A Summary

§       Housing in the area is very expensive.

§       Inventory shortage is the norm, which results in competition for existing listing.

§       Houses sell very fast (usually 7 - 10 days after listing).

§       Sellers frequently ask for (and get):

o      offers above asking price

o      no contingencies

o      as is

o      very short escrows

o       

§       To help you to take the giant steps necessary to do this, most sellers will:

o      wait for offers until after the Realtor tour and at least one weekend of open houses

o      set a specific time and date for hearing offers

o      provide a package to interested buyers with all disclosures as well as pest inspection, and property inspection reports.

o       

§       To be ready to make a decision quickly and complete the necessary paperwork for an acceptable offer, buyers should:

o      get preapproved by a reputable and recognized lender prior to searching seriously for a house;

o      read ahead the purchase contract and basic disclosures and discuss any issues that need clarification with their Realtor well ahead of time;

o      work with a reputable, competent, and successful agent. In competing offer situations, if all other factors are equal, the seller's agent will often suggest to the seller that they should go with the best agent.