Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Woodmont Realty SELLER GUIDEBOOK 2024

DEFINING The Home Selling Experience

You’ve made the decision to sell your property, now you need a partner you can trust to make that happen At Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Woodmont Realty, we define real estate every day, for every client, developing a unique selling strategy just for you

Working with us you gain a trusted advisor who has the knowledge and experience that comes from being part of an award-winning company that has helped individuals and families make their dreams come true for over three decades As a member of the global network of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, we have the resources to bring a new level of quality to the real estate experience We are continuously redefining how to serve our clients and leveraging the latest innovations in technology to ensure an efficient, seamless selling process

From helping you position and prepare your property for sale, until the closing process is complete, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Woodmont Realty will be with you every step of the way Our essential partners are the best in the industry to offer a fully integrated team of professionals who are all committed to your ultimate success

We hope the information provided is helpful for your next journey Thank you for the opportunity to guide you through the selling process

Ginger

Getting Started

WE BEGIN BY UNDERSTANDING YOUR GOALS

Whether you need a larger space, have decided to downsize, or life is taking you on a new adventure, selling your property is a big decision It can also be an emotional one

Let us help you navigate through your goals together

BETTER MARKETING. BETTER RESULTS.

Our marketing will bring the unique story and value of your property to life for potential buyers Our approach is to introduce your property to the broadest possible audience of buyers and achieve the best result with the highest price in the shortest amount of time

The Process

WE SIMPLIFY THE PATH TO HOME SELLING

Our team is trained to use our exclusive, sales and marketing strategies that are tailored specifically to meet your needs. Every property is unique and an effective selling approach should reflect that

Our system combines first-hand knowledge of the current market, real-time sales and listing data, and a comprehensive marketing plan to ensure the most effective method to selling your property

Make decision to sell your home

Select REALTOR® sign listing agreement

Determine your time frame

Review comparables and market activity

Determine list price

Receive offer(s)

Appraisal Contingency Ends

List home on MLS & social media - go public to buyers

Review offer contingencies: home inspection, financing, appraisal contingencies

Host Open House Measure & Optimize Marketing Strategies

Contact Utility & Home Insurance Companies 10 Days Before Closing

Finance Contingency Ends/Mortgage

Approval (may be pre-approved)

Agree on Final Terms: Contract Acceptance

Home Inspection/Due Diligence Ends

Book Closing Date with Title Attorney

Final Termite Inspection (if requested)

Buyer’s Final Walk Through Closing Day MOVING DAY!

Market Analysis

ASSESSING THE MARKET

Your property’s unique story is only one part of the selling equation The other factor is the current real estate market Specifically, pricing trends in your area and other available properties that might attract the same potential buyers. While you have a unique perspective on your property’s value, it is also important to think like a buyer

We will take a close look at both the opportunities and challenges that may exist once you decide to sell As a result, we can provide you with realistic expectations with regard to what price you can expect and how long your property may be on the market

PRICING ANALYSIS

WHAT AFFECTS PRICE

Location: Homes in highly desirable neighborhoods with better amenities command higher prices

Current Market: Based on today’s market, competition, financing, and economic conditions

Property Condition: It is important to make sure everything is in working order, repairs are made, and the house is ready to show to potential buyers

WHAT DOES NOT AFFECT PRICE

Cost: What you paid for the home or the cost to rebuild it make no difference in the current market value

Proceeds: What you need to net from the home sales makes no difference in value

Opinion of Others: What your home previously appraised for; what your neighbor’s house sold for; what the tax office says it is worth; what it is insured for; emotions based on memories; prices of homes where you are moving

Impressions

FIRST IMPRESSIONS MATTER

When selling any type of real estate, you only have one chance to make the right first impression Whether a potential buyer is viewing your property for the first time in a photograph, video, or in person, what they see will have a tremendous impact on their interest. Within three seconds of seeing a photo, buyers have formed a positive or negative opinion on your property

WE WILL GUIDE YOU ON WAYS TO SET YOUR PROPERTY APART

Cleaning and repairs to maximize ‘curb appeal’

De-Cluttering so your home feels more spacious

Professional staging to enhance the appeal of your property

Neutralizing so potential buyers can envision themselves in your space

Pricing strategy, timing, property upgrade recommendations, and more

YOUR PROPERTY’S UNIQUE STORY

Your FOREVER AGENT will work with you to showcase what is special and unique about your home and tell the story of your property in a way that will help buyers make an emotional connection, and as a result, want to make it their own

Does it offer a unique lifestyle?

Are there special features or design attributes?

What is the greatest selling feature?

Does the neighborhood offer amenities?

Is it energy efficient or eco-friendly?

Is it conveniently located?

Bringing your property to life

OUR COMPREHENSIVE APPROACH IS AN INVESTMENT IN YOUR SUCCESS AND INCLUDES:

High-quality photography and videography

Best practices in technology, including online, mobile, and digital marketing solutions

Connecting directly with potential buyers through local agents, corporate relocation experts, and international markets

Leveraging numerous exclusive national and global real estate referral networks

Open House events tailored to your property

Exposure

MAXIMUM EXPOSURE

At Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Woodmont Realty, our proactive, broad marketing approach goes far beyond simply adding your property to the Multiple Listing Services (MLS) or placing a sign on your property

Your home is featured across a multitude of real estate websites

When you put your trust in us, you can be sure that we will leverage every available resource to attract qualified buyers

USING A TARGETED APPROACH

We will also identify market segments for potential buyers With our unparalleled knowledge of the local market and access to robust data about buyers, we can identify the most appropriate market and make sure that your marketing strategy is specifically targeted

Appealing to Buyers

WE BRING YOUR PROPERTY TO THE BUYER

We don’t wait for the buyers to come to you The latest survey from the National Association of REALTORS® reports that 97% of homebuyers search online.

The unmatched combination of Berkshire Hathaway Inc , Warren Buffett, plus Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices drives more than 73% of the real estate industry’s news coverage Our closest competitor has a mere 10%

We call this the HALO EFFECT. HOW

29%

Home Builder or their REALTOR®

6% Friend, Neighbor, Relative 6%

2% 1%

Get Connected

WE HAVE AN AMAZING WEBSITE

Providing the best local search tools, our website and mobile app make it easy for buyers to search 24/7 from a variety of devices including, computer, smartphone, or tablet Enabling potential buyers to search by numerous filters such as walkability and schools attracts more buyers to your listing

Our mobile apps provide innovative augmented reality search that allows the consume e updates

SOCIAL A OUSES

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Woodmont Realty provides the most extensive social and digital ads for new listings and open house weekends to give our clients a competitive edge Clicks from these social shares are linked to the listing page where we deploy further retargeting ads and lead capturing capabilities to attract the buyer back to our listed properties

Every property listed by a Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Woodmont Realty agent will have a digital marketing advertisement launched within 24 hours of the listing active on the Multiple Listing Services (MLS)

Open Houses

OPEN HOUSE MARKETING AND EVENTS GENERATE MORE BUYERS

Open Houses and special event marketing are designed to attract the most potential buyers, create awareness throughout your communities, and provide significant advertising and exposure for your property

During the week before the Open House event, we focus on pre- and post- event marketing which may include Facebook and Instagram ads, social media posts/stories, video, email flyers blasted to our company’s agent database to over 4,000 local real estate professionals, neighborhood marketing, and a variety of strategically paid advertisements, generating potential buyers for your property

Local Expert

REACHING LOCAL BUYERS’ AGENTS

To effectively market your property to other real estate professionals, your property will be listed on RealTracs, our local Multiple Listing Services (MLS). The MLS is a primary source of information that is accessed by other agents, but also serves as a data feed for a myriad of online listing services where your property will be advertised to increase exposure of your property

NEGOTIATING WITH A BUYER

You can trust your Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Woodmont Realty sales professional to be an outstanding advocate to help you negotiate the most favorable terms We will be with you every step of the way through closing and beyond

Your FOREVER AGENT will remain focused solely on your best interests throughout the negotiating process, using their expertise and experience securing successful outcomes to ensure that you feel informed, well represented, and confident that you are getting the very best return on your investment

89% OF ALL BUYERS ARE REPRESENTED BY AN AGENT *NationalAssociationofREALTORS®

Relocation

WORKING WITH A GLOBAL NETWORK

Middle Tennessee is simply a great place to call home and Nashville ranked 5th hottest real estate market of 2023 according to zillow.com. It is likely that the buyer for your home is someone moving to the area for either a work-related job transfer or simply is attracted to the lifestyle and pace of the Southeast

Our team of highly skilled relocation sales professionals work to ensure these individuals and families are aware of your property listing as a possible match for their buying needs.

Woodmont Realty is the trusted advisor to a myriad of corporations and global mobility organizations and we have successfully assisted thousands of corporate employees over the years Our award-winning relocation team holds leadership positions in all the local, national, and global trade organizations engaged in the mobility industry We have been recognized with dozens of ‘quality service awards’ by this community and we are proud to be recognized as the “company of choice’ with these clients

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices

Networking

REFERRAL NETWORKS EXPAND OUR REACH

Through our extensive broker network around the world, we can assist you with your next move even when it’s outside of our market area Our agents can introduce you to other skilled real estate professionals in your new destination to ensure a smooth transition and trusted representation

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Global Network HomeServices of America Network

HOME PARTNERS OF AMERICA

We have strategic relationships with Home Partners of America for the “Lease with the Right to Purchase” program Qualifying properties will be purchased by Home Partners of America and leased to approved residents These programs may be a great option for qualified properties.

Home Partners of America has a national program if you are relocating out-of-state Our Relocation Department can assist you with making a connection

Our Trusted Partners

HOMESERVICES IS OUR MIDDLE NAME

Consumers seek a simplified purchase process, and we have carefully vetted essential partners who work collaboratively to provide a streamlined and efficient closing process

MORTGAGE PARTNER

Greg Goodman and his team at SWBC Mortgage are committed to providing an exceptional client experience They offer personalized mortgage solutions, fast customized quotes, great rates, and service with integrity

WARRANTY PARTNER

The moment you list your property, you can secure a home warranty to cover any unexpected repairs that arise during the listing period. The warranty not only protects the major components and systems of the home it can also be transferred to the buyer at closing

CLOSING PARTNERS

Phoenix Title and Bankers Title both have long standing relationships with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Woodmont Realty. Both title companies provide a broad range of real estate transactional services including title insurance, residential and commercial closings, and escrow services

Our Difference

WE HANDLE THE DETAILS SO YOU DON’T HAVE TO

At Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Woodmont Realty, we take pride in how we do things Our difference is in the details

Our team of FOREVER AGENTS are proudly affiliated with local, state, and national associations of REALTORS®, and are bound by a strict code of ethics

Our agents are well-versed in negotiation strategies, and strive to keep you in control throughout the entire transaction process

We highly recommend utilizing our trusted partners to assist with all aspects of lending, legal, insurance, and warranty needs, ensuring a smooth and seamless closing process without any unexpected delays or surprises You can rest assured that when you work with us, you'll be receiving the highest level of quality and trust

Forever Agents

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A FOREVER AGENT AND A REAL ESTATE AGENT?

While there is no one official definition of either title, we believe what distinguishes one from the other is the following:

Traditionally, a Real Estate Agent is mostly focused on ethically and successfully facilitating real estate transactions

A FOREVER AGENT seeks to serve consumers and clients by also providing ongoing advice and assistance throughout their lifetime real estate journey

While all FOREVER AGENTS must be licensed Real Estate Agents, not all view their role of being committed to serving consumers or clients as a FOREVER AGENT for life

As we believe you will see in your interaction with the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Real Estate FOREVER AGENT who share this guide with you, this approach to serving consumers and clients is one that regrettably is not universally shared within the real estate industry

That’s why you want an advocate who is knowledgeable in the real estate process and has the backing of a world-class brand in your corner

As Real Estate’s FOREVER BRAND, we clearly favor and encourage our forever network agents to go beyond just serving transactional needs

Here’s to your real estate and lifestyle success.

Your Trusted Advisor

FOR YOU, FOR LIFE. YOUR FOREVER AGENT

Real estate agents claim they would like to be your real estate for life As Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices network FOREVER AGENTS, we are committed to providing our clients with a lifetime of value which includes relevant resources and tools like the real estate lifestyle planning guide that can assist you in developing real estate and lifestyle-related strategies. We look forward to earning your respect as your real t t t t d d i

REAL ESTATE GLOSSARY

ADJUSTABLE RATE MORTGAGE (ARM)

An adjusted interest rate mortgage is a type of loan that offers a low introductory interest rate that adjusts or changes every year according to market conditions for the life of the loan

AMORTIZATION

Amortization is the paying off of a debt with a fixed repayment schedule in regular installments over a period of time

ANNUAL PERCENTAGE RATE (APR)

The average annual finance charge (including feeds and other costs) divided by the amount borrowed

BACK UP OFFER

A buyer’s broker represents the interests of the client buying the property It is their duty to provide guidance to the buyer during the process

BUYER’S MARKET ANALYSIS

A comparative market analysis (CMA) is an estimate of a home’s value based on recently sold and similar properties in the immediate area Real estate agents and brokers create CMA reports to help sellers set listing prices for their homes and, less commonly, to help buyers make competitive offers

CLOSING

The closing (or settlement) is the legal process of transferring ownership of a home from one person(s) to another

CLOSING DISCLOSURE (CD)

This form is designed to provide disclosures that will be helpful to consumers in understanding all of the costs of the transaction This form must be provided to consumers before the consummation of the loan

CREDIT LINE

A line of credit is any credit source extended to a person This includes a car loan, personal loan, credit cards, or any situation where you have borrowed money for the purchase of an item

CREDIT REPORT

A credit report is a record of an individual’s history of borrowing and repaying debts A credit report is used to assess how much of a risk a potential borrower is when applying for a loan

DOWN PAYMENT

A down payment is a percentage of the total purchase of a home paid at the beginning of a mortgage loan A down payment is typically between 5 and 25 percent of the total value of the home

EQUITY

Equity is essentially stock or ownership in a property In terms of a home, the borrower gains equity in their home as they pay off their mortgage

EARNEST MONEY

Earnest money is a showing of commitment from the buyer to the seller The buyer will entrust a dollar amount, usually 5% of the asking price, to a neutral party If the seller rejects the buyer’s offer, the buyer will get their money back If the seller accepts the offer and the buyer backs out for any reason, the buyer loses that money

ESCROW ACCOUNT

Escrow is essentially an account where funds/assets in the purchase of a home are held until all the specified conditions of the purchase are met Usually property taxes and insurance funds are held in escrow Lawyers commonly act as escrow agents in mortgage transactions, securing the property and examining documents to ensure the terms of the sale are met on both ends

FIXED-INTEREST MORTGAGE

A type of loan that has a fixed interest rate that borrowers will pay over the term or length of the loan

FORECLOSURE

A home that has been reclaimed by the lender because the homeowner failed to pay back their loan These homes are advertised at a discounted price, but come in ‘as-is’ condition

HOMEOWNER’S ASSOCIATION FEES

Fees associated with living in a housing development or condo These fees cover the costs to maintain common areas and other amenities

HOME APPRAISAL

A survey of a home used to determine the current market value

HOME INSPECTION

A survey of a property to assess any issues with the condition of the property or systems including water damage, foundation damage, faulty heating or wiring, appliances, and other systems

HUD

The Department of Housing and Urban Development

HUD HOME

A 1-to-4 until residential property acquired by HUD as a result action on an FHAinsured mortgage HUD becomes the property owner and offers it for sale to recover the loss on the foreclosure claim

LOAN ESTIMATE

This form is designed to provide disclosures that will be helpful to consumers in understanding the key features, costs, and risks of the mortgage loan for which they are applying, and must be provided to consumers no later than the third business day after they submit a loan application

MULTIPLE OFFER

Occurs when more than one prospective buyer makes an offer on a property by submitting a Contract of Sale Multiple offers often happen in a seller‘s market when competition for residential property is greatest and there are more buyers than there are properties for sale

SELLER’S BROKER

A seller’s broker represents the interest of the property owner selling their home It is the duty to share information about the property with potential buyers and provide guidance to the seller during the process of marketing and selling their home

SHORT SALE

A situation where the lender agrees to let a property owner sell their property for less than the amount owed on the mortgage

SURVEY

Confirms a property’s boundary lines and legal description It also determines other restrictions or easements included in the property

TITLE INSURANCE

Protects the lender or owner against loss in the event of a property dispute