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House Keys

House Keys

著者： Birdman Media™
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 HOUSE KEYS is your go-to podcast for unlocking the world of real estate with clarity and confidence. Hosted by Rob “Birdman” Hephner and featuring trusted real estate expert Stephanie Crain of Mountain Retreat Realty Experts, this series breaks down the complex terms, processes, and decisions involved in buying and selling homes. With over 20 years of industry experience and a reputation for unmatched integrity, Stephanie brings practical insights, real-world examples, and straight-talk explanations that empower listeners at every stage of the real estate journey. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a seasoned investor, or preparing to sell your home, HOUSE KEYS gives you the tools to navigate the market with ease and assurance.2025
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  • For Sale by Owner - What you need to know.

    For Sale by Owner - What you need to know.
    2025/09/17
    Stephanie talks to Birdman about For Sale By Owner or FSBO When you sell your home For Sale By Owner (FSBO), you’re taking on the responsibilities that a real estate agent would normally handle. It can save you the listing commission, but it requires careful planning, knowledge of legal steps, and extra work on your part. Here’s what you need to know: ⸻ 1. Pricing Your Home Correctly • Research recent comparable sales in your neighborhood. • Consider getting a professional appraisal to set a fair asking price. • Overpricing can scare off buyers, while underpricing can leave money on the table. ⸻ 2. Preparing the Home • Clean, declutter, and stage the property to appeal to buyers. • Take high-quality photos (and possibly a video tour). • Make minor repairs or updates that boost curb appeal. ⸻ 3. Marketing the Property • Create an online listing on major sites (Zillow, Realtor.com, FSBO platforms). • Use yard signs, flyers, and social media to spread the word. • Consider professional photography and a well-written description to stand out. ⸻ 4. Handling Showings • Be ready to schedule and host open houses or private showings. • Keep the home clean and welcoming at all times. • Be prepared to answer buyers’ questions directly. ⸻ 5. Negotiating Offers • Buyers may expect a discount since you’re not paying a commission. • Review all offers carefully; price isn’t the only factor—financing type, contingencies, and timelines matter. • You may want a real estate attorney to help review terms. ⸻ 6. Legal and Paperwork Requirements • Disclosures: You are legally required to disclose known defects or issues with the property. • Purchase contract: You’ll need a legally binding contract; many FSBO sellers use state-approved templates or hire an attorney. • Escrow/title company: They handle earnest money deposits, title search, and closing documents. ⸻ 7. Closing the Sale • The buyer’s lender will order an appraisal (if financing). • You’ll need to coordinate with inspectors, appraisers, and the title/escrow office. • At closing, you’ll sign the deed transfer, settle final costs, and hand over the keys. ⸻ 8. Pros and Cons Pros: • Save on agent commissions. • You stay in full control of the process. Cons: • Requires time, effort, and negotiation skills. • Limited exposure compared to listings in the Multiple Listing Service (MLS). • Risk of mistakes with contracts, disclosures, or legal compliance.

    House Keys is brought to you by

    Mountain Retreat Realty Experts

    https://mtnretreatrealty.com

    House Keys is produced by Birdman Media™

    This Episode is additionally supported by the support of the following sponsors

    Buffalo Bills Tavern and Museum / Buffalo Nickel Brewery and Grill
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    3 分
  • What is Earnest Money?

    What is Earnest Money?
    2025/09/11

    💵 What is Earnest Money?

    Earnest money (sometimes called a good faith deposit) is the money a buyer puts down when making an offer on a home to show the seller they’re serious about purchasing.

    It’s like a security deposit for your offer — proving you’re committed while the sale process moves forward.

    📊 Typical Amount

    • Usually 1%–3% of the purchase price (but can be higher in competitive markets).

    • Example: On a $300,000 home, earnest money might be $3,000–$9,000.

    🏦 Where Does the Money Go?

    • It’s not paid directly to the seller upfront.

    • It’s held in an escrow account (by a title company, escrow company, or broker).

    • At closing, the earnest money is applied toward your down payment or closing costs.

    ⚖️ What Happens to It?

    • If the deal closes → It goes toward the buyer’s purchase costs.

    • If the buyer backs out for a valid reason (like issues found during inspections, financing falls through, or appraisal problems under contract terms) → The money is usually refunded.

    • If the buyer backs out without a valid reason (outside the contract protections) → The seller may keep the earnest money as compensation for taking the home off the market.

    🔑 Why It Matters

    • Shows the seller you’re committed.

    • Strengthens your offer in competitive markets.

    • Protects the seller from wasted time if a buyer walks away without cause.

    👉 In short: Earnest money = the buyer’s “good faith” deposit that says, “I’m serious about this purchase,” and it eventually gets credited back to the buyer if the sale goes through.

    House Keys is brought to you by

    Mountain Retreat Realty Experts

    https://mtnretreatrealty.com

    House Keys is produced by Birdman Media™

    This Episode is additionally supported by the support of the following sponsors

    Buffalo Bills Tavern and Museum / Buffalo Nickel Brewery and Grill
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    2 分
  • What is Due Diligence?

    What is Due Diligence?
    2025/09/09

    🏡 What is Due Diligence?

    In real estate, due diligence is the period of time after your offer is accepted (but before closing) where you, the buyer, have the chance to fully investigate the property and make sure it’s the right fit.

    Think of it as a “check everything before you’re locked in” window.

    🔎 What Happens During Due Diligence?

    During this period, buyers typically:

    • Home Inspection: Hire a licensed inspector to check the property’s condition (roof, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, etc.).

    • Appraisal: Lender requires a professional estimate of the home’s value to ensure it matches the purchase price.

    • Title Search: Verify that the seller has clear ownership, and there are no liens or disputes.

    • Review HOA Rules: If the home is in an HOA, check fees, rules, and restrictions.

    • Insurance Check: Get quotes for homeowners insurance and check risks (flood zones, wildfire zones, etc.).

    • Neighborhood/Local Research: Schools, commute, traffic, noise, crime, future development.

    💵 Due Diligence Fees & Earnest Money

    • In some states (like North Carolina), buyers pay a due diligence fee to the seller — essentially “paying for the time” the home is off the market while they investigate.

    • More commonly, buyers put down earnest money (good faith deposit), which shows they’re serious. If you cancel for valid reasons found in due diligence, you may get it back.

    ⏳ Why It Matters

    • Protects the buyer from surprises (hidden repairs, title problems, etc.).

    • Gives an exit option — if something major comes up, you can often renegotiate or walk away.

    • Ensures informed decisions before committing to a major financial investment.

    👉 In short: Due diligence = your “safety net” time to make sure the home is sound, the title is clear, and the deal truly makes sense before you close.

    House Keys is brought to you by

    Mountain Retreat Realty Experts

    https://mtnretreatrealty.com

    House Keys is produced by Birdman Media™

    This Episode is additionally supported by the support of the following sponsors

    Buffalo Bills Tavern and Museum / Buffalo Nickel Brewery and Grill
    続きを読む 一部表示
    2 分
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