Erik made some good points below. I feel that it depends on the size of your backyard. If it takes up the majority of your yard, and it is in really bad shape, I would remove it and return the space to a grassy lawn as most buyers want to have some yard space. If you have a larger yard and the pool only takes up a section of the rear yard, then it could be beneficial to refurbish it. Pools are sometimes a turn off for families with very young children as they fear the child could fall in the pool and drown. But with families without children or with older children...pools can be a huge plus as it provides exercise and entertainment for everyone. If you keep it, it needs to be in tip top shape and have sparkling clear water. Landscaping is also important as to nicely accent the pool. I have sold many homes with pools and they can attract buyers if you have it looking fabulous and inviting. Keep that in mind and I hope this advice helps you make a more informed decision.
An ugly, unkept pool can definitely keep you from selling in the current market as people just do not want to have to deal with that at all. You would probaby lose more than twice than what you would spend to either refurbish it or demolish and and return the lawn to grass. Just don't expect to get a good sales price if you leave it in bad shape.... more
There is no standard commission rate; and all commission rates and percentages are negotiable. Contact a few agents in your area that can help you list and market your home.... more
While you can you would be putting yourself in a very bad leagl postion as the buyer will likely sue you for specific performance as well as all of their expenses. Your own listing agnet and their company could also sue you for the commission.
You can speak with an attorney, but my advice is stop procrastinating, hire a moving company and start emptying your home. You knew you this was going to happen when you put your home on the market, and really have no excuse for not honoring your word to your agent and the buyer.
If you're feeling overwhelmed by the moving process hire proffesionals to help you.... more
Hi Violet - the correct answer is, all real estate commissions are negotiable. I know that probably doesn't help you, but that is the answer. Typically the seller pays the real estate commission to their agent and the seller's agent offers a portion of that commission to the buyers' agent. Buyers are not, in any way, responsible to pay a commission unless they have some sort of separate agreement with their agent to do so but that is very rare. If you are a buyer, you should have no worries about commission. If you are thinking of selling your home, however, my recommendation would be to interview two or three real estate agents and go over everything with them, find one with whom you feel comfortable and confident and hire them to help you. Your biggest concern should not be commission but, instead, getting the dollars you need to accomplish your goal in selling the home.
Good Luck!... more
This is a legal question and should be dicussed with an attorney. Your sale contract may have language in it giving you specific rights. I'm very sorry to hear that you're in this situation. I don't know all the details, but both your agent and the buyers agent (assuming their not the same) appear not have done a very good job in terms of communication. You should not have moved out without knowing the buyer had final loan approval.
I hope things resolve themselves and the buyer is able to close.... more
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I know of a lady who may be interested. You may want to put your home on Craig's list or whatever kind of free listings they have in Oklahoma. There are a lot of buyers that are interested and looking everywhere. I know of a lady who also matches sellers and buyers. I can get you in contact with her. Please contact me at angie3m@yahoo.com. I could see what I could do for you.... more
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