When buying or selling real estate in Canon City, Co or really anywhere for that matter, a little preparation can go a long way.

In this piece we discuss hacks for both buyers and sellers. Tips and tricks that help prepare a person to capture the greatest benefits as they navigate the real estate realm.

This advice is presented by Kurt Zerby, who has 42 years of experience in Canon City, Co real estate and was the #1 Agent in 2021. He’s put together this list in the hopes you find value and ultimately find a higher level of success in your real estate endeavors.

Without further ado, let’s jump in!

1.) Hire the best

When considering something of this magnitude (buying or selling real estate), having a pro in your corner will most certainly prove to be wise. Whether your agent, mortgage broker or other, having the “A-team” on your team will help you avoid common mistakes and take advantage of the most current information effecting the market.

2.) Interview more than 1

Buying or selling real estate requires a good handful of steps. Finding an agent that you can get along with, will be helpful during the many interactions you’ll share and will likely lead to better communication and an overall better experience.

3.) Make sure your home ends up on the MLS (multiple listing service)

Making sure your home ends up on the MLS, will ensure a high level of exposure. The MLS is an invaluable tool that will place your listing in front of agents and buyers virtually everywhere. Working with an agent who can get your home on the Multiple Listing Service, just might be the exact thing needed to attract the right buyer and experience a successful sale.

4.) Know the first offers you get are typically the best

In today’s real estate climate, buyers are anxiously awaiting new listings that meet their desired criteria and when they show up, things tend to move quick. If for whatever reason there are delays, buyers will move onto newer listings and perhaps opportunities are lost for sellers. Giving that initial batch of interest adequate attention to not only prove wise but yield the most beneficial result.

5.) Put a shine on your home

When marketing your home, it’s critical it’s looking it’s best and is as attractive as possible to potential buyers. How well your home looks is an indication of how well a home has been taken care of. A clean and presentable space allows a buyer to more easily see themselves enjoying your home and living their life in it.

6.) Don’t over buy – Stay within your budget

The only thing that can take away from living in an amazing space is the inability to do it without stress because your financially stretched. How much you qualify for and the amount you should spend to have the best quality of life, are often times different numbers. We recommend giving yourself some breathing room. This will give you a bit of a buffer to upgrade the home, prepare for the unexpected or at least not have to stress over making your payments.

7.) Get pre-approved

Connecting with a Mortgage broker and knowing not only what you can afford but that a bank will extend the credit to you to make the purchase, will certainly serve you on your real estate journey. Sellers will appreciate your preparation and if you find the right property, you’ll be able to secure it quickly without unnecessary delays.

8.) Get an inspection

Having an expert take a very close look at your structure and it’s systems will help you not only better understand what you’re buying but will also allow you to properly prepare for future maintenance and understand how to operate your new systems. Having a professional, complete this process gives banks and warranty companies information that they can use to offer additional products as well, that can further protect your investment.

9.) Be quick to the draw

Things seem to be moving faster than ever and being nimble and quick to the draw will most certainly help you to finalize a deal. Speed wins in a market like this so getting pre-approved and properly prepared allows you to move fast and offer a headache free experience that sellers will most certainly appreciate.

10.) Submit a Love Letter

If you want to go the extra mile, a letter telling the selling team why you want the home can benefit your cause. Letting them know why you love it and are excited to live there, can help a seller chose the best fit to buy their home. It adds a layer of personality that in a market moving as fast as this one is often lost.

We hope the above tips will help you prepare for and ultimately experience a successful real estate experience. A little heavy lifting in the beginning can save a persons tons of time and countless headaches along the way.

For additional questions, or to learn more about services at Kurt Zerby Real Estate, we welcome your contact anytime.