this weeks question;

Anabelle Baker:

How do I sell my house?

Miriam Engeln:

Choose a great Real Estate Agent with expertise and experience in your market. Ask questions about how they communicate with their clients. Ask how many transactions they have completed in the past year. Do they work part time or full time? Ask them what is their area of expertise and do they have referrals of past clients they can provide for you. Price the Home to Sell, this is where you need a great Listing Agent with real estate experience.

If you price it too high buyers will pass it up without ever stepping through the door. Price it too low, and you’ll give it away to the first taker. Consult with your Realtor to find a happy medium so you don’t lose time or money.

Your agent can help you set a competitive price by comparing recent sales of homes in your area. It starts with cleaning and de-cluttering and can include painting and rearranging furniture.

The goal is to create a welcoming environment that’s easy for buyers to see as their own. Once you get an offer, you will need guidance and comparables to determine whether the price that the buyer is offering is a good offer. Today’s buyers rely heavily on the Internet in their search for the perfect home, and photos play a big role in capturing their attention.

Real estate question of the week

Andrew Sawyer: Do you have any recommendations on real estate books?

Miriam Engeln: Sure I do. I would recommend the following books; Rich dad, poor dad by Robert Kiyosaki. The little red book of selling by Jeffrey Gitomer. Real Estate Investing For Dummies by Tyson and Griswold. The 4 hour workweek by Timothy Ferriss and last but not least; Rich women by Kim Kiyosaki.

Enjoy reading and remember; knowledge is power! Think green, read Kindle.

This week’s question and answer:

Mark Rackliffe:

We just left Aruba after our third trip in the last 18 months. We love the Island and are thinking of buying a condo. We are a little concerned about buying in a foreign country but think it will be a good investment. What are your thoughts? 

Miriam Engeln:

Very often I hear from my clients that they were told that non-residents cannot buy a condominium/ home in Aruba. I can tell you that these stories are not true. All non-residents can buy in Aruba, going through the same process as the Aruban residents. They can buy a property on property land as well as on lease land. The local banks can even finance the purchase up to 60%. The rental income is very good in Aruba and I would love to show you Century 21’s listings during your next visit.