Selling Your Home?

Selling your home is all about knowing the local housing market. Pricing your home correctly is crucial to maximizing the highest selling price possible. As an area expert, I can help determine what direction the market is trending, so you can make the right choices when it comes to selling your home to get the highest price possible!

As a licensed Realtor for 40 years, I have experience and knowledge that not many other real estate agents have. Ask me how I am your choice when it comes to selling your home.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's) for Sellers:

What are the costs of selling a property in Delaware?

Closing Costs: Sellers in Delaware pay closing costs, including State/County transfer tax, real estate agent commission(s), Repairs or concessions requested by the buyer after inspections.
What is the Delaware real estate transfer tax? Who pays for it?: Delaware has a real estate transfer tax of 4% of the sales price, typically split evenly between the buyer and seller (2% each) unless otherwise negotiated. However, these terms can vary based on the purchase agreement.
Lawyer fees: Sellers do not have to hire an attorney in Delaware. The buyer is required to hire an attorney. However, the closing disclosure will have all the detailed figures including pro-ration of utility, tax and other invoices, wire transfer, mailing, recording fees that may apply.
Real estate agent commission: Sellers are responsible for paying the listing agent. Agreements of sale typically ask the buyer's agent commission be paid from the proceeds of the sale.

What Forms are required or may be utilized in the sale of a property in Delaware?

Consumer Information Statement: This form must be given to sellers and buyers by the real estate agent.
Listing agreement contract: This is the contract between the owner(s) and the listing brokerage.
Seller's Disclosure Form: Seller's MUST fill out a Seller's Disclosure Form. This form details the property’s condition and any known defects. Being upfront helps avoid legal issues later.
Lead Based Paint addendum:
Radon addendum:
DUCIOA addendum:
Net proceeds form: This form is designed to show the estimated net proceeds based on an estimated sale price minus expenses (mortgage and lien payoffs, closing costs, etc).
Utility/HOA information form: This form is designed to have all necessary name and contact information for utility companies, home owner/condo associations to make the transition to a new owner easier.

What if the property has a septic system?

Delaware septic inspection laws requires that septic systems are inspected by a certified professional before a home is sold (or within the 3 year prior to the sale). The inspection evaluates the condition of the septic system and the surrounding soil. The inspection must be performed by a Class H Septic Inspector certified by the DNREC or A certified service provider, such as a Class E System Contractor or a homeowner with DNREC certification.

Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) website for septic systems: DNREC Septic Systems

How do I determine the right asking price for my home?

Pricing your home correctly is crucial. I will provide a comparative market analysis (CMA) to evaluate your home’s value based on similar properties that have recently sold in your area. We’ll also consider factors like your home’s condition, upgrades, and the current market trends in Delaware.

How long does it typically take to sell a home in Delaware?

The timeline varies depending on market conditions, pricing, and location. In a seller’s market, homes often sell within weeks or even days. On average, homes in Delaware sell within 30-60 days, but this can fluctuate. This information will be part of my market analysis.

How should I prepare my home for sale?

Start by de-cluttering, deep cleaning, and addressing minor repairs. Consider staging your home to showcase its best features (You do not need to stage every room). First impressions matter, so enhancing curb appeal with landscaping or fresh paint can also make a big difference.

Should I make improvements or sell as-is?

This depends on your goals and budget. If your home needs only minor updates, these can yield a higher sale price. However, if major renovations are needed, selling as-is might save time and upfront costs. I can guide you on which improvements (if any) provide the best return on investment.

How are showings handled?

We can schedule showings at times convenient for you, and I will coordinate with buyers and their agents. For safety and convenience, most showings are done by appointment, and you’ll receive advance notice.

Do I need a real estate agent, or can I sell my home myself?

While selling on your own (FSBO) is an option, working with an experienced Realtor® can save you time, help you navigate negotiations, and often result in a higher sale price. Realtors® also handle the marketing, paperwork, and legalities involved in the transaction.

What happens if a buyer requests repairs after the inspection?

After the buyer’s inspection, you may receive a repair request. You can choose to:

Make the repairs.
Offer a credit toward the buyer’s closing costs.
Decline the request (though this could risk the sale).
We’ll discuss the best approach based on your situation.

Do I need to be present at closing?

No, you don’t need to attend closing in person. In Delaware, the settlement agent or attorney can coordinate the process. If you prefer, you can sign documents in advance or possibly use a remote closing option.

Things to Think About When Selling Your Home

Accurate pricing is key to get as many people as possible to tour and make offers on your home, especially when you first list your home. There’s a current pool of buyers waiting for new listings to hit the market, which is why accurate pricing and staging your home properly is crucial.

Once we’ve determined the price, I can give you advice about the little things that you can do to stage your home to get you the highest possible price! You’d be surprised by the simple measures you can take to dress up your home to attract more qualified buyers.

I have a marketing plan that is designed to get maximum exposure to the buyers that are currently looking, and all agents that have buyers. Through pricing, staging, agent accessibility, and visibility, both on and offline, I can successfully sell your home to help you achieve your goals.

Curious about what’s happening in your neighborhood?

You can create a custom market report to see what’s active, under contract, and sold in your neighborhood!

Considering selling or refinancing your home? Get an INSTANT property valuation now!