WHAT YOU’LL FIND IN THIS PRESENTATION
Core Values
Representation Options
Everyone Has Advice
Dual Agent
The Big Question
Buyer Broker Commission
Answer: Absolutely Not!
One Line-Item Additional Expense?
Proprietary Tools
How Many People Does it Take?
Celebrate our Clients
Seiden + Solar
Mark in the Community
Mark’s Awards and More
Mark in the News
Mark’s Reports
Marketing Your Property
Digital Photography
Home Staging
Promote Your Property Globally
Promote Your Property Nationally
Promote Your Property Locally
Marketing to the Max!
Open Houses Like No Other
Feedback on Showings
Home Owners’ Warranty
The First Three Weeks
Welcome
Our Story
Our Road to Success
Meet the Team
Remarkable Properties
Our Distinctive, Exceptional and Luxury Homes
Remarkable Marketing
Remarkable Promotion
Remarkable Aerial Photography and Brochures
Remarkable Key Resources
Remarkable 3D Virtual Tour!
Does All This Work?
Listen to What People Have to Say Online
A Little Humor
Price Smart/Sell Smart
Intelligent Pricing and Timing
The Value of Your Home
Comparable Market Analysis
Online Home Values
Estimated Sellers’ Net Proceeds
Notes
Additional Services
Preferred Service Providers
Credit Repair and Monitoring
Short-Selling for the Financially Distressed
El Sueño Americano
Our Vision
Welcome!
Go to: HomeMan.net
Welcome [wel-kuh-m]
verb
Greet (someone arriving) in a glad, polite, or friendly way
As one of the top three out of over 13,000 agents in our “MLS” for over 25 straight years, and being one of the top three teams in Westchester and Putnam Counties, we certainly sold, and continue to market, a large number of properties for sale. And that clearly is the result of our efforts for our clients.
But those “sales and signs” mean more than just marketing houses for sale or selling a buyer a home. All of our clients are, or were, going through major life transitions each and every day during every transaction, whether the transition was desired or unfortunately forced upon them! It’s not just about “buying or selling a home.” It never is.
We strive to listen to and understand our clients’ unique situations. We want to know their hopes, dreams and even fears. We guide people through their transition in life as everyone needs help during change!
No one should do it alone and without the knowledge and experience to move forward. That is what we do.
We feel privileged to share in some of the most important moments of our clients’ lives. We appreciate their faith in us and strive to create an experience for them that is authentic, honest and inspiring.
Because, we must be successful to assist our clients through their major life transitions . . . Failing to do so, is just not an option!
Mark, Allyson and Amy did a terrific job helping us sell our home. It takes strategic thinking, street smarts, local knowledge, patience and creativity to get a deal done. And Mark and his team have it all. From day one they were attentive, focused and always a pleasure to deal with. Issues will always arise, and Mark was always ready to jump in and find solutions. Their attention to detail as we got ready for closing was off the charts helpful — highly recommended . . . thanks Mark and team.
– Stuart and Adrienne Gruskin
THE MARK SEIDEN REAL ESTATE TEAM
Our
story
. . .
As a true pioneer in his field, Mark was the “first” in so many respects in Westchester County and the surrounding counties. In the 1990’s, Mark was the first Realtor® to place his photo on a business card, put his contact information on a “for sale” sign so buyers could get answers quickly to their questions, use “virtual tours” on the internet and print color postcards to mail out to procure buyers for his sellers, despite the prohibitive expense of printing in color at that time.
Go to: homeman.net/testimonials/
Starting in early 2000, while other brokerages continued to advertise using “old fashioned print media,” Mark had the vision to realize the buyers weren’t looking in newspapers anymore, but were searching on the internet. Mark made the switch from “print to digital” and never looked back. The interesting thing is . . . , all the chain and regional real estate brokerages scoffed and ridiculed his approach. Yet, within just a year or two after Mark implemented his innovative marketing strategy, the other brokerages all followed suit. Do you know of any brokerage today where agents are not putting their color photos on marketing, using online advertising, etc.? Mark prides himself on forging new ground, embracing technology and leveraging his creativity and imagination.
Throughout this presentation, you’ll gain a better understanding of our team approach and the role that cutting edge marketing plays in the sale of your home.
OUR ROAD TO SUCCESS
1961 Mark Seiden is born.
1978 Lois Seiden Real Estate is founded.
1994 Mark joins Rotary Club of Briarcliff Manor.
1997 Lois Seiden Real Estate sells to Coldwell Banker.
1979 Mark graduates from Ossining High School.
1993 Mark Seiden starts real estate career, joins Lois Seiden Real Estate.
1983 Mark graduates from Cornell University.
1992 Mark and Amy get married.
2002 Mark is #1 Coldwell Banker Westchester Agent for fifth straight year.
2015 Mark receives his 100th online testimonial on Zillow.
2003 Mark leaves Coldwell Banker to open Mark J. Seiden Real Estate, Inc.
2014 Mark sells his 1,500th home.
2013 Mark celebrates 20 years selling real estate.
2016 Mark becomes National Coach with Workman Success Systems.
2021 Mark Seiden expands to Connecticut.
2004 Mark opens El Sueno Americano Division.
2005 Allyson Davidov joins the Team.
2006 Mark receives IFCA Outstanding Community Service Award.
2009 Mark obtains CDPE designation and moves into larger office in Briarcliff Manor.
MARK J.
2008 Mark changes company name to Mark Seiden Real Estate Team. Mark sells his 1,000th home.
2023 Voted BEST REAL ESTATE OFFICE for Westchester Magazine’s Best of Westchester.
2023 Mark is selected as one of Westchester’s Top Real Estate Agents according to Westchester Magazine.
MEET THE TEAM
Mark Seiden, Rainmaker/Director of Team Operations
Mark Seiden was born to become a real estate leader and professional coach. As a graduate of Cornell University with post-graduate credentials from the University of California–Berkeley, he began his career in 1993 at Lois Seiden Real Estate of Westchester County, New York, and was the agency’s top agent each year until it was sold in 1997. He continued his ascent by earning a position as the Number 1 Agent for all of Westchester County at Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage for five consecutive years (1997-2002). In 2003, he founded Mark J. Seiden Real Estate, Inc., rebranding it as the Mark Seiden Real Estate Team in 2008.
Since 2004, Mark was and continues to be ranked among the Top 3 Agents for selling single-family homes in all of Westchester/Putnam Counties (over 13,000 agents) — ranking Number 1 in 2008, 2014 and 2015.
A natural mentor and gifted communicator, Mark and his work have been featured in articles in the New York Times, New York Post, Real Estate In-Depth, Westchester Magazine and numerous other publications. In 2016, Mark was recruited by Verl Workman of Workman Success Systems, who is recognized by Inman as one of the top 25 coaches. Mark’s role is to coach other Realtors, sharing his own experiences so that others may benefit. 2023 proved to be a busy year! Mark received 2 accolades from Westchester Magazine! He was selected as one of Westchester Top Real Estate Agents and his office was voted BEST REAL ESTATE OFFICE! In his spare time, Mark loves to cook, play tennis, travel the world and spend time with his family.
WHAT MATTERS MOST? HISTORY, KNOWLEDGE,
In 30+ years Mark has sold over 2,600 properties and counting . . . R
Allyson Davidov, Listing Partner
Allyson joined the Mark Seiden Real Estate Team in 2005. As the Team’s Listing Partner, Allyson has led the sellerrepresentation side of the Team and has been the driving force in closing over 750 properties, establishing Mark J. Seiden as a Top 3 Agent in all of Westchester County.
Proficient in the art of selling, negotiating, problem-solving and closing deals, Allyson makes the process smooth and seamless. When it comes to selling homes, Allyson uses her natural energy and enthusiasm to make her clients the happiest sellers in the world.
INDUSTRY
Allyson is active in the local real estate environment, participating in seminars, networking events and community outings in order to meet new people and build enduring relationships.
A long-time resident of Ossining, Allyson has lived in the metropolitan New York area for about 40 years. She received her undergraduate degree from the University of Vermont and a master’s degree from New York University. Allyson grew up in Massachusetts and is a lifelong Patriots and Celtics fan, but somehow shed her Boston accent and raised a family full of NY Knicks fans. She enjoys reading, playing tennis, movies and 70’s music.
In 20+ years Allyson has sold over 750 properties and counting . . .
Buyer and Showing Partners
Allison Imondo, Senior Buyer’s Partner
I epitomize professionalism and integrity, while providing the most efficient service in the industry. My strong negotiating abilities and first-rate communication skills are what my clients value and appreciate the most.
Michele L. Hamburg, Esq., Buyer’s Partner, Hablo Español
I am driven by a desire to help my clients find their dream home, while making the process as seamless as possible. I bring a wealth of knowledge, integrity and attention to detail to all my transactions. Creating lasting relationships is very important to me, as I strive to get to know my clients and their dreams.
George Gabor, Buyer’s Partner
Being a 30 year resident of this area, I am known to be a strong negotiator who understands the unique complexities of the real estate transaction from beginning to end. I use my expertise to educate and guide my clients through the entire process to a successful conclusion.
Rob DeCourcey, Buyer’s Partner
As a lifelong resident of Westchester County and 20 years of experience in the marketing industry, my knowledge of the area is strong. I have acquired expert training in the real estate industry which assures my ability to make your home buying experience a complete success.
Leon Stokes, Showing Specialist
Making people happy is not just what I do . . . It’s who I am and what I bring to the table. My work ethic is second only to my dedication and commitment to you. In my spare time, I love spending time with family and friends, walking my four “fur” babies.
Jennifer Picucci, Sales Associate
I have extensive experience in customer service, sales, and marketing, with a genuine passion for real estate. I love helping my clients achieve homeownership, supporting and educating them through every step of the process. I focus on building strong relationships with my clients. From the big questions to the little details, I’ve got you covered!
Client Care Specialists
Eiddie Baret Executive Assistant Showing Specialist
Alyssa Nealon Director of Fun Times
Stephanie Tapia Field Services Coordinator, Hablo Español
Amy Seiden Director of Community Philanthropy
Angel Diego Transaction Coordinator
Angeli Sediego Client Care Coordinator
Representation Options
Representation [re-pri-zen-tā-shen ] verb, present tense
the action of speaking or acting on behalf of someone or the state of being so represented
New York State Disclosure Form for Buyer and Seller
requires real estate licensees who are acting as agents of buyers or sellers of property to advise the potential buyers or sellers with whom they work of the nature of their agency relationship and the rights and obligations it creates. This disclosure will help you to make informed choices about your relationship with the real estate broker and its sales agents.
Real Estate Agency Disclosure Notice Given to Prospective Parties
Connecticut law requires all real estate brokerage firms and their affiliated licensees (“licensee”) to perform certain basic duties when dealing with a buyer, seller, landlord or tenant. Until you enter into a written brokerage agreement with the licensee for clientlevel representation you are considered a “prospective party” and the licensee is NOT your agent.
Is there a benefit to the Seller to list a property with a Brokerage that claims to have the most number of Buyers?
SomeAgentsandBrokeragesmayreducetheirCommission totheSellerfor“double-endeddeals,”andtheSellerslovethat!
AndsomeBrokeragespaytheirAgentsabonusfor “double-endeddeals,”andtheAgentslovethat!
But the Sellers LOSE their Brokerage’s and Agent’s Fiduciary Duties of Full Disclosure and Undivided Loyalty!
The Brokerages and the Listing Agents have a CONFLICT OF INTEREST with their own Sellers!
What will that cost the Sellers?
Pure Seller’s Agent
Fulland Undivided FiduciaryDuties totheSellers!
ListingAgent
ABCRealty
Designated or Pure Dual Agent
Buyer’sAgent
ABCRealty
Limited Fiduciary Duties to the Sellers! Can’t give advice! Can’t disclose! It’s against the law!
Dual Agent with Designated Sales Agents
... A designated sales agent cannot provide the full range of fiduciary duties to the landlord or tenant. A designated sales agent cannot provide full range of fiduciary duties to the buyer or seller. The designated sales agent must explain that like the dual agent under whose supervision they function, they cannot provide undivided loyalty. A buyer or seller should carefully consider the possible consequences of a dual agency relationship with designated sales agents before agreeing to such representation.
Did the Listing Agent or the Brokerages who claim to have the most number of Buyers tell you this?
The Big Question
Question: Do You Think You Will Buy Or Sell A Home For the Same Price No Matter Which Real Estate Agent You Select?
Answer: Obviously NOT!
Let’s ask this question about another profession—
Are all lawyers the same? The law is the law and it is the same for everyone, correct?
And, the law is written somewhere that all the Judges and Lawyers use, yes?
Does that mean all lawyers win the same number of cases, represent clients and litigate in court in the same way?
They all have the identical license, but does every lawyer have the exact same talent . . . and winning results?
Isn’t that the same for real estate agents too? Don’t they all have the same license and work with the same homes on the MLS, buyers, sellers and other agents?
So, does that mean that each agent will have the same results in this market? Let’s see . . .
If you need to buy or sell a home, do you think you will buy or sell a home for the same price no matter which real estate agent you select? Do you think that out of over 13,000 agents that work in Westchester County, that all agents have the same strategic pricing, marketing, negotiating and deal making skills? Your agent is responsible for successfully coordinating, managing and negotiating with a multitude of professionals. And, you need the best in the business!
Another Question
Question: How Many Real Estate Agents Do You Get When You
Hire a Real Estate Company to Represent You?
Answer: Probably Just One!
When you hire us, you get much more than just an agent! You hire a dedicated TEAM. We’ll provide you with the ultimate customer service, keen negotiating skills and ongoing communication So, if you are selling a home, we know how to market the home to maximize the buyer traffic as well as how to navigate the complexities of bidding wars. We WILL get you a HIGHER PRICE.
Still wondering about our company? Read what clients have to say about our team. Check out our 175+ testimonials on numerous sites by visiting HomeMan.net! You deserve a local real estate company that is small and flexible to meet your needs in this fast paced, ever changing real estate profession!
Negotiation expertise, unbeatable service and remarkable attention to detail. What else could real estate consumers want for their real estate representation? So, when it comes to representing our sellers and buyers, we are the BEST!
Go to: homeman.net/testimonials/
Sellers are NO longer obligated to pay-out the
(National Association of Realtors )
DOJ is RIGHT! (Federal Department of Justice)
Buyers must now sign a Buyer's Brokerage Agreement to work with Buyers' Agents regarding Buy-Side paid Commissions. So, how will the Buyers’ Agents get paid?
TheBuyerswillpaytheBuyers’Brokeragesdirectlyatclosing... TheBuy-SideCommissionsmaybeincludedintothesales price,wherebytheSellerswillpay-outthe Buyers’BrokeragesCommissionsfrom theSellers’proceeds.
Must Sellers offer and obligate themselves to pay-out a Buy-Side Broker’s Commission when they sign a Listing Agreement with a Brokerage?
Agents and Brokerages are panicking
Answer: Absolutely Not! MODE
regarding their Buy-Side Commissions! Therefore, they are telling Sellers that in order to sell their homes, that Sellers MUST offer and obligate themselves to pay a Buyer’s Brokerage Commission!
Agents are stating that if Sellers don’t offer Commissions, the Agents won’t show the properties!
That is NOT True! That’s a breach of an Agent’s Fiduciary Duties!
The Sellers do NOT need to offer or obligate themselves to an offer of compensation to the Buy-Side Brokerage. PERIOD!
However, that does not preclude a Buyer’s agent from presenting an offer to the Sellers, that includes a Seller paid Buy-Side Commission to the Buyer’s Brokerage.
The Sellers may entertain offers from any ready, willing, and able Buyers. The Sellers will then evaluate each individual offer based on the Net price after Commissions and the terms of each offer.
Why are agents protecting their Commissions instead of their clients money?
The Sellers will decide which offer or offers, if any, are best to either counteroffer, or if there's one offer the Sellers will accept.
If the BEST offer submitted includes a Seller paid Buy-Side Commission request, which still Nets the Seller the most money, then the Seller has the option to take that offer. But if the best offer doesn’t include a Commission request, then the Seller doesn’t have to pay-out a Buy-Side Commission!
What is the Value of a Real Estate Agent? Are Real Estate Agents all the same? Are they all ju One Line-Item Additional Expense
Question:
How does a Real Estate Agent EARN a Commission?
Answer:
Make more money for the Seller than the expense of the Commission, that’s how! It’s called ROI!
w you how the al Estate Team is m Additional Expense r property...
There are approximately 13,000 Real Estate Agents within our local multiple listing system (mls). It’s Time to Make More Money!
DoesthelowestCommissionanAgentchargesequatetothemostmoneysavedbythe Sellerinatransaction?
IfoneAgent’sCommissionishigherthananother’s,isitpossiblethatoneAgenthas moretalent,skillsandtoolstoNetaSellerTWO,THREE,FIVEpercentorMOREprofitfor thatSeller?Inotherwords,wouldyoupay$10,000ormoretomake$30,000,$50,000, $75,000ormore?Doesthatmathwork?
Inthis“biddingwar”market,over90%oftheAgents,considereda“standardAgent,”will probablyattain$10k,$30k,$65kormoreovertheaskingprice Thatisagiven
But,whatifa“moretalentedandskilled”Agentcouldmakeanadditional$20k,$50kor moreaboveandbeyondthe“standardAgent?”Shouldthosedollarsjustbe“leftonthe table”because,hey,asaSeller,Igotoverthelistingpriceanyway?
We give our Sellers the “strategic edge” in this market to make MORE money on a sale of a property than our competitors can. And we have the proprietary tools to PROVE it. Can other Brokerages’ Agents prove that?
Invest with the Mark Seiden Real Estate Team! We will make you More Money than the One Line-Item Additional Expense of the Broker’s Compensation! Don’t Just Spend Money to Sell! Invest in a Master Negotiator and Make a Higher Profit! An Agent and a Brokerage must EARN their Commission. The Seller must EARN a “Return on the Seller’s Commission Investment!”
Many Buyers are hesitant to increase their price by "thousands of dollars" to buy a property because all the Buyers hear is TEN$ of THOUSAND$ more!
But, what if YOUR LISTING AGENT could show Buyers, who are negotiating on YOUR PROPERTY, that if they increase their price TO YOU by, let's say $50,000..., that may really only increase the Buyer’s down payment by $10,000 (if 20% down) and add $252.83/mo. (if 6.5% interest rate), meaning ONLY an additional $8.43 a day... tax deductible!
Now the Buyers are more likely to come up in price... for YOU, the Seller, to MAKE MORE MONEY!
And we have many other proprietary tools too, including one to help Buyers finance their Buy-Side Commissions, without the Seller paying-out the Buy-Side Commission or raising the Sales Price to include a Buy-Side Commission in the price.
HOW MANY PEOPLE AND PROFESSIONALS ARE
Do you think the only thing a Real Estate Agent will do is “put the seller’s home on the computer” or “unlock the door to show a buyer a home?”
The fact is, your Real Estate Agent is responsible for successfully coordinating, managing and negotiating with everyone who is shown on the following lists, which is based on a typical transaction.
Your Agent’s responsibility is to make sure every participant gets the job done!
# of People Type/Title/Profession of Participant
2 Sellers’ Real Estate Agent & Broker/Manager of office (follow Policies/Procedures/Ethics and Law)
2 Buyers’ Real Estate Agent & Broker/Manager of office (follow Policies/Procedures/Ethics and Law)
2 Sellers (Privately owned, Estate, Foreclosure-Bank Owned, Short-Sale, etc.)
3 Sellers’ friends/family/work associates who provide advice/counsel
2 Buyers
3 Buyers’ friends/family/work associates who provide advice/counsel
1 Home Inspector (general inspection)
1 Specialty Inspector (termite, septic, buried oil tank, well, pool, HVAC, etc. inspection)
1 Radon Lab Technician to analyze test sample
3 Mortgage Lending Institution: Representative/Agent/Broker, Processor and Underwriter
1 Property Appraiser selected by Mortgage Lending Institution
2 Sellers’ Attorney with a legal assistant (includes secretarial, administrative and paralegal)
2 Buyers’ Attorney with a legal assistant (includes secretarial, administrative and paralegal)
1 Bank Attorney
2 Title Insurance Researcher/Clearance Officer plus representative at closing
1 Building Inspector to verify any C of O, open permit, expansion items (Tit le company performs a municipal search)
1 Tax Assessor to provide and explain “Property Card” (Tit le company researches during municipal search)
1 Tax Receiver to verify all property taxes have/have not been paid by sellers
2 Homeowners’ Insurance: Representative/Broker/Agent and Underwriter
But if everything is not in order or more complicated, you may have to add . . .
INVOLVED IN YOUR REAL ESTATE TRANSACTION?
# of People Type/Title/Profession of Participant
3 If property is rented: Tenants (A property may have more or less tenants)
2 If Homeowner/Condo Association: “Board member/Management company administrator: write letter of ‘Right of first refusal’”
5 If Co-Op: Co-Op Board members for interview process (A Co-Op board may have more or less members)
3 If other inspection conditions/upgrade items need to be evaluated/proposed: Additional “Trades/Professionals” (Plumber, Electrician, Architect, Roofer, Contractor, Painter, Basement Water Mitigation Contractor, Heating/Air Conditioning, Landscaping, Swimming Pool, Well Water Lab Technician, etc. . . .)
1 If require electrical additions/changes for C’s of O/Permits: NY State Electrical Inspector
1 If require “ceiling height variance” for basements: C’s of O/Permits: NY State Building Inspector/Code Enforcer
1 If Lending Institution requires new/updated survey: Surveyor
1 If property is “over-assessed:” Property Tax Assessment Reduction Specialist
1 If mortgage is for more than 80% financing: PMI Underwriter
1 If Sellers or Buyers purchase a Homeowners’ Warranty: Home Warranty Processor
1 If there are any Wood Destroying Insects: Exterminator
1 If Buried Oil Tank fails vacuum/soil tests: Buried Oil Tank Remediation company
1 If Buried Oil Tank has or needs “Oil Tank Insurance:” Buried Oil Tank Insurance company
1 If Mold is present in the property: Mold/Environmental Specialist
1 If Radon Gas valuation exceeds 4.0 pCi/L in lowest level: Radon Mitigation Installation company
1 If Well Water valuations exceeds legal limits: Well Water system company
1 If property has or is in need of a Water Treatment System: Water Treatment System installer/service provider
4 If Short Sale: Loss Mitigation representative, the “investor" (owner of loan), plus 2 Broker Price Opinion Agents
And still counting, because sometimes there are even more people involved . . .
We LOVE TO Celebrate Our Clients!
Five times a year, The Mark Seiden Real Estate Team hosts events for our past and current clients to thank them for their business and awesome referrals!
Our Events:
Spring: Shredding Event
Held at our office, we host a shredding event! Now you may safely dispose old or unwanted confidential documents. And, the best news: the shredding company will recycle 100% of the paper that is shredded. Recycling one ton of paper saves 17 mature trees! Light refreshments provided. Open to our clients and the public for a $20 donation. All donations will go to The Ossining Food Pantry.
Mid-Summer: Wine Tasting Event
Held on a spring evening, we host a wine tasting event at The Briarcliff Manor! Our clients sample some wonderful wines and delicious fare all while enjoying an adult evening!
For more information about our Client Appreciation Events, Go to:
homeman.net/client-events/
Late Summer: Movie Event
We host a private screening of a newly released movie! This event is FREE to our clients and is open to the public. Refreshments are available.
Winter: Thanksgiving Pie Event
To show our gratitude, we offer FREE pies to our clients. Last year, we gave away over 250 pies! We host a sweater/coat drive, (donated to local organizations) and serve as a drop off center for the U.S. Marines Toys for Tots Campaign!
Client Testimonial:
From start to finish Mark Seiden, Allyson Davidov and the entire team were professional, helpful and caring in what could have been a very stressful process for my wife and me. After getting a new job opportunity across the country we were in a tough situation of having to move before selling our home. Selling your home can be scary and overwhelming but the team was there to answer every question we had and took us through the entire process one step at a time. From staging, to photos, open houses, advertising, offers and closing they were able to guide and us and get us to the end point. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
Z. Gill, 47 Justamere Drive, Ossining
SEIDEN + SOLAR = SUSTAINABILITY!
How is the Team helping the world right now?
In the summer of 2011, we installed solar panels on the Briarcliff Manor real estate office building. We are pleased about being more environmentally conscious, aside from any possible future financial benefits.
Solar energy is SUSTAINABLE and RENEWABLE so we’ll never run out of it and that’s a GREAT thing! Here’s to creating a greener planet for our friends, neighbors, children and our children’s children!
MARK IN THE COMMUNITY
The Team lives in and is part of this community!
Mark values the importance of business community involvement, demonstrated by his activities and his commitment to local organizations. He participates in many local events such as village and town fairs. He demonstrates his commitment to his
community through sponsoring local little league teams, high school productions, education foundations and new initiatives such as the Ossining BELL Equity Fund. These two pages are just a sampling of his involvement!
MARK’S AWARDS AND MORE
Awards Galore!
Throughout the past 30+ years, Mark, with his Team, has received many, many awards recognizing his multi-million dollar sales. Additionally, he has received many awards recognizing his community service including
the prestigious Rotary Paul Harris Fellow award and the IFCA Executive Director’s Outstanding Community Service Award. Here is just a sampling of the recognition he’s received from the real estate industry and the local community!
MARK IN THE NEWS
Extra, Extra, Read All About Us!
Many prestigious publications—international, national and local—including The New York Times, the New York Post, Reuter’s News and Westchester Magazine, have reached out to Mark for his real estate expertise over the
years. He has been featured in numerous publications, TV, video spots and radio covering many topics from market conditions to foreclosure to general real estate trends. Here is just a sampling of the print press coverage!
MARK’S REPORTS
Buyers and sellers have vast differences in experiences and success buying and selling real estate. That is why we’ve created many reports, concerning many very specific areas of real estate, in order to help our diverse “know-how” of consumers. If you have a need
Go to: homeman.net/a-little-advice
or desire to learn more about “how something works” regarding real estate sales, we can help. Just tell us what your needs are . . . and we’ll provide you the report, and guidance, to help you understand the process.
Marketing Your Property
Marketing [mahr-kit-ing]
verb, present tense
Advertise or promote (something); To offer for sale
Marketing, Marketing Marketing!!
It’s been said by many that “Mark” put the “Mark” in Marketing! This is the TRUE key to selling your home for the highest price. Our brilliant marketing plan is unending, strategic and multi-faceted. Your home is promoted globally, nationally and locally so as not to miss any prospective buyer. We utilize the latest and greatest marketing innovations from 3D and interactive floor plans to single property websites. And you’ll never see a more comprehensive open house program . . . all to draw buyers to your door!
Targeted bi-monthly communications, compelling signage and exceptional
staging are just a few of the key factors in selling your home! Marketing is so much more than just putting your home on the Multiple Listing Service and sitting back waiting for buyers. It’s the proactive difference that sets us apart from the rest!
Mark's extraordinary market and marketing knowledge along with his professionalism are equalled by his sense of humor, all of which are vital in navigating the wonderful process that is selling a home. . . . As a consumer we vote with our selection of partners. Choosing the Mark Seiden Real Estate Team three times is the strongest recommendation I can give!!!
– Amy Genkins
How do most people first see houses that are for sale? Online! That makes great digital photography indispensable. The Team hires a professional photographer to shoot the property as seen through the “eyes of the buyers.” Since 94% of buyers preview houses online now, they are going to be looking at your house first through the camera’s lens.
Exterior photography highlights your yard and property.
Digital photography is used for every aspect of our Single Property Marketing:
Custom For Sale Signs
Custom Open House Signs
Custom Brochures
Single Property Websites
Interior photography highlights the space inside.
HOME STAGING
How do you prepare your home to sell quickly?
You stage it!! Did you know that it’s been documented that “staged homes spend 80% less time on the market compared to non-staged homes?” So, the Team brings in a professional Stager, at our expense, to help sell your home!!
Presenting Your Property to Buyers
is the process of merchandising your home in order to emphasize the best features of the space. The key is to keep spending to a minimum, while yielding the maximum return on the investment. Before and after Staging is shown in the sample at right.
Lists of what to clean and remove with determination.
The Team’s Stager provides a list of what is necessary to clean and what clutter to remove! Having furniture and personal belongings in each room is very important but too much causes a major distraction.
De-stink the property. Buyers want a house that is “move-in” ready. It’s important to get rid of the bad smells or it will sell for less than market value. The Team suggests ways to eliminate any “problematic smells” to get the house sold.
Provide suggestions & even provide “the trades” to creatively do minor repairs and maybe even update kitchens and baths. Updating those rooms with new paint, hardware, new flooring and light fixtures may not only sell the house faster, but at a substantially higher price. But the key is to do as much repairing/updating as possible while spending the least amount of money to complete the job, creating a higher profit. So, to get the highest price for your property: List it with the Team, Get it Staged and Get it SOLD!
How do you reach the entire world?
These days everything is online. The Mark Seiden Real Estate Team connects your property to the world by listing on hundreds of websites! Check out just some of the sites from which your property will be accessible.
Single Property Websites! The Mark Seiden Team offers 24 hour exposure and advanced marketing through single property websites featuring everything prospective buyers want. Your website will be accessible from
extension numbers on custom for sale signs and brochures. These “interactive” materials will have your property covered — and connected!
. . . SINGLE PROPERTY WEBSITES
PROMOTE YOUR PROPERTY LOCALLY
How do you reach the local community? Signs and more! The Mark Seiden Team offers 24 hour exposure and advanced marketing through custom for-sale signs and brochures . . . sending everyone to the sellers’ Single Property Website.
Custom Property Signs are placed in front of all for-sale properties.
Within 2 weeks of your property coming on the market, we'll promote it with a “COMING SOON!” for maximum exposure!
MARKETING TO THE MAX!
Community Flyer!
On a bi-monthly basis, we send a full-page, full-color marketing flyer to over 16,000 residential households — two entire zip codes — featuring our newest properties for sale as well as in-contract and sold properties. Our job is to PROMOTE your property! We saturate the local communities with important information about the current market conditions as well as local happenings.
Television Advertising
We’re on TV and people are watching! When thousands of viewers turn on News 12, CNN, Fox News and a host of other stations (on Cable and FIOS!), they’ll see our commercial. Of course, everyone has advice about buying and selling homes! But, is it good advice? These spots run throughout the day, 7 Days a week which helps
us cast the widest net to identify prospective buyers. But wait, there’s more! We also feature mobile ad messenger which hits thousand of eyes every week on one’s very own cellphone! All of our television and mobile advertising promotion provides a great marketing opportunity to sell your home! You can’t spell Marketing without Mark!
OPEN HOUSES LIKE NO OTHER . . .
What value does an Open House have?
It just may lead your buyer into your door! Besides letting you and a Team member decide the day and time your property will be viewed, it gives you the opportunity to set up your home in its best light. Open Houses let prospective
buyers see and feel your home which they may have discovered online. Finally, seeing the competition (other potential buyers) viewing the property at the same time may prompt one prospective buyer into making a purchase faster.
Statistics show that neighbors often know, or hear about, people who wish to buy in their own neighborhood. We mail out invitations to inform them that your home is for-sale and we are hosting an Open House to find a buyer! Come one, come all!
Our Mark Seiden Real Estate Team Welcome Table is always at our Open House events. In normal circumstances, depending on the time of year and weather, our Table may be inside or outside the home. Visitors will be toured through the property and receive an abundance of information about the home and neighborhood.
. . . WITH ADVERTISING LIKE NO OTHER
Open House Online Announcements Go to: https://vimeo.com/msretvirtualopenhouses
“Open House This Weekend!” Sign Rider
This is added to the for-sale sign on the Monday prior to the Open House weekend.
We distribute between 5-10 signs per Open House! Each sign has “Dry-Erase White Board” to write in the address and time of the Open House to make it easy for all buyers to find your home! 222 HOMEMAN DR 11:30-1:30
“Open House” Facebook Post This is a “boosted” (PAID) ad that goes to THOUSANDS of local buyers!
FEEDBACK ON SHOWINGS AND THE MARKET
Want to know what every visitor has to say about your property? Interested in how your property compares to other properties on the market?
The Mark Seiden Real Estate Team offers clients Advanced Showing Appointment and Feedback Services, Market Snapshots and Property Viewing Reports!
2. Compare Your Property To The Current Market In One Glance!
With our Market Snapshot system, you will always know who is your direct competition, how many of those properties went into contract and how many have sold, and at what price. You’ll always know what is happening in your market!
1. Web and Email/Text Access to Showings, Showing Confirmations and Feedback!
Receive Web access 24/7 of all of your showings, including the feedback from the buyers’ agents who showed your property! In addition to Web access, you have the option to receive phone calls, emails and/or text confirmations for all appointments, changes and cancellations.
3. Property Viewing Reports Sent To You Every Month!
Is the marketing working? You will never have to wonder if your property has maket exposure or is being viewed by those looking for a home. We analyze the data from all the major websites where your property is marketed to potential buyers, and we then send you a monthly report
Hi John, Here is your Market Snapshot for 222 HomeMan Drive. Residential
HOME OWNERS’ WARRANTY
Why should a seller take advantage of a homeowner’s warranty program?
Many sellers feel that once they accept an offer, “the deal is done.” However, that’s not necessarily the case. Next, the buyers will do “inspections” on the property. That is when the most “serious re-negotiations” begin to reduce your price!
The best way to limit any sort of “credits” after the inspection is to ensure that there is already a HOMEOWNERS’ WARRANTY in place. This will actually protect the buyers from large expenditures for repairs or replacement costs after they close! Therefore the buyers will have no reason to ask for large credits of the seller . . . , or to repair items that are covered by the warranty!
We’ve partnered with American Home Shield, a leading industry expert with over 40 years of experience, to provide this warranty opportunity. Once ordered, many systems will even be covered for you, the seller, in case
something breaks prior to the home being sold! And in addition, the buyers will be covered for an entire year, starting from the closing date of the transaction . . . no matter how long ago you signed up for the program!
You may choose from several coverage options depending on the number of systems that are in your home that you wish to cover. You have the convenience of 24/7/365 service requests and a network of over 10,000 independent, reputable home service professionals. And if something breaks down, you don’t pay for the actual repair or replacement cost for covered items . . . you only pay a small service fee!
And the best part is…there are no upfront costs. You pay for the warranty at closing!
The Homeowners’ Warranty . . . a proven way to protect your price!
THE FIRST THREE WEEKS . . . WHAT HAPPENS?
Ready to get started . . . ?
The first important step is to sign and complete our Listing Agreement / Disclosures
Before we even go on the “MLS”
e Bring in the Stager to assist you in getting the home ready for photos (optional)
e Research to ensure that all Certificates of Occupancy are in place and all “Open Permits” are closed out
e Procure survey, if available, to ensure there are no unforeseen “Easements or Encroachments” that may delay a closing
e If property is a short-sale, order and procure “Lien and Judgement Search” from Title company
e Schedule stager to provide “to do” list to prepare home for photos
e Schedule time to shoot the property photos
e Schedule time to create the floor-plan of the home
e Schedule 3D tour of the property (if applicable)
e Procure the “upgrades” of the property for marketing from the sellers
e Procure all the annual “utility costs” of the property from the sellers
e Review the showing procedures with the seller
e Procure the keys to the property from the seller, make copies and test all keys/locks
e Install lockbox
e Prepare property flyer and “upgrades list”
e Receive photos from photographer and label all photos for marketing
e Build “Single Property Website”
e Record “24 hour description of home” onto 800# phone system
e Prepare customized “For-Sale sign”
e Enter listing into the MLS system, but not go live–Preview information to ensure all is correct
e Determine date to “officially go onto market”
e Send all marketing materials to sellers (MLS and single property website) for sellers’ approval
e Revise any/all changes to the marketing making ready to go live
First Week on the “MLS”
Go live on the MLS
e Go live with the “Single Property Website”
e Put up “For-Sale” yard sign
e Syndicate listing to real estate websites
e Schedule first “Public Open House” for following weekend
e Post and boost “New Listing” to Facebook
e Input property information onto back-side of master property flyer for cross-marketing to other Mark Seiden Real Estate Team properties
e Analyze all showing feedback and procure any missing feedback from agents that showed the property
e Call ALL agents who provided any feedback requesting information about the property to discuss buyers’ interest and/or an offer
IT’S A LOT MORE THAN “PUTTING IT ON MLS!”
Second Week
e
Attach “Open House this Weekend” “Star Burst” onto “For-Sale” yard sign
e Create and send out a minimum of 100 “Public Open House” invitations to neighbors
e Invite buyers and agents to upcoming Public Open House
e Post upcoming Open House onto the MLS, Facebook, Zillow and many other websites
e Hold Public Open House at end of week – second weekend on the market
Third Week
e Provide results of first Public Open House
e Discuss schedule to provide next Public Open House
e Call sellers to discuss activity: number of appointments and showings of the property
e Place onto monthly mailing brochure as a “featured property” — mailed to over 16,000 addresses
Ongoing activities
e Show property to potential buyers
e Follow-up on Internet leads
e Examine market conditions
e Monitor comparable properties for sale
e Check for foreclosures and short sales in market
e Continue to schedule “Public Open Houses” every two to three weeks
e Adjust price of property as necessary based on market feedback
e Invite buyers and agents to upcoming Public Open Houses
e Begin agent to agent marketing efforts
e Monitor appointments that were made to show the property
e Analyze all showing feedback and procure any missing feedback from agents that showed the property
e Call ALL agents who provide any feedback requesting information about the property to discuss buyers’ interest and/or an offer
e Analyze all showing feedback and procure any missing feedback from agents that showed the property
e Call ALL agents who provide any feedback requesting information about the property to discuss buyers’ interest and/or an offer
e Post upcoming Public Open House onto the MLS, Facebook, Zillow and many other websites
e Analyze all showing feedback and procure any missing feedback from agents that showed the property
e Call ALL agents who provide any feedback requesting information about the property to discuss buyers’ interest and/or an offer
This is a very busy time for you and our Team. So, sign-up and let’s get going!
Remarkable Properties Distinctive,
Exceptional and Luxury Homes
Remarkable [ri-mahr-kuh-buh l]
adjective Worthy of notice or attention; striking
Marketing Luxury Properties is what we do!! We market Estates, Hudson-River-View Properties, Horse Properties, Antique and Historic Homes, New-Construction-Estate Homes, Penthouses and more, like no other Brokerage in Westchester County! The Mark Seiden Team positions a home to move quickly at the highest price the market will bear. Each seller is provided a unique and unparalleled marketing program tailored specifically for each seller’s needs. That is our promise! And we’ll deliver with excellence!
Mark—
We can’t believe what a great job you did on marketing and selling our beautiful home in Briarcliff Manor for over $1.2M. Your whole marketing program was so totally unique and “over the top” that the offers literally began pouring in immediately in that first week after we listed. We were so excited that your unique marketing program and skillful negotiations even resulted in a bidding war that enabled us to sell our home at an above market price that was $20,000 more than our list price! Having the signed sales contract within 3 weeks of listing the house was just plain unbelievable. We recommend you to all of our friends and acquaintances who are selling homes in your area. Keep up the great work.
—Tom and Nancy Wozniak
Remarkable Marketing
Welcome to the Luxury Division of the Mark Seiden Real Estate Team!
We’ve assembled a discerning team of professionals to provide:
e Staging
e High definition photography
e 3D photography
e Aerial photography
e Night and twilight photography
e High-end-glossy brochures
e Custom-designed, luxury Single Property Websites
e Customized For-Sale signs
Every Mark Seiden Real Estate Team’s property-listing is in a class of its own. Our marketing plan positions our properties, in a heightened competitive environment, to maximize exposure and to attain the highest price for the sellers.
The Mark Seiden Real Estate Team is a full-service team, representing sellers, buyers, renters, landlords and developers of luxury properties. Our Team of agents offers exceptional insight into the vast areas of the business, and provides specialized attention to buying or selling high-end real estate. With an unequaled ability to be discreet, our clients also enjoy a company that is small and flexible to meet the sellers’ ever-changing marketing needs.
Remarkable Promotion
3D Floor Plans
See each floor in 3D and take a virtual tour through the entire
Floor Plans
Get a new perspective by being able to look at a room’s photo while looking at that same room on the floor plan . . . at the same time.
Aerial Photography
From up above, see dramatic, compelling views of the home’s exterior . . . go right up to the front door too.
Gallery
See everything at once! Read about the property, download a brochure, see and print floor plans and look through photos of every room.
Remarkable Aerial Photography and Brochures
A picture is worth a thousand words or perhaps multiple thousands of dollars in a seller’s pocket. With a more competitive real estate market and a greater sophistication in home search methods, it’s absolutely critical to differentiate a luxury property. Using flying cameras, drone photographers create dramatic, compelling shots to show far-reaching shots of landscapes, river vistas and seamless fly-arounds of spectacular home exteriors with the unique ability to highlight many property features. They are flying down onto properties from 1,000 feet in the air, highlighting the details of a large, expansive property in impressive form.
Your special property requires a unique, expert approach in order to reach and appeal to those most qualified to purchase a luxury property. And that is where our luxury home brochure comes in. The brochure will serve as a key piece in our comprehensive marketing strategy designed to sell your home quickly and for the highest price possible. The brochure, produced with many beautiful full color photos and elegant design, will masterfully showcase your property.
222 Homeman Drive ~ Briarcliff Manor
Shadow Brook
Remarkable Key Resources
No matter what information a buyer needs, we have it! Download the property’s survey or floor plan. Need information about the school district or Metro North? A buyer will get it here! Still have questions? A buyer completes our “Contact Us” form and we immediately get right back to them!
222 Homeman Drive ~ Briarcliff Manor
Shadow Brook
Remarkable 3D Virtual Tour !
DOES ALL THIS STUFF REALLY WORK?
Just read what the seller of 120 Aspinwall Road has to say about that!
✹ Sotheby’s International Realty listed and failed to sell in 91 days
✹ Douglas Elliman Real Estate listed and failed to sell in 182 days
✹ Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage listed and failed to sell in 89 days
✹ Houlihan Lawrence listed and failed to sell in 261 days
✹ Century 21 Haviland listed and failed to sell in 757 days
✹ Keller Williams listed and failed to sell in 616 days
Mark Seiden Real Estate Team SOLD , IN A BIDDING WAR, AT LIST PRICE . . . IN CONTRACT . . . IN JUST 53 DAYS!
So, do you really, really still think it is about the company you choose . . . and not the agent?
I cannot rave more about the exceptional services I received from Mark Seiden and his team. My property had been listed for years and with multiple agents throughout Westchester — yet not one was able to deliver. Mark assured me that if I left the sale of my property in his capable hands he would sell it quickly. Mark understands the real estate business — and together with his business savvy, his honest and open communications, his extraordinary negotiation skills and his hard work ethic, he has all the ingredients of a great Realtor. Mark’s team is also a great group of professionals who are extremely competent, approachable and always very responsive. Although I knew Mark and his team must be juggling many other clients, I always felt they were dedicated to me. Mark and his team were always there for me. I would highly recommend Mark Seiden to anyone looking to sell or buy a property. Mark is unsurpassed in the real estate industry. Mark is the epitome of what a premiere service provider should be. After having sales fall through and being disappointed for years, I am glad I finally found Mark Seiden. He lived up to his promises and within 4 weeks I had several offers, within less than 7 weeks I was in contract, and within 9 weeks my property was sold.
— John Caroli,
formerly of Briarcliff Manor
LISTEN TO WHAT PEOPLE HAVE TO SAY ONLINE
Jack Castaneda — 5 ★
We have worked with the Mark Seiden Real Estate Team since 2001, first as a purchaser of our home in Briarcliff Manor and then as a seller this year. Both times, Mark Seiden’s team came through with flying colors. As buyers, he found us the perfect house in a great neighborhood with an excellent school system for our family while quickly selling our townhouse in Dobbs Ferry. Thanks to Mark’s knowledge and expertise, the closing and move went through smoothly without any problems. When it came time to sell my house in Briarcliff Manor this year, we knew he was the Realtor for us. If you are buying or selling any real estate in Westchester County, this is the best company in New York.
Jack and Janet Castaneda, November 6
Michael Turco 5 ★
Michael Turco — 5 ★
After 3 frustrating years of attempting to sell our home with other agencies, we hired Mark and his team and had an accepted offer within 4 weeks. We were thrilled with the results Mark and Allyson got. Our home sold quickly and we got significantly more than any of the offers we had gotten in the past. Mark’s team was exceptionally professional and helped us navigate a difficult real estate market.
Trust Mark and his team to work quickly, getting you top value on your home with state-of-the-art marketing systems, strategies and techniques. Mark is also a shortsale and distressed property expert.
szavo54 reviewed Mark Seiden Helped me sell a home
Mark and the team sold our house and helped us buy our new home. Mark and the team really worked hard and it shows in the quality of work that was performed. Dedication and experience no matter the price of the home. We are the perfect example and I am always telling people our story and experience using the Mark Seiden team.
Mark and the team sold our house and helped us buy our new home. Mark and the team really worked hard and it shows in the quality of work that was performed. Dedication and experience no matter the price of the home. We are the perfect example and I am always telling people our story and experience using
We were sellers and words cannot describe the incredible experience my family had with Mark Seiden and his entire group of professionals. There aren’t enough adjectives in the dictionary. From start to finish it’s nothing but the best service throughout your purchase or sale. It starts with a friendly face and a genuine desire to help; honesty & integrity; local knowledge and how to prepare your home for sale. The process is simple and if you follow it, you will sell your home quickly and at the top of the market. And if you’re a buyer, he will negotiate the best price and terms to save money. The follow up attention is out of this world and is second to none, and the team as a whole, is excellent! I spent 36 years in the corporate world and haven’t seen this type of dedication from Fortune 500 companies and other Blue Ribbon firms. There are Realtors® and then there is Mark Seiden, the “Gold Standard” in the industry. The choice is yours, we couldn’t be happier!
A LITTLE HUMOR—YOUR HOUSE AS SEEN . . .
Have you ever wondered what other people think when they see your property? Your home is a very special place full of memories and your own family traditions. The truth is, not everyone will feel quite the same way about the property you are selling. Take a look at how some may view your property
Price Smart/Sell Smart
Price [prahys]
verb, present tense
To decide the amount required as payment
Sell [sel]
verb, present tense
Transfer (goods) to another in exchange for money
Smart [smahrt] adjective
Shrewd or sharp, as a person in dealing with others or as in business dealings
We are happy and pleased with the entire process of selling our home. Mark Seiden, Allyson, Lee and the entire staff did an excellent job in getting our house sold and for the most money. Selling your home can be an overwhelming task, but it was very simple. The Mark Seiden Real Estate Team did all the work, besides packing. We went to Florida, and they sold our home! Thanks again!
– Elizabeth and David Miranda
We have known Mark Seiden for over 16 years and have worked with him on over 7 real estate transactions. We worked with other real estate agents prior but concluded that Mark had the most experience and best understanding of the Westchester real estate market to meet our needs. Familiarity with the luxury home market was extremely important, as this is a special niche, which required a strong marketing skill set. Our homes ranged in price from $400,000 to over $1,000,000. Each transaction involved selling a home and each time his team found buyers in a reasonable timeframe. Mark executed marketing strategies that go well beyond what other agents provide. Our area is saturated with claims of high-end real estate agents and brokers offering a lot of hype and “smoke and mirrors.” Mark has over 20 years of experience, setting him apart from all the other agents and brokers in our area. One thing we learned from buying and selling with Mark is how critical strong negotiation skills are in order to close a deal. We have heard horror stories from our friends and relatives on how sales and purchases fell apart because of an agent’s weak negotiation skills. We have never lost a deal or missed an opportunity and we know this is a result of Mark’s strong negotiation skills.
You can ask any of our relatives and friends and they will tell you that we would never consider another broker!
—Joanne and Don DelleBovi
INTELLIGENT PRICING AND TIMING
What are the secrets to pricing a property?
ePricing a home for sale is as much art as science, but there are a few truisms that never change. Fair market value attracts buyers, overpricing never does.
The first two weeks of marketing are crucial.
If you don’t get many showings or offers, the home is probably overpriced and it’s not comparing well to the competition. Since you can’t change the location, you’ll either have to improve the home’s condition or adjust the price.
Showing feedback will track the buyers’ reaction to your home on the market. The market can always change its mind and give your home another chance, but by then you’ve added “days-on-themarket” and perhaps allowed a stigma to cloud your home’s value.
The market never lies, but it can, and does, change its mind.
Your best chance of selling your home is in the first two weeks of marketing. Your home is fresh and exciting to buyers and to their agents.
With strategic and fierce marketing, and a description in the MLS, your home will get the greatest flurry of attention and interest in the first two weeks.
Intelligent pricing isn’t about pricing the property high — it’s about getting your home sold quickly at the highest price the market will bear!!
THE VALUE OF YOUR HOME
In a neighborhood of similar homes, why is one worth more than another?
That’s a question that’s befuddled buyers and sellers for ages, but the answer is simple. Every home is different. When a home is sold, a willing seller and a willing buyer have just announced to the world the value of that home. From there, other similar homes are benchmarked, but other factors come into play. The most important are:
Condition:
Location: The closer a home is to jobs, parks, transportation, schools and community services, the more desirable it is.
Size: Square footage impacts home values because they’re built using more materials. Larger lot sizes may mean more privacy.
Number of bedrooms and baths: Over time, median homes have grown larger. Decades ago, household members shared bedrooms and baths without complaint. But today, families want more privacy. The median home purchased today is a three-bedroom, two-bath home.
Features and finishes: Features such as outdoor kitchens and spa baths make a home more luxurious. A home finished with hardwood floors and granite countertops is going to sell for more than a home with carpet and laminate countertops.
The closer in age a home is to new construction, the more it will retain its value. It’s perceived as more modern, up to date, and perhaps safer. Homes that are not updated or in poor repair sell for less. It’s a good idea for homeowners to keep their homes as updated and in top repair as possible.
Curb appeal: From the street, the home looks clean, fresh and inviting. Crisp landscaping with flowers won’t change the size or location, but it certainly adds charm.
When two homes are identical in the same neighborhood, a higher price may come down to something as simple as views, or paint colors or the overall taste of the homeowner.
Valuing a home will never be an exact science, but if you bought wisely, kept your home updated and in good repair, you should recoup most, if not all, of your investment.
COMPARABLE MARKET ANALYSIS
What is a CMA? No two homes are identical, which is why choosing a sales price or offer price for a home can be challenging. That’s where the comparable market analysis, or CMA, can be useful.
The CMA is a side-by-side comparison of homes for sale and homes that have recently sold in the same neighborhood and price range. This information is further sorted by data fields such as single-family or condo, number of bedrooms, number of baths, school districts and many other factors. Its purpose is to show fair market value, based on what other buyers and sellers have determined through past sales, pending sales and homes recently put on the market.
How accurate are CMAs? The CMA is a here-and-now snapshot of the market, based on the most recent data available, but it can instantly be rendered obsolete by a new listing, or a change of status in a home with the same criteria. Why? The market is constantly changing due to new listings, pending sales, closed sales, price reductions and expired listings.
CMAs will vary widely, depending on the knowledge and skill of the person inputting the search parameters to the software as well as the number and type of data fields that are chosen. That means some features may not be included.
As informative as the CMA is, it should only be used as a tool and should not substitute for the Mark Seiden Real Estate Team’s professional knowledge and advice.
How is the CMA created? CMAs are generated by a computer program supplied by a real estate agent’s office using the Multiple Listing Service (MLS). The MLS is available to licensed members only, including brokers, salespeople and appraisers, who pay dues to gain access to the service’s public and proprietary data, including tax roll information, sold transactions and listings input by all cooperating MLS members.
Listing agents generate CMAs for their sellers, and buyers’ agents create them for their buyers so both sides know what current market conditions are for the homes they’re interested in comparing.
How and why would CMAs Vary?
CMA results may vary even between identical homes. One property may simply offer better drive-up appeal or is in better condition than the other, and that will be reflected in the sales price.
Lastly, buyer and seller motivation can’t be quantified. You don’t know why sellers agreed to take less for their home or why a buyer paid more for another home. Family problems, corporate relocations and other reasons all play a role. What you can learn from the CMA is how long the home took to sell. If it was quick, the seller was highly motivated. If it didn’t, it was probably overpriced.
ONLINE HOME VALUES AND YOUR HOME
Have you ever checked your property value online?
Plenty of sellers have visited online home valuation sites such as Zillow, eAppraisal, and others only to be shocked at the value of their homes.
Online Valuations
Estimating a home’s market value is far from an exact science. What these sites attempt to do is provide greater transparency to homebuyers and sellers by making data derived from public records more . . . public. They publish what you paid for your home and how much you pay in taxes. Many have satellite views so accurate they can spot your cat laying on the front porch.
How do they do it? Home valuation sites contract with major title companies to obtain county tax roll data. All properties are registered with the county for property taxing purposes. They also find ways to become members of local Multiple Listing Services, which are either subsidiaries of real estate associations or owned by local real estate brokers. That way, they have access to listing data.
Most sellers are pleased when the values appear higher than they expected, but many online valuations come in far lower.
Between tax roll data and listing data, home valuation sites apply their own secret sauce, or algorithm to come up with “Zestimates” or approximate values of what homes are worth.
Sometimes the results are spot on, but they can also be terribly inaccurate. First, transaction data has to be recorded with the county, which could take weeks. But, what alters the algorithm most is that properties not currently on the market are also included in the data. The algorithms can’t possibly show whether or not a home has been updated, how well it’s maintained or esoteric values such as curb appeal and views.
For that reason, online valuations should be used only as one of many tools to estimate a home’s value.
Ask the Mark Seiden Real Estate Team for their expert analysis! Please take a look at the comparative market analysis, or CMA, we will provide for you. There you will find the most recent listings and sold comparables, accurate to within hours or a few days at most.
ESTIMATED SELLER’S NET PROCEEDS
Date: __________________
Name(s):
Less Selling Expenses . . . Commission (Seller representation):
Commission (Seller-paid Buyer representation):
Seller’s Concession paid by seller
NY State Transfer Tax
City ( ____________________ ) Transfer Tax
Attorney Fee (estimated as they vary):
Title Pick-up Fee (if there is a mortgage to pay off)
Additional Services
Services [sur-vis is]
noun, plural
The action of helping or doing work for someone
My wife had just recently retired and we needed to sell our home in Briarcliff Manor. We had made lists of all the things we needed to get done before we could even list our home. Stressful times. The realtors we spoke with told us to contact them when we were ready to sell. We finally spoke with Allyson Davidov from Mark Seiden’s team. Joy! She helped us organize all the things we needed to do, hooked us up with a great contractor to fix up all those things that needed to be done to a house that had been well lived in for 19 years, suggested a stager who was invaluable in the early stages of decluttering ; and, then later in the color decisions associated with updating bathrooms, bedrooms, etc. and finally in the actual staging of the house. The results were stunning. We ended up with a beautiful home ready to sell. Mark helped by cleaning up the paperwork on our property, getting the C’s of O finalized so that we could list our property properly. As we got closer to listing, they hired a professional artist to take lots of photos of our home that they posted on their website. We sat down together and looked at active listings in the area to determine the right price. Allyson actually had us price the house higher than we would have priced it. Once the property was listed, we got immediate viewings. We got 3 offers in the first few days and the first family that saw our house actually ended up buying it. Mark’s Team didn’t stop there. Amy Seiden then helped us through the various stages of closing, suggested a great local attorney and kept us informed throughout the final stressful stage. If I were going to buy or sell a house in Westchester County, NY, I would use Mark Seiden’s team again, no questions. They know their stuff, they’re very professional, and helped minimize the stress and work we had to do during the whole getting ready, selling and closing phases.
– Harry Pugh
Mark Seiden helped me sell my house in a time in the market that other companies told me I would never sell it! From start to finish, his company was very professional and attentive to my needs. We completed a short sale in about 4 months and also got a price that I never thought we could get.
– Andy Barresi
OUR PREFERRED SERVICE PROVIDER PROGRAM
People are always asking us for recommendations when they need a resource for maintaining their homes, caring for their families or for other needs that have nothing to do with houses at all. That’s because we’ve put together our own trusted family of service providers that we depend on for our business as well as our personal lives. Until recently, we’ve kept our list of trusted people a closely guarded secret, restricting access to family, friends and our clients. But now, we’re here to serve you any time of the day or night.
We have professionals in over 100 categories who have earned the trust and respect of many of our clients as well as our team. There is everything from painters, contractors and home care specialists to doctors, lawyers, car detailers, dog walkers, trainers, architects and much more. Or, call our office at (914) 762-2200. We’ll be happy to help you! You’ll see that finding a trusted and reliable resource has never been easier.
BUSINESS & CONSUMER CREDIT EXPERTS
Your Credit Score
We live in a credit driven world. Your credit score has become more than just a number, determining your ability to purchase your dream home, restructure your finances, and even land a new job. Here is a list of Do’s and Dont’s to keep your score healthy and fresh:
REGULARLY MONITOR YOUR CREDIT
DO
DO DO DO
Checking your credit several times a year can protect you from fraud and help you eliminate mistakes before they hurt you. For free reports, visit: www.annualcreditreport.com
STAY CURRENT ON YOUR ACCOUNTS
Keeping up with your bills and making payments on time is the most important step in maintaining good credit.
KEEP OLD ACCOUNTS OPEN
Credit history plays a substantial role in your score (see graph). Use old cards to buy gas or other minor expenses to keep them active.
ESTABLISH VARIOUS TYPES OF CREDIT
When it comes to having a good score, one account won’t cut it. Try to diversify with things like auto loans, credit cards, mortgages, and other credit accounts.
BITE OFF MORE THAN YOU CAN CHEW Applying for too much credit in a short cantly.fisigni score your hurt can time Know when to hit the brakes.
MAX OUT YOUR CARDS
Holding high balances on credit accounts will bring down your score. Try keeping your balance below 30% of your limit whenever possible.
SIGN YOUR CREDIT CARDS
If you lose your credit card and you have signed the back, it instantly gives someone the means to wreak havoc on your credit report. Instead, write “See Photo ID” on the back. Most importantly, don’t neglect bad credit. At some point in your life you are going to depend on your credit score to improve your standard of living. If you are suffering from poor credit, take action before it’s too late.
SHORT-SELL YOUR HOME
Do you think the stress of missing mortgage payments is only affecting you? When a family finds itself in a difficult financial situation, eveyone feels it!
More and more people are experiencing heightened levels of stress and feeling out of control possibly due to one or more of the following:
• Loss of job
• Disability
• Reduced income
• Business failure
• Damage to property
• Death of a spouse
• Mandatory
• Divorce
• Medical bills
• Military service
• Tax increase
• Too much debt
• Incarceration
• Death of a job relocation family member
• Severe illness
• Mortgage adjustment
• Insurance increase
• Inheritance
• Separation
• Payment increase
But, if you could sell the property and move where it will cost you substantially less each month, you could lessen or eliminate your financial stress! However, you know your house isn’t worth what you owe on it. So you think you can’t sell it, right? That is not true! The Mark Seiden Real Estate Team can sell your house, for less than you owe, as a short sale!*
Our Team will get the bank to allow you to sell your house for less than you owe, and you pay little or NO commissions, much discounted attorney fees and NO transfer tax.*
Start today to get qualified, get sold & get control of your life again!
* For those who qualify. A residual “deficiency judgment” balance and/or tax implication may or may not apply after closing. Consult with your accountant or attorney. Or call for details.
IT’S YOUR LIFE, ES SU VIDA
El Sueño Americano Real Estate was founded to help bring the American Dream home for people in the Hispanic community. Our mission was to create an innovative real estate company that offers the highest level of customer service possible while catering specifically to the needs and concerns of Westchester’s growing number of Hispanic families. From our bilingual agents to our wide variety of industry contacts and services, we work on common ground with you and your family so you are comfortable with your real estate experience. Helping you live the American Dream.
A Unique Company
Our goal was to create a one-of-a-kind company. One that focused its service around the individual values and concerns of the Hispanic community. As a result, we’ve assembled an extremely diverse and specialized team of bilingual professionals who pride themselves on being in tune with the needs our clientele.
Lo ayudaremos a vivir el sueño americano.
El Sueño Americano Real Estate se fundó para ayudar a convertir en realidad el sueño americano de las familias hispanas. Nuestra misión era crear una inmobiliaria innovadora que ofreciera el más alto nivel posible de atención al cliente al mismo tiempo que atendiera las necesidades e inquietudes del creciente número de familias hispanas. Desde nuestros agentes bilingües a nuestra amplia gama de contactos y servicios, trabajamos junto con usted y su familia para que usted se sienta cómodo con su experiencia en el campo de los bienes raíces.
Una compañía única en su género
Nuestra meta era crear una compañía única en su género, una compañía cuyos servicios giraran en torno a los valores individuales y los intereses de la comunidad hispana. Como resultado, hemos creado un diverso equipo especializado de profesionales bilingües que se enorgullecen en estar en contacto con las necesidades de nuestra clientela.
