Are you living out of state and trying to sell a house that you own in a different location? It’s more common than home sellers think. Living far away in a state like California makes selling a home more challenging, but not impossible. Professional California house buyers commonly buy homes in Florida, hold them for a few years, and then sell them. Technology is fortunately bridging the gap between homebuyers and sellers, making it easier to sell from afar.
For distant property owners, here are several actionable tips on how to sell a house while living out of state.
Find a Reliable Homebuyer
First things first when navigating an out-of-state real estate sale. Trust is paramount in real estate. You must find a reliable, local company that buys houses and knows how to close quickly. They’re your surrogate, your eyes, and ears on the ground. Local homebuyers know how to work directly with title and escrow companies to get the job done quickly and virtually. Plus, their established relationships in the community can significantly improve your chances of selling without any hiccups.
Sell Off-market When Living Out of State
Listing your home on the market with an agent might not always be the quickest route. While having an agent is a great way to navigate a real estate transaction, the traditional selling process is time-consuming. Home sellers must prepare the house for sale, market it, and then sit waiting for the right buyer. Once one comes your way – hopefully not a tire kicker – you must negotiate with them and hopefully close the sale. Yikes! Each step takes tons of time. When you’re an out-of-state seller, this can be particularly frustrating.
For those who are time-pressed, there are alternative routes to consider. Selling your home to a real estate investor or a ‘We Buy Houses for Cash’ company can expedite the process. These buyers often purchase properties as-is, meaning you won’t need to worry about repairs or home staging. The trade-off here is that you might not get the highest possible price for your home, but the quick sale can be a worthy tradeoff if speed is your top priority. As always, do your research and ensure you’re comfortable with the terms before signing on the dotted line.
Negotiate From the Start
Now, negotiation is where things can get a little tricky. Especially when you’re not physically present to judge the vibes or read between the lines, talking numbers can be tougher. Don’t sweat it! If you’ve done your due diligence in working with a legitimate homebuyer, the communication will be transparent and clear regarding their offer. Open and constant communication with your buyer is key here. Ensure they understand your expectations but are also able to provide you with realistic feedback.
Prepare for the Unexpected
Lastly, be prepared for the unexpected. Selling a house is like a rollercoaster ride – full of ups and downs. There may be last-minute repairs, inspection surprises, or buyer financing issues. These can be harder to handle from a distance but remember – the homebuyer you sell your house to is there to smooth out the kinks. Having a local professional handle these issues can save you a lot of time and potential heartache.
Selling a Home Out of State
Selling a house from out of state can seem like a daunting task. However, with the right approach, it’s entirely doable and might even be rewarding. Find the right homebuyer to work with and close your deal quickly. You can sell a property with ease even from as far away as California.