Should I Stay For Showings at my McKinney TX Home For Sale?
Here in McKinney, we're a friendly bunch -- helpful, too. Often my real estate clients are especially nice, so, when it comes to showing their home for sale, I recommend that the best way to be the most helpful during a showing appointment is to have a sparkling clean home, turn the lights on, and leave the house during the showing time!
That's no problem for most Sellers -- they understand that's what Buyers prefer. But on a rare occasion, a Seller will ask about staying during a showing.
Q: Shouldn't I stay for showings? I want to make sure the Buyers don't miss the upgrades we've made to the home.
As a Seller, remaining in the house during showings isn't recommended. Buyers feel uncomfortable touring a home when the Seller is there.
But, I know my house better than anyone . . . there might be questions.
During a showing, buyers like to take their time. They walk from room to room getting a feel for the home. They'll usually look in the closets, they'll slide open a drawer or two in the kitchen and check-out the pantry space. Not to be nosy -- but to imagine what it would be like living that home! They're mentally placing their furniture in the family room and checking to see if there is enough cabinet space for all their stuff. The Buyer needs to feel comfortable inside the home -- and that takes a little time.
When Sellers are present in the next room, (or even worse, leading the home tour) none of that wonderful bonding happens. Instead of studying the house, Buyers are distracted by the Seller's presence. Buyers move from a buying mind-set to that of a visitor in the home of a stranger they've only just met. Not a comfortable feeling if you're a Buyer.
When the Seller is there, Buyers tend to tour the house as quickly as possible wanting to get out fast so they won't inconvenience the Seller by being in his home.
What if I just stay in the kitchen (or office, or backyard)?
As illogical as it may sound, when the Seller is comfortably at home, and the dogs are running around the backyard, the Buyer's first concern seems to be that of not inconveniencing the Seller with a lengthy visit! A Buyer seems to feel much more comfortable with having the Seller pack up his pets and stay out of his home for a scheduled two-hour block of time. Buyers aren't thinking about inconvenience then -- they're thinking about the house. And that's what the Seller wants, right?
Showings are not left up to chance. The best professional real estate agents know what works and it's their job to take care of their client's best interests!
What questions do you have about buying a McKinney TX home for sale, or, getting one sold?
I'm happy to help you anytime -- just call or email!
Some things are just funny to me. Sometimes, things I think are funny are also funny to other people. Sometimes . . . not so much.
For example, on my wedding day, when I was standing at the alter next to my husband-to-be, our backs to the crowded church, I noticed my maid of honor -- my sister -- standing to my left looking very proper. My mind wandered from the solemn words the minister was saying, back to the times I spent next to my sister with our heads bowed at the dinner table -- each of us trying not to let the giggles make us burst out laughing during the prayer. Then I got an inspiration!
Hey, wouldn't it be funny to try to get my sister to laugh right now? You know, while she's standing in front of everyone at the church?
Since none of the wedding guests could see my face, I gave it my best shot. I tried the crazy grin, then the raised eyebrows, then the crazy grin/raised eyebrow combination.
Oooh, I think I've almost got her -- I'll try a little harder.
Oh, she could see me alright! She tried to act like she didn't notice, but she had to try hard to keep a straight face -- yeah, I thought that was pretty funny. Uh, the minister standing in front of me witnessing all of my facial contortions . . . not so much.
Seems like almost every day I'll come across something funny -- so much so, that I've even started a file of photos I've snapped of funny things seen around town. Like the one of the Hamburgler jungle gym I saw in the backyard of a country property I was showing. Or the one of the Skittles car I see driving around McKinney.
So, I was looking through some photos and found one that I've always liked, but no one else seems to appreciate its humor as much as I do.
One summer in Montana, the kids and I had spent the morning riding up a mountain trail on horseback. It was a crystal clear day and you could see for miles. We reached the hill's summit and stopped to rest the horses and take in the majestic view. As we gazed out at the splendor of God's creation, I said to my son, Hey, hold your arms out and it will look like the horse is eating you for a snack.
What do you think? Funny?
Maybe it's just me.
The Skittles Car in McKinney, TX
This car has fascinated me over the years. I see it parked around town, but have never had the opportunity to meet its owner. The other day while at a traffic light I caught a glimpse of it and was able to snap a pic before the light changed.
Why does this car have Skittles on it?
How did this man come to own this car?
These are questions I just want to learn the answers to!
I have a "Funny Things I've Seen Around Town" page on my website and have been wanting to add this car to my photo menagerie for a while. I love collecting the unusual sites I see here in McKinney and around town.
If you've seen something funny while you've been out and about, send me a pic. I'd love to feature your photo here on my blog!
Often times people ask me, "Do I need to update my house to sell it?"
It's a good question to ask. You want to sell your home -- and you don't want to spend a lot of time with your house on the market. Updating your house will make your home more desirable. It will motivate buyers to move from the shopping stage into the action of making an offer. Homes that are updated and in pristine condition generate excitement from buyers. There is a feeling of urgency to act quickly before anyone else finds this great home. Additionally, it's no surprise that homes that are updated and move-in ready command a higher sales price than an average home that may need some fixing up.
Of course, there is always the option to sell your home as is, without investing any money into updates. In that scenario, a seller will need to take a very hard look at his competition and price his home accordingly. It can be incredibly difficult for a seller to see his unimproved home in a realistic light. When buyers see homes that need work, they start deducting dollars from the offering price and they usually round down by thousands! Stains on the carpet? That's not $300 for steam cleaning, that's a thousand or two off the offer. Funky colors in the kids bedrooms? Two gallons of paint cost under $100, but a buyer sees another $1000 off the offer price. You get the idea.
I am very protective where my client's money is concerned. When it comes to spending money on home improvements to sell your house there are specific improvements that give you the most bang for the buck without draining your bank account.
Give me a call or email me if you'd like some advice on how to make your home stand out from the rest -- I will be happy to help you in any way.
Summer is approaching and for Stonebridge Ranch residents that means it's time to update their photo ID cards for access to the Beach Club and Swimming Pool areas.
You can update your ID cards from April 28th - August 13th on Thursdays from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. or Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Remember:
1. Each resident must have a Stonebridge Ranch photo ID or other form of ID that includes a current photo and Stonebridge Ranch address, such as a valid Texas Drivers License card as proof of residency. ID cards for growing children are replaced with new photos on an "as needed" basis.
2. Lost or Replacement cards are availabe at a cost of $5.00 each.
3. Temporary cards can be issued for $2.00 each.
4. Renewal stickers are no longer required.
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Specializing in fine homes for sale in the North Dallas and Collin County areas including the wonderful neighborhoods of Stonebridge Ranch, Twin Creeks, Craig Ranch, Tucker Hill, Eldorado, Adriatica
Before I was a Realtor . . .
Because I love my career in real estate, I am so very thankful for the exceptional career I enjoyed prior to becoming a Realtor. That experience makes me an even better agent for my Buyers and Sellers and one uniquely qualified to market the most expensive investment families own.
Before I was a Realtor, I was a professional advertising copywriter in Dallas. For several years I wrote advertising every day, all day, focusing on creating marketing campaigns for many different clients. I became adept at writing TV commercials, radio spots, magazine and newspaper ads, billboards, catalogs and brochures. I interviewed and hired voice talent, actors and models and helped plan special events and promotions all for the ad agency's miriad of clientelle.
Then, came that fleeting magical moment in time, 10 years, where I was a full-time stay-at-home mom. Best job in the world! But, as the third and youngest of my precious children started school all day, I set my sites on the next career in my life.
The move to real estate was a logical next step . . .
We had just moved our family from Dallas to the McKinney area -- specifically the Stonebridge Ranch master-planned community. In my typical fashion, I had researched everything about the community and toured practically every home on the market. It wasn't long before I was finding new homes for my friends -- the perfect homes, in fact! I knew McKinney homes inside and out! That, along with my inside connection to the best mortgage banker in Dallas (my husband Max), launched my new career!
How does my background benefit you, my client?
My professional advertising experience directly benefits my clients! Now, instead of creating marketing campaigns for fast-food chains, hotels and home builders, I put that professional advertising expertise to work for Home Sellers. I create the strongest marketing pieces and craft the most strategic marketing plans for every homeowner I represent. That part of my job is non-negotiable. It's a matter of personal pride! Everything representing my Seller and the Seller's property is deliberate, purposeful and top quality!
For Home Buyers, I approach every home search like I'm looking for the best home possible for my own family. I know what it's like to be looking for that First Home. I know what it's like when your family is growing and you want a wonderful place for the kids to make memories. I've been there myself and I've helped many, many other families find their perfect home as well.
For most people there is no bigger transaction that they will ever participate in than the sale or purchase of their home. It requires many steps to navigate through the murky waters of home selection and negotiation, to the peaceful banks of the completed real estate transaction. Seeking solid advice from a professional who really knows the local market could make a big difference, couldn't it?
When thinking of buying a home . . .
My home buying philosophy is on the conservative side. Just because you qualify for $XXX,000s dollars, doesn't mean you need to buy a house that costs every penny of that money. Find out how much you qualify for, then choose how much you care to spend! When you work with me, finding the best home for you at the best value is my top priority! You will never, ever, be encouraged to spend more than you feel comfortable with. Before you look at homes, you need to: Then you need to discuss with that lender, how much of a mortgage payment you are comfortable making each month. Through this conversation you will come up with the housing price point that you are ready to search.
About Getting Financing . . .
Not all Lenders, Brokers, or Mortgage companies are the same. The lending institution you choose and the person handling that transaction makes a difference in how smooth and worry-free your home buying experience is.
Additionally, the Interest Rate, while important, isn't the only factor that determines your expenses. Often times loan applicants think they are getting a great deal because they only focus on the rate, not realizing that there are sometimes extra fees or conditions built in to the loan.
It's important to know your program options -- what type of loan will work best for your situation. Some lenders will only show Buyers the loan type that makes the lender the most money, and because most Home Buyers have little experience in obtaining financing, they don't realize that they have choices. You want to work with a loan officer who will put you in the right program to save you money. After all, you could possibly be locked into that payment for 30 years.
I work with lenders who have proven track-records of excellence in their industry and reputations for looking out for their clients' best interests. If you're interested in my recommendations, contact me at Melanie@MelanieHedrick.com or call 972-816-7205.
Ready to find out how much you qualify for? Click here to fill out an online application .
Find out about money available to you when you purchase a home in McKinney!
Ever seen a professional's name with a whole list of letters and credentials stringing along after it? What does it all mean? Well, in real estate, it means that the professional has spent additional hours/weeks/years on training to be a more specialized agent. Over the past several years, I have focused on attaining the designations that benefit my clients most.
Accredited Seller Representative (ASR) A great percentage of my time is spent working with sellers. It makes sense that having even more specialized education in the most crucial details that benefit Sellers is a bonus for my clients. The ASR education has been invaluable.
Short Sale & Foreclosure Resource (SFR) It would be just fine with me if we never needed this expertise, but the unfortunate reality is that foreclosures are a big part of the market. Buyers are always interested in the possibility of a great deal -- Sellers and homeowners watch them closely hoping that their neighborhoods will escape the negative impact on values that distressed properties can bring.
Short Sales have a deceptively simple sounding name but require enormous patience and fortitude that, frankly, most buyers and their agents are not prepared to endure. It takes a skilled professional, knowledgeable in the specifics of Short Sales, to navigate those treacherous waters.
Graduate, Realtor Institute (GRI) To me, this education is like Realtor grad school. After the many hours of study and test taking, an individual becomes licensed to practice real estate. The professionals who continue on with the GRI training are committed to providing a superior level of real estate expertise.
I am a REALTOR. As a member of the National Association of REALTORS, the Texas Association of REALTORS, and the Collin County Association of REALTORS, I adhere to a strict Code of Ethics that the average licensed real estate agent is not bound by.
Articles written by Melanie Hedrick:
What First Time Home Buyers in McKinney Need to Know
What McKinney Home Sellers Need to Know
All Lenders are not Created Equal
Preparing Your House to Sell
We Get to Keep the Earnest Money, Right?
I'm Looking for a Deal -- I want to see Foreclosures
Collin County Schools are some of the Best in Texas
Kind words from those with experience . . .
Client testimonials
Melanie was GREAT! She was very knowledgeable about the housing market, it seems she knew every detail of every house on the market! She was also very responsive. Every time I called or emailed, I would get a response back in minutes. I loved the fact that she listened to what I wanted, and my house sold in less than a month! It was perfect!
Brittany & Adam Walterscheid
You are "top-notch" and we appreciate all that you have done for us!
The Santowskis
My heartfelt thanks and appreciation for your hard work ... I am greatly impressed and satisfied -- thank you for your excellent service!
Mona Alnaeemi
I knew I wanted Melanie to list our house. She stood out -- I could sense her excitement and I could see the wheels spinning ...
Collier Family
On behalf of my whole family, thank you for your great efforts and work. I cannot express how much I appreciate your hard work in finding my dream home. It has everything that I wanted! i will tell my friends and relatives about the excellent service I received from you. Thank you for always being there!
Abdullah Family
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