All Forum Posts by: Mike Grudzien

Depending on how low the score and what you intend to do with the equity, it might be worth considering an FHA cash out refi to pay down debt at closing, solving the DTI issue in the process. FHA often has a more generous tolerance for credit scores and DTI than a HELOC might. Obviously, you will want to consider carefully whether you want to roll your consumer debt into your home, whether the new payment is beneficial, and whether you are able to not incur further consumer debt after the refi is complete.

Hello Emma, 

Our pre-listing process really depends on the current condition of the home, price point, and curb appeal importance to "buyer journey" which is the path buyers will make to the property from whichever direction. General house cleaning is a no-brainer, but other items are going to depend on seller's pocketbook and our prioritization of these prep items to the overall sale probability in the first 14 days of the listing. 

Here is a list of things we really focus on (in no particular order):

1. Moss off the roof 

2. Powerwashing walkways, driveways, and siding

3. Decluttering inside/outside

4. Sharp lines, weed removal, pop of colorful annuals and fresh mulch in landscaping

5. Painted front door with new hardware

6. Removal of dog poop

7. Organized and good smelling garage

8. Clean and fresh carpets/flooring/and/or replacement if needed

9. Depersonalization of home and/or staging if needed (depending on price point)

10. Safety issues and Apprasial conditions (CO/Smoke detectors, straps on water heaters)

11. Clean windows (tracks, interior, exterior, caulk flashing)

12. Chimney sweep 

13. Crawlspace & attic inspection (vapor barrier, vent screens, bathroom exhaust, leaks)

14. GFCI's within 6ft of any water source 

15. "Smellavision" - Literally try to combat any smells which will be deterrent 

16. Clean oven, appliances, and organized pantry

17. Clean closets, laundry room, and shoe organization

18. Remove all cowebs and dust, run HEPA filters

19. Replace batteries in CO/Smoke if necessary 

20. Paint walls and/or fill in holes/damage/scuffs/wipe down all trim

We carry anywhere between 10-18 listings at a time and sell $35-$50M in real estate in Lane County per year. The process as I said is very client specific and timeline sensitive. 

Happy to meet up for lunch and discuss further. Shoot me a message!