home as a business transaction. I tell the agent that up-front, that I will not become emotional. Offers are either yes or no. My wife is not as cold, which is why she always turns it over to me. 7-moves in 38-years.

[@AudraLambert]

Good for you Flo. You've been through a lot.

[@redhatbear1135]

Zillow? I live in a very rural area and every month the electric company tells me that my usage is substantial higher than other similar properties within a mile! I think they say 3-5 house! I’m not sure there are that many houses, with electricity, around me much less similarly sized houses! Maybe 2 in the whole valley and one is partially commercial.

[@MrGus.1]

Great video. Yes! Tell your viewers the truth. Moving is a pain where the sun doesn't shine. But, Audra, also mention that other truth, that the fees charged by real estate professionals are outrageous. Do the math. The ever more common "million dollar house" ends up being $60,000, maybe more, out the window! The professionals do NOTHING worth that kind of money. A savvy seller and the internet can put all that money to much better use....and that's the truth.

[@AudraLambert]

I do like to keep it honest and truthful. There are some great agents out there who really do a great job and deserve every penny of their commission...unfortunately, there are many that do not. If you are thinking of selling, having a great agent by your side can make all the difference. However, a not so good realtor can potentially make the process overwhelming and even more stressful than it needs to be. Thanks for your comment.

[@greghernandez9772]

Audra you are seriously the best at what you do 🥰 love all your videos especially this one.. Greg 😊

[@redhatbear1135]

She has a video on realtor fees, it’s quite good.

[@Ellis1127]

Hi Audra, great tips and they work! 👏👏 Stress included! I retired as a firefighter in March and took 6 weeks to prep our single story ranch home in the 46514 area in northern Indiana. Our house went live April 19th and by noon on the 20th we had 4 offers to look over all over asking price. 3 conventional & 1 cash all As Is. Our house was almost empty as we already had a second home, but just enough items left as my wife is still working. We did use a lock box 🤔🤔 although I did have Blink cameras throughout the property. We ended up only showing for 12 hours once we accepted an offer. The photographer I thought did a great job staging with what we had, plus our yard was looking good with the spring bloom and warmer temps! Great show and thanks for the FREE advice. 👏👏👏👏

[@AudraLambert]

I am thrilled for you. Well done. So glad I was able to assist in some way. Congratulations!!

[@DriveForShow]

Grocery store is a good place to get boxes, as well. Guys at my market gave me lots of boxes.

[@AudraLambert]

Good tip. Costco is also a great place.

[@laurenadams6704]

Perfect timing. I’m just so done with getting house ready to put on market. Somedays I just want to say Eff it let me just sell to Cash for House investor

[@AudraLambert]

You got this! Its all going to pay off. Hang in there. You're almost there:)

[@lauriefuda]

I am so glad I found your videos and also some others. We are on the 5-10 year plan, but suddenly I feel the need to purge and it's working! We've been in this house for 25 years. Tons of stuff. Having wallpaper (YIKES!) removed in a few weeks from our unused dining room. I know we have time. With every little step, I feel better. Your support helps and I appreciate it. We're on the other side of the country in CT, so sadly can't use you to sell when we're ready.

[@AudraLambert]

HI Laurie, Thanks for your comment. You make a very good point. Starting early to prep your house for sale is very wise. It won't feel so overwhelming or stressed. Very smart to do this. I can't believe I am reaching CT. Thanks for watching...and have a great weekend.

[@mikefults3149]

Great advice for anyone that’s been on the fence about making the move. Thanks.

[@AudraLambert]

So glad you think so...thanks for the comment.

[@elisabethlafontaine8979]

Audra, I love your videos. I’ve got a great Realtor, she’s finding me a house to go to. I’m downsizing and going to a condo. I will get help with packing up and I’ll get a dumpster which I’d like to fill! You have help with my plan! Thank you!

[@yany871]

Love all your input and willingness to help us through this process.

[@AudraLambert]

Ahh...thanks so much for the comment. Means the world to me. I am grateful I am able to help so many of you. Brightens my day.

[@patrickm0007]

Always a great video. Thank you for all the info.

[@AudraLambert]

You bet! Happy to help!!

[@jimmyamico4713]

Outstanding video AUDRA I’m going to text you and try to get an appointment to talk with you❤

[@creativestrategyintersecti6268]

Great video, as usual.

[@lorraineophoff4984]

Great info,as always. Thank you!

[@Ed6013z10]

Love your videos, Thank you 🙏

[@gracealba1006]

Thank you Audrey, I appreciate it this wise advised.

[@AudraLambert]

You are so welcome! So happy to help!!

[@user-ls5rj2hp1z]

Thank you Audra. This information is much appreciated.

[@mthelouvre]

You do a Great Job!

[@marilynh5487]

Thanks

[@williamwatson7495]

Audra, Your vids have spot on content, plus you have amazing people skills. Thanks sooo much, I feel calmer already!

[@AudraLambert]

I'm so glad! Really appreciate your kind words...and glad you feel calmer!!

[@user-ms8du1ph1h]

Audra, your videos are absolutely outstanding. I live in South Florida & Ive never met a Realtor anything like you. (You'd be shocked at the.... sitiation here). Your ethics, caring, professionalism is showing me what a Realtor can be & WHAT TO EXPECT & REQUIRE from them. I will cont to soak up all the information in your videos I can. This is invaluable info, help. I feel so much less lost, & at peace, relaxed. You have compassion/caring for your clients. Lucky lucky people in California. Thank you sooo much for all the content you put out, for the grt( for so many reasons) Realtor you are, and especially for WHO YOU ARE AS A PERSON😇🙏🏼.It is immeasurable how many ppl you have helped & will help!!! Now I'm goona watch, "No Lockbox!"Toodles!

[@AudraLambert]

Wow...thank you so much!! You have no idea how much that means to me. Sometimes I feel like I am not making much progress...but your comment has changed that for me today. So glad I can help:). You'll love the lockbox video. Enjoy:)

[@DougCeleste]

Another GREAT video, Audra, packed with tons of VERY important information! Thanks for sharing! You are the BEST on KZbin for what you do! Yes, interviewing at least three realtors and pricing a home right (after looking at the local comps.) usually means a quick sale. My home here in New Mexico will be sold "As-Is" after I make some needed repairs and get a new roof since this home needs one asap. Too many people get greedy and overprice their homes and then they wonder why they are not selling. I have seen this too many times. My last home had two low-ball cash offers that I rejected and I accepted the best offer from buyers who were pre-approved. Close of escrow was so quick and easy. I hope for that again with this house. Thanks again for all you do for us! 😊

[@AudraLambert]

Hello again...thank you so much for the compliment. I am thrilled I could assist in some way. Glad everything worked out for you. Sometimes that pre-approved buyer is better than cash. Glad it was quick and easy. If you do sell your house now, I am positive it will go well. You do all the right "things." Thanks for sharing.

[@DougCeleste]

@@AudraLambert Thanks for your kind words, Audra! Much appreciated! I have learned a lot from my mistakes dealing in real estate ever since I was in my mid-20's back in the 1970's. Always room for improvement with me but with pros like you on KZbin, all I will say is that YOU ROCK by sharing your professional thoughts and sense of humor, too. 😊 I have a friend in Fullerton, CA. and I will tell her about YOU! My question is if you have any YT videos on "For Sale By Owner" homes? Too many people think that realtors are useless (like my neighbors down the street) and that selling a home is too easy and a realtor is not needed. Your words of wisdom on this issue would really be interesting to read. Thanks and take care! 😎

[@InfoSecGuardian]

I think the biggest anxieties are on the other side: 1) Where are you going? - Neighborhood (will you fit in) - Available businesses to suit your lifestyle - Doctors that match your needs - Accepting church - Is it going to be safe 2) Cash Flow once you've settled? - How will the cost of Insurance change (can you even get insurance)? - How will utility bills change (e.g., water rates, electricity rates, tier levels)? - Property Taxes, Mello-Roos, Special Assessments, HOA fees? 3) Do the reasons for moving outweigh the challenges of moving? Yes, logistics of the move and the costs of the move are important. But, long term, it's the anxieties I listed that are life impacting.

[@AudraLambert]

You make some very good points. The bottom line...moving is stressful both putting it on the market and finding the next location. That's why its good to take your time and do the research. You don't want to be rushed into anything. There is a lot to consider when selling and moving. It may not make sense for some to sell.

[@maryjanegibson7743]

Know your "why", but don't post it on your fridge --- where buyers will see it. By all means, write down your reasons why you are motivated to sell but put it where a buyer will never see it.

[@AudraLambert]

Laughing...You are right. I just meant post something on your refrigerator as motivation to get moving/packing/prepping for the putting the house on MLS. I definitely won't keep it up once the property was on the market. Maybe find another place:).

[@kimm5555]

Thank you I really needed this video today

[@AudraLambert]

Glad I could help! It a lot of work putting your house on the market. One day at a time. You go this:)

[@michaelmedina5825]

So much great advice!!!!

[@AudraLambert]

So glad you got some benefit out of my videos. Thanks for your support.

[@paulbjork2869]

No need to use Getty videos. Just listening is fine. Tis applies to most KZbinrs. We know what it looks like for someone to look stressed, open a wallet, etc.

[@cindycrewsbeach72]

We are getting our house ready for sale. Had to replace one full HVAC unit (12K), roofers are here today (4K), upstairs bath new countertops are going in this afternoon (2K), water heater last weekend (1K), and electrical system going in next week (4K). It’s A LOT! I’m exhausted and we haven’t even started on the inside work (painting, wallpaper removal, minor repairs and deep cleaning). Not to mention the power washing and landscaping (3K).Three other homes on our street went on the market, all for less money than I thought we could list for, so now I’m concerned we will not make enough money to buy the house we want. It’s so stressful. Especially since we borrowed money to do all this work. Wish me luck! I need it.

[@WarriorStrong7278]

Thank you, this is helpful.

[@AudraLambert]

Yah...so glad you got some value.

[@penelopejolly5434]

Audra, you and your videos are great! So glad KZbin put you in my feed, even though I'm selling in a completely different market. Obviously a couple of California-specific considerations don't apply, but your expectation management, organisation advice, process steps, preparation tips etc. are universal, en pointe and much appreciated.

[@GM-yn9nc]

Audra, great information. Your channel is extremely helpful and I appreciate your direction. Also, what kind of diet and exercise program do you recommend? I want to begin something new and I like what ever you're doing. You look amazing.

[@Ret17]

Great video(s)---thank you so much for sharing such helpful information. You do a great job!!

[@AudraLambert]

Ahhh...thanks!! Really appreciate your comment.

[@loiswilliams8001]

Good source of boxes is grocery store and pharmacy. Think how many pharmacies are in your area. Vials for meds come in nice square boxes. Most pharmacies will hold boxes for you if you pick up twice a week. I did cross country move and 90% of boxes were from pharmacies

[@kathylavalle]

I love your channel. Thank you for all of this wonderful advice ❤

[@AudraLambert]

You are so welcome! I am thrilled to help.

[@ladikmk]

If I lived in Orange County, CA, you'd be at the top of my realtor list Audra. My selling process is proving to be stressful because I'm not yet to the point of having my house listed, and it just seems like there is so much left to do. It doesn't help that I'm the one doing all the painting, decluttering, repairs, etc. Is there a light at the end of this tunnel? Great video - there's always some insightful nugget of info that helps me in this ongoing whirlwind called "selling my home." Thank you!

[@diana6842]

How much longer do you think it will take to finally get it on the market? I've been decluttering, repairing, and painting since mid January. I think a couple of more months and I'll be ready.

[@AudraLambert]

Good for you...you're almost there.

[@AudraLambert]

I know it seems never ending. You're going to get there at the right time that works for you. Have you contacted an agent yet. They may be able to assist. Some can be extremely helpful.

[@lornaescobar3828]

Thank you Audra for a great video

[@AudraLambert]

You are so welcome! So glad you got some value.

[@joanwyatt9945]

Love your videos! My biggest stress right now is having run out of money to finish our ADU. It’s 90% done and we will probably have to sell as is so not sure how they were going to get an appraisal. Question about the lockbox. How can realtor show the home if there is no key?

[@vinceordonez5878]

I’m in the process of selling right now. Your videos helped a lot. You are the best!!! - Vincie

[@AudraLambert]

Hello Vincie...best of luck to you. You'll do great. So glad I could help in some way.

[@vwdaisy970]

At what point do you take your home off the market and wait til a better time? My home has been listed for 90+ days and now going into summer I feel like I should pull it off and wait til next spring? Bad realtor advised to keep lowering the price 😢

[@denniskennedy6579]

Yiiu are an inspiration to us, old people. Not looking forward to selling or house with licensed boarding KENNEL. We know it's going to be a lot of work.

[@AudraLambert]

I hear ya...its not fun selling your house. However, the more prepared you are the better. When its all behind you, it feels great. Best of luck to you. I know you will do great!!

[@carollesleybates1843]

I love it that you said “the best time to sell is when you’re ready”. While spring/summer maybe the most active time in real estate there must always be people looking in all seasons. So I’ll stop panicking that I missed peak season. (I am in New Zealand) Thanks for your helpful advice.

[@AudraLambert]

You are so very welcome! New Zealand...wow. You'll do great!

[@Yajzoo44]

Hi Audra. When selling a home, how long should one wait to do a price reduction? For example, DOM since end of March. How it is determine of what price point should this reduction be?

[@comment5884]

🎖

[@AudraLambert]

Ahh...thanks

[@JodiHansen-yt8rc]

Hi Audra, your videos are very helpful, wish I had something like this before I sold my last house. I tried the link to get a referral for a realtor. Couldn't get it to work.

[@florencehendrick4781]

Good luck at the Open House, and you deserve 50 Million....

[@AudraLambert]

Hi Flo..I am at another open house right now. Good to hear from you. Always appreciate your comments and support. $50m...lol.

[@2023Red]

We plan to sell our home. The location is in a blue collar community with excellent employment. We put a new 30 year roof on it, the 2 stage Trane AC is three years old. And windows were replaced with thicker glass double insulation four years ago. We could but do not want to paint as it looks okay now. Same with kitchen etc. Everything works. In your opinion, would be throwing money away by doing more? Thanks

[@RABPWarrior]

Do you recommend a real estate attorney?

[@lizn9858]

Is it a bank loan appraisal that you recommend before listing?

[@_papad8434]

I was told that having the seller get an appraisal is a waste of money bc the banks/lenders of the buyers will do apprsisals, and they will basically set the value bc they won't give a loan to the buyer for more than what THEY (the bank) thinks it is worth.

[@leeannoneal4847]

I just took my home off the market after a little over a month on the market. I’ve sold 5 other houses and this was the worst. I knew it was going to be a lot of work but it was just too much at this point. My house is pretty much turnkey but had very few people interested even after a 25k price reduction.

[@poodledaddles1091]

Interesting

[@AudraLambert]

Sorry to hear that. In some areas, the market is not responding well to higher mortgage rates. Did your agent give you any feedback? I have had some homes that wouldn't sell even thought they were priced right and prepped well. I waited a month, put it back on the market and got multiple offers. Its weird how that works. Best of luck to you...sorry to hear the process hasn't been a good one.

[@florencehendrick4781]

In Ocala Palms Golf and Country Club 55 and older community in Florida,....many homes being sold under market value, and now the comps are distorted....I guess we lose...

[@AudraLambert]

The comps are the comps unfortunately. The buyers do look at that closely. Ugh.

[@deawallace3584]

what does it cost to get an appraisal?

[@deandambrosia1201]

Is it too much to ask for your realtor to be present when a buyer and their agent tour the house? I often hear the buyer asking questions or raising concerns that their agent can't answer. As a result, I've had to put up informational signs in my house to address their frequently asked questions. Or, if I am out of town, the buyer walks into a dark unstaged home.

[@janinebello5303]

Was i had you, I hate my realtor

[@kathrynp7595]

I have a question for you, I live in Carlsbad, CA with an upgraded ocean view home worth about 2.3 million. We live within walking distance to one of the highest rated schools in greater San Diego, close to a huge all inclusive park , and close to the freeway. Would you consider selling my home or is that too far for you to go? Not selling right now but in about 2 years, thx

[@smiles36njcp]

What if the appraisal is lower than you think? How do you know an appraiser is competent and takes everything in consideration? For example the upgrades i did are quality upgrades. Upgraded all interior doors to solid wood doors, composite materials rather than cheap vinyl, quality "new construction " windows as opposed to cheap vinyl replacement windows windows, etc.

[@AudraLambert]

Hello there, I get this question a lot. Just because you upgrade your house doesn't mean you are going to get all the money back once you sell it. Really depends on your area, strength or weakness in the housing market, and/or what inventory levels are. I have had a lot of my buyers upgrade their home extensively (15 years ago)...and the appraiser doesn't give them much value for their upgrades because the upgrades are outdated. This doesn't sound like your home, however. The appraiser should be able to give you their opinion of value...they should know the area well and understand if the market is appreciating or depreciating. I always give the appraiser a "Distinguishing Features" list on all my properties that get appraised. Here's the catch: If the appraisal is undervalued and you do list your home at that appraised value, the market will respond accordingly. I know its hard to do, but the market is the market. If the house is priced below market value, typically you will get multiple offers bringing it up to market value. Its also important to do your research on which appraiser you go with. Best of luck.

[@diana6842]

The appraisal is also a concern of mine - mainly because of the sq ft. When we bought this house, we paid cash (mil financed it for us) so we opted out of so many things. We were told this house had 2k sq ft and was even given the builder's floor plan that showed 2k sq ft. When we decided to get a mortgage and pay off mil, they came out for an appraisal and said we only had 1780 sq ft. I was shocked and angry! I told him that couldn't be. He said, "I'll remeasure" and came back with 1870 sq ft. I have no idea how many sq ft we actually have.

[@sherifboshra729]

If l have a buyer and not using a realtor who is writing the contract is the escrow company do that

[@paullugo4550]

We had planned to sell and move just prior to Covid. We started looking again 6 months ago, but decided to stay put because of interest rates. Being a veteran, currently at a 2.65% rate. Makes more sense to wait it out and get the house paid off in 3 more years and then revisit. Right?

[@AudraLambert]

Well, I am not going to lie..2.65% would keep me a home owner...not a seller. That is a great rate.

[@Ruby-if4jf]

Audre, how do I get an appraisal if I don't have a realtor?

[@jaccole]

Call a local real estate appraiser. Compare their estimated value to the online services (Zillow, Realtor, Redfin) to see if they are close. The appraiser will give you the comparable homes that they use for an appraisal and discuss with you how they reached the value of your home.

[@MaddieBr]

I'm hearing that buyers won't get insurance if the roof is over 20 years old. 22 years ago I had all the prior roofs removed, replaced sheathing, had 50year shingles installed. My roof doesn't leak and has years of life left. Will I have to pay for a new roof?

[@AudraLambert]

Every insurance company is different...and every area is different. I have heard out in Florida, that you can't get insurance unless your roof is on the newer side. I would call your insurance company and ask them. If you have insurance now, it shouldn't be a problem...but ask your insurance agent that question. They are a wealth of information.

[@MaddieBr]

I'm in CA, and getting my house ready. My realtor said it shouldn't be a problem, but some people are having to research dates of permits by previous owners to prove roof age

[@avaelizabeth4808]

its exhausting .It is a historical home . Myb hands are tied . I hav e no insurance. its in small one horse town where everyone knows everyone and are super weird and desperate . I just want to end it and get out , I trust no one there It has been a horrible experience. The house is empty . I am afraid to go inside it has centipedes. I need help sp bad . I do not know where to turn . It has made me physically ill.

[@AudraLambert]

That sounds just terrible. I'm sorry to hear you health is being impacted. Not sure how to help.

[@ericksonsails]

Can't a realtors market analysis be just as accurate as an appraisal?

[@AudraLambert]

Sure!! However, a buyer would rather listen to an appraiser's value than your realtors option of value. You don't have to get an appraisal, it just helps with negotiations.

[@bookswithatwist-vanvelzerp9262]

before I bought the home own painted all the rooms white - I HATE WHITE - and would have paid more for the nicely painted colored rooms LOL In face - once pealing back some baseboards - found I was painting the room nearly the same light blue it had been ! HA HA HA

[@AudraLambert]

Everyone has their style and preference. I am just recommending something neutral because it appeals to more people. I love that you love light blue. Pretty color.

[@bookswithatwist-vanvelzerp9262]

@@AudraLambert yes - I know I am not the norm ... :) but sometimes if there is interest - nice sage green living rooms can save the day ! LOL ha ha ha ha Seriously - I will selling my Father In Laws house soon - and yes -it will all be white or a light cream :)

[@peterdicapua3498]

Audra, why have you moved 11 times in 21 years?

[@NeoSoulCrew]

Moving to downsize is the most ridiculous reason to move.

[@BobbieJeanM]

Hmmmm, I’m guessing you’re in good health, physically fit, have lots of energy and mobility but mostly you’re younger than 71 and have money to pay upkeep on a house and property that’s bigger than you want or need. 😉👵🏻

[@poodledaddles1091]

I wonder why you think that is not a good reason?

[@diana6842]

I read an interesting take on this just the other day. They said the whole push for older people to downsize was actually started by realtors during a slump to stir up business. Convince old people they must downsize whether they want to or not, and real estate is booming again. I suppose convincing old people to downsize also helps their adult children because downsizing means getting rid of junk they don't want to deal with someday. We're in our 60s and are moving to be near family, but my husband has been harping on "we need to downsize" when we move. Our home now isn't large! What are supposed to downsize to - a closet? Yes, I want to get rid of all the clutter and unnecessary stuff in our home - I really like having less stuff, but that doesn't mean I'm ready to live in a tiny home!

[@waterydepths5584]

My 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 1500 sq foot home is perfect. On bedroom is the den/library/guest room, the other is my workout room with all my equipment. I have no storage unit...do a continuous declutter process. I could never go smaller. Happy right I'm at. Aging in place.

[@AudraLambert]

A lot of people sell their homes, take the equity and purchase something all cash. Doesn't sound ridiculous to me.

[@dennyfie]

getting the house was ready was a piece of cake.dealing with the underhanded agents is a major turn off. I had a great clean closing no repairs quick closing cash but egos got in the way and here i sit, they're working for themselves not the buyer or seller.totally useless industry. I could of sold this house 3 times cash.but no.i hot screwed by you clowns. No respect for you people.