Meredith Kronenberg

Start with your county property appraiser or auditor's website to review ownership history and any recorded details about the original construction. Next, check the building department for permit records, which often list the builder or contractor who constructed the home. Your original deed, closing documents, or title insurance policy may also reference the builder by name. If those don't turn anything up, a local title company or the city building department can usually help track down this information for you.

Most real estate contracts include built-in " kill switches,aEUR? meaning there are specific deadlines and contingencies that must be met by certain dates. Whether a contract can be canceled depends entirely on the terms of the contract you signed and where you are in the timeline. If all contingencies have been satisfied and the contract is active, you generally cannot cancel it unilaterally. There are important factors and exceptions to consideraEUR"such as whether the buyer has submitted earnest money or missed a required deadline. Because every contract is different, it's strongly recommended that you have a real estate attorney review your contract and provide legal guidance. As Realtors, we are not permitted to give legal advice, but an attorney can clearly explain your options and risks.

It depends on the specific terms of the buyer agreement you signed. Many of these contracts include limits such as a set time frame, defined geographic area, and sometimes a termination clause. Some agreements also only apply to properties that were directly introduced to you by that agent. The best next step is to review your agreement and have an open, honest conversation with your agent. In many situations, contracts can be amended or ended by mutual agreement. If this involves a personal relationship or a unique opportunity, most agents are open to discussing options and working toward a solution that feels fair to everyone involved.

A home inspection gives you a clearer picture of the property before you fully commit. An inspector can uncover issues that aren't obvious during a showing, like roof concerns, electrical or plumbing problems, HVAC issues, or safety items. Even in well-maintained or newer homes, inspections often reveal maintenance needs or future repairs that are helpful to know upfront. An inspection also gives you options. Depending on what's found, you may be able to negotiate repairs, request credits, or simply move forward with peace of mind knowing exactly what you're buying. There are rare situations where buyers choose to waive an inspection to strengthen an offer, but that comes with added risk. If you're considering that route, it's important to understand what you're giving up and whether it truly makes sense for your situation. Bottom line: a home inspection is one of the best tools you have to protect yourself and make an informed decision.

The key to getting the most money for your home starts before it ever hits the market. Preparation is everything. Begin by decluttering and doing a thorough deep cleanaEUR"inside and out. Simple steps like pressure washing, fresh landscaping, and a tidy entryway go a long way in creating a strong first impression. Take care of minor repairs ahead of time and aim for a neutral, move-in-ready look so buyers can easily picture themselves living there. Most importantly, hire a knowledgeable local REALTOR to guide you through the process. A local expert can help you prioritize what matters most based on what buyers in your specific market are looking for, so your home is positioned to sell quickly and for top dollar.