Have a Contract? It’s Still not Time for the Bubbly!

Getting a house under contract can sometimes be challenging enough. However, it’s still not time to break out the champagne once it happens. According to a survey by the Nat’l Assoc. of Realtors, about 14% of pending sales don’t close and another 20% are delayed but eventually close. Most of the issues can be attributed to financing or home inspections.

So what can you do? Be mentally prepared that there most likely will be hurdles to overcome and the closing date may not be concrete. Have a home inspection prior to putting your house on the market and make needed repairs so you can avoid post-contract negotiations or worse, giving the buyers reason to walk from the contract. Be aware that tighter lending regulations can slow the process - anything from the house not appraising to last minute negotiations that create a 3-day delay due to new lending rules. It’s a complex process and that’s why you need a knowledgeable Realtor to help navigate your way to a successful closing. Give me a call and put my 15 years of experience to work for you. 603-526-4116

Donna Forest, ABR