Seller’s Remorse? Top Regrets of Home Sellers and How to Prevent Them

Let’s face it—between repairs, closing costs and commissions, the costs associated with selling your house can add up fast. Case in point: homeowners reported spending $54,616 when selling their homes, according to a recent survey from Clever Real Estate—an amount that was surprising to 42%.  Despite the costs, the majority (64%) made a profit on the sale of their home, with the median profit totaling $100,000. [Option to add personalized insights from the field here. Example: Over the past six months, the sellers I’ve worked with have made profits between $X and $X.] With the right strategy, you can maximize your profits and minimize regrets. In fact, the study also showed that sellers who worked with a real estate agent walked away with an average of $34,000 more than those who went it alone. That’s a pretty compelling argument for having a pro in your corner!  Rather than just taking my word for it, let’s dive into: The costs associated with selling a home Regrets home sellers reported  How you can avoid common mistakes The Cost of Selling a Home Selling a home at the highest possible price involves various costs. Here’s what survey respondents said they paid for, on average: Listing agent commission: $11,136 Buyer's agent commission: $10,467 Repairs: $10,000 Closing costs: $8,000 Concessions: $7,200 Moving expenses: $3,250 Marketing: $2,300 Staging: $2,263 Keep in mind that every transaction is different—some of these costs are negotiable (like agent commissions), some may not be needed for every property, and some could be lower or higher based on the condition of the home or what’s happening in the local market.  Common Regrets of Home Sellers Regret was a common sentiment among home sellers who participated in the survey, with 89% expressing some sort of regret post-sale, including 92% of those who sold without an agent.  The most common regrets about the home selling process included: Selling too quickly (30%) They miss their old home (29%) Not selling for enough money (28%) Not making enough pre-listing repairs (26%) Making too many concessions (26%) Failing to stage the home (25%) Now, let’s get into something I’m really passionate about—the regrets home sellers had about their agent. Half of those surveyed say their agent “failed them” in some way. This is why who you work with matters so much.  Here’s what respondents had to say about their agent: Agent's advice let them down (57%) Agent made mistakes with their listing (53%) Agent didn't communicate enough (50%) So, with all these regrets floating around, how can you make sure these things don’t happen to you?  How to Maximize Your Home Sale Making the most of your home sale starts with working with the right real estate agent (remember, agents help homeowners get an additional $34,000 for their home sales). I always encourage sellers to interview at least two agents, because when it comes to selling your biggest asset, having the right professional by your side is critical. That’s why I also recommend home buyers meet with more than one mortgage lender. When interviewing agents, look for the following: Find a Professional: Look for an agent with deep knowledge about the local market, strong negotiation skills and a solid marketing plan. Check References and Reviews: Ask for references and read online reviews to ensure the agent has a history of satisfied clients. Discuss Your Goals and Expectations: Make sure your agent understands your goals and priorities for the sale. In addition, be sure to ask about their communication plan. Evaluate Their Marketing Plan: A good agent will have a comprehensive marketing strategy to attract potential buyers, including online listings, social media promotion, and professional photography. Understand Commission Structure: Discuss the commission upfront to avoid any surprises later. Once you find a real estate agent you are confident with, work with them to learn what type of repairs or staging will make a difference. They will be able to walk you through the process and provide guidance on what matters most to buyers.  The Bottom Line Selling your home comes with a series of big decisions. A real estate agent is your partner in the process, and their expertise can mean the difference between tens of thousands of dollars in your pocket.  For a free consultation or discovery call to chat about your goals, connect with me here.

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Discover What $500k Can Get You in Montgomery, Alabama

Discover What $500k Can Get You in Montgomery, Alabama Are you curious about what $500,000 can buy you in Montgomery, Alabama? Join me, Britt Dowling, as we explore three beautiful homes in three distinct neighborhoods: Melrose, Breckenridge, and Sturbridge. Whether you're considering a move to Montgomery or just want to see the local real estate offerings, this tour will give you a great idea of what you can expect. Home 1: Melrose Neighborhood Our first stop is the Melrose neighborhood, where we find a stunning home listed at $519,000. This property features five bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a half bath, spread over approximately 3,300 square feet. Melrose is a newer community with homes still under construction, offering a modern and fresh environment. Although there are no community amenities like a pool or clubhouse, the lower HOA fees and proximity to shopping centers such as Publix, Walmart, Target, and Costco make it a highly desirable location. Home 2: Breckenridge Neighborhood Next, we visit Breckenridge, where a beautiful house is listed at $525,000. This home offers five bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a half bath, with a spacious 3,800 square feet of living space. One of the highlights of this property is its location; it’s right across the street from the clubhouse and pool. Imagine the convenience of having these amenities just steps away from your front door. Additionally, the wooded lot next to the house ensures privacy and a serene atmosphere. Home 3: Sturbridge Neighborhood Our final stop is Sturbridge, featuring a home listed at $549,000. This property includes four bedrooms and three bathrooms within 2,700 square feet. Sturbridge is a unique neighborhood with a mix of new construction and homes dating back to the 1980s. It offers an array of amenities, including a clubhouse, fitness facility, and pool, making it an excellent choice for families looking for both convenience and community. Why Choose Montgomery, Alabama? Montgomery is a vibrant city with a rich history and a strong sense of community. It offers a variety of neighborhoods, each with its own unique charm and amenities. Whether you prefer newer developments or established communities, Montgomery has something for everyone. Plus, the cost of living is relatively low compared to other parts of the country, making it an attractive destination for homebuyers. Work With Me If you're considering making a move to Montgomery, I'd love to be your real estate resource of choice. My name is Britt Dowling, and I am dedicated to helping you find the perfect home. Feel free to contact me via call, text, or email, and let's find your dream home together!

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Montgomery Alabama: The New Silicon Valley?

Montgomery and Silicon Valley: A Comparative Overview Montgomery, Alabama, has traditionally been known for its pivotal role in American history, particularly in the civil rights movement. However, recent developments have positioned it as a potential powerhouse in the technology sector. Like Silicon Valley, Montgomery is fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, but with its unique Southern charm and cost-effective living standards. Meta’s New Data Center: A Game Changer for Montgomery One of the most significant recent developments is Meta's announcement to build a new data center in Montgomery. This investment is not only a testament to the city's growing appeal as a tech hub but also a catalyst for further technological growth and job creation. The data center is expected to enhance local infrastructure, provide numerous high-tech jobs, and attract other tech companies to the region. Technological Growth and Economic Impact in Montgomery In the past decade, Montgomery has seen a surge in tech startups and tech education initiatives. The city’s strategic plan focuses on creating a favorable environment for tech companies, with incentives such as tax breaks and resources for startups. This has not only boosted the local economy but also transformed the job landscape, making Montgomery an attractive destination for tech professionals. Educational Foundations: Building the Next Generation of Tech Giants Montgomery's educational institutions have aligned with this vision by emphasizing STEM education. Schools and universities in the area are collaborating with tech companies to provide students with the skills needed for the future. These educational programs are essential for sustaining growth and innovation within the city. The Role of Government and Private Sector Investments Both the local government and private investors are crucial to Montgomery's tech rise. The government’s support in enhancing infrastructure and connectivity has made the city more accessible and business-friendly. Simultaneously, venture capitalists and tech giants are investing in Montgomery, betting on its potential to yield high returns. Meta’s new data center exemplifies such significant investments, signaling confidence in Montgomery’s tech future. Community and Culture: The Heart of Montgomery's Tech Scene Unlike Silicon Valley, which is often critiqued for its cutthroat competitiveness, Montgomery is cultivating a community-centric tech culture. Here, collaboration and mutual support define the entrepreneurial spirit, making it a uniquely hospitable environment for startups. Comparing Business Costs: Montgomery vs. Silicon Valley One of the most compelling reasons for tech companies to consider Montgomery over Silicon Valley is the significantly lower cost of doing business. From real estate to living expenses, Montgomery offers a more affordable alternative, which is particularly appealing to new startups. The presence of Meta's data center further enhances the city's infrastructure, making it even more attractive to businesses. Success Stories from Montgomery's Tech Scene Several success stories have already emerged from Montgomery’s tech scene, inspiring more entrepreneurs to consider this city as their base. These stories not only highlight the city's potential but also its capability to support high-growth companies. Challenges and Opportunities While Montgomery is on an upward trajectory, it faces challenges such as attracting a larger workforce and competing with more established tech hubs. However, these challenges also present opportunities for growth and improvement. Meta’s data center is a significant step towards addressing these challenges by attracting talent and investment. Future Outlook: Will Montgomery Rise to the Challenge? The future looks promising for Montgomery as it continues to build on its strengths and learn from the hurdles along the way. Whether or not it will truly become the "new Silicon Valley" remains to be seen, but its potential is undeniable. Montgomery Alabama: A Model for Other Emerging Tech Cities Montgomery’s approach provides a blueprint for other cities aiming to cultivate a tech ecosystem. It shows that with the right mix of government support, education, and community involvement, any city can aspire to be the next tech hub. Conclusion: The Rise of a New Tech Hub Montgomery, Alabama, is making significant strides towards becoming a key player in the technology sector. With its supportive community, strategic investments, and a focus on education, Montgomery is not just following in the footsteps of Silicon Valley—it's paving its own path. The addition of Meta’s data center is a landmark achievement that solidifies Montgomery's place on the tech map.

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