Should You Wait to Make an Offer in Indianapolis?

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We have a few questions to answer today, all relating back to managing multiple offer situations from a buyer’s standpoint.

Should you wait for other offers before making one? We advise against this, because you should submit your offer as soon as possible. Our marketplace is competitive due to low inventory. It’s easy for a home to sell quickly, even in under 24 hours. You should dodge multiple offer situations whenever you can. It can drive up the price quickly.

Additionally, ask for a limited time frame of acceptance. Ask your agent for a recommendation of an appropriate time frame. This urges the seller to accept or decline your offer in a specific amount of time.

If there’s already an offer, should I still make one? If you like the house enough, submit an offer. However, you need to use two strategies. First, write off highest and best number. If this offer is then rejected, you’ll already know you put your best foot forward already. Second, get pre-approved ahead of time. This shows the seller you’ve consulted a lender to make this major financial decision.

How can my offer stand out? Avoid contingencies at all costs. For instance, if you’re dedicated to a property, you might want to pick up some fees as the buyer. You can protect yourself while reducing contingencies for the seller.

As always, if you’re thinking about buying or selling a home in the surrounding Indianapolis area, reach out by phone or email. We’d be happy to answer any questions you might have and possibly turn one into a future video! Talk to you soon.

Is It Better to Buy Than Rent in Indianapolis?

Selling in the Indianapolis area? Get a free home value report  Purchasing in the Indianapolis area? Click here for full MLS access

Oftentimes, first-time home buyers and current rental tenants ask us whether they should consider buying or renting. There are a few reasons why buying is better than renting, especially in the surrounding Indianapolis region.

• Pride of homeownership: It’s the American dream and what everyone strives for. If you get approved for a loan, now is the best time to make the transition.
• Mortgage interest deductions: You can take your mortgage interest and deduct that from your taxes. If you’re renting, you’ll only receive the standard $1,500 deduction.

• Your credit score: Everybody knows how important credit scores are! It helps you buy anything you want. Owning a home and paying your mortgage on time can increase your credit score.
• Rising rents: The country faces increasing monthly rent payments everywhere. Instead of paying rent, you can be investing in your own property.

If you’re thinking about buying in the local marketplace, give us a call or send us an email! We’d be happy to work with you and answer any real estate questions you might have.

How Do I Prepare My Indianapolis Home to Sell This Spring?

Selling in the Indianapolis area? Get a free home value report  Purchasing in the Indianapolis area? Click here for full MLS access

Today we’re coming at you with three simple tips to prepare your home for sale in this selling market. We want you to be ready should you decide to sell your home. Here are our three steps:

1. Declutter your home

The last impression you want to give to buyers is that you’re a hoarder. Start decluttering every nook and cranny of your home, including your closets, garage, and pantry. Everything needs to look as neat and clean as possible.

2. Think about your curb appeal

When people first drive up to your home, what impression do they get? If you have fresh mulch, new plants, and a tidy yard, buyers will be more drawn to your home.

3. Fix broken things

The first thing a buyer is going to do after their offer is accepted is order a home inspection. If you are proactive and get a pre-listing inspection, you have the opportunity to fix these problems before they even show up. If you fix these broken things before you list, there will be fewer items on the inspection and less room for the buyer to negotiate. This leads to a smoother closing.

If you have any questions, give us a call or send us an email. We would love to hear from you!