If you read my blog and read last month’s post, I mentioned that insurance challenges are a hot topic and they appear to remain challenging for the foreseeable future. In a nutshell, some insurance companies have stopped issuing new policies in the state of California and some companies are now not issuing new policies in high-fire zones as well as if there is knob-and-tube wiring, galvanized steel pipes, and/or a few other older systems. So what does that mean for the sellers? If your property has some of these components a buyer may have a very tough time getting insurance, and if they are able to obtain a policy it could be quite expensive. This means that some potential buyers who love your home may not be able to purchase it due to insurability, which could result in fewer offers and a lower sales price. So as a seller, it is important to identify some of these issues upfront and see what can be done to correct things before they become an issue. This may mean focusing some of the pre-marketing preparations on property systems to ensure insurability and focusing less on cosmetics. While we know a buyer has to be attracted to your property to come and take a look, we also need to ensure that a buyer can actually purchase your property. Now more than ever, expert insight and planning is needed to help you achieve your goals. This is a hot topic and I am staying informed and Red Oak is creating some systems to help!
Last night I was reflecting on some of the homes I have sold over the years: A Queen Anne Victorian that once had a printing business downstairs so there were beautiful vintage double doors installed to accommodate the large printing press. A cool mid-century home that once was a marijuana grow house with an amazing water irrigation system and incredibly amended soil, (fun tidbit: the pest inspector said he found a pound of weed in the crawlspace!). A majestic John Hudson Thomas craftsman home with the most spectacular dining room featuring handsome floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a Norfolk Pine tree. So many uniquely individual properties that were enhanced by the owners to fit their personality and aesthetics. With the diversity also comes a myriad of property conditions, style preferences, and layouts, making home values anything but cookie cutter. When working with sellers it is my mission to enhance, highlight, and bring heart and creativity to each property so that a potential buyer will feel like they are purchasing something exceptional and one-of-a-kind. While the buyers will ultimately set the selling price, a great listing agent will use their experience on what today's buyers are looking for, stay on top of potential complexities and pitfalls, and make your home its most irresistible self so you can obtain the highest possible price. As my reflection ended, I was overwhelmed with gratitude that I earned your trust and that you have given me the task of showcasing your property and positioning it in its best light.
As the deciduous tree leaves are flaunting their beauty by turning yellow, orange and red before dropping for the winter, let's embrace this next season and give thanks for all of our blessings. Thank you for your friendship, support, and calling on me for all of your housing goals.
Happy Thanksgiving,
