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Avoid These 9 Mistakes When Downsizing to a Smaller Home in Arizona

How to Sell the Place You Call Home

Are you an “Empty Nester” who needs a home for the future? Is it time to downsize or to move into another home more suitable for your glorious retirement years? Like thousands of homesellers, you may be discovering that after years of non-stop child traffic in and out of your doors, toys on the floor, music floating throughout, suddenly you can hear a pin drop over the quiet hum of the refrigerator. Your rooms are filled with pictures and memories of this wonderful time in your life, but there are many empty rooms gathering dust now that your children have moved on. The freer years ahead are exciting ones to look forward to, and it may be time for you to move as well. If you find yourself in this situation, you’re in vast and good company. And what that means is that there are many wonderful opportunities for you to create this new chapter in your life . . . if you know what it takes to get the most out of the equity you’ve built up in your current home To help you understand the issues involved in making such a move, and how to avoid the most common and costly mistakes most Empty Nesters make, we’ve prepared this special report to help you identify and plan for the move ahead.


“The last thing you need are unbudgeted financial obligations cropping up hours before you take possession of your new home.”


Selling your home is one of the most important steps in your life. This 9 step system will give you the tools you need to maximize your profits, maintain control, and reduce the stress that comes with the homeselling process:

  1. Know why you’re selling, and keep it to yourself. The reasons behind your decision to sell affect everything from setting a price to deciding how much time and money to invest in getting your home ready for sale. What’s more important to you: the money you walk away with, the length of time your property is on the market or both. Different goals will dictate different strategies.  However, don’t reveal your motivation to anyone else or they may use it against you at the negotiating table. When asked, simply say that your housing needs have changed.
  2. Do your homework before setting a price. Settling on an offering price shouldn’t be done lightly. Once you’ve set your price, you’ve told buyers the absolute maximum they have to pay for your home, but pricing too high is as dangerous as pricing too low. Remember that the average buyer is looking at 15-20 homes at the same time they are considering yours. This means that they have a basis for comparison, and if your home doesn’t compare favorably with others in the price range you’ve set, you won’t be taken seriously by prospects or agents. As a result, your home may sit on the market for a long time and, knowing this, new buyers will think there must be something wrong with your home.
  3. Find Out What Other Homes are Selling For. (In fact, your agent should do this for you). Find out what comparable homes in your own and similar neighborhoods have sold for in the past 6-12 months, and research what current homes are listed for. That’s certainly how prospective buyers will assess the worth of your home.
  4. Find a “good” real estate agent to represent your needs. Nearly three-quarters of homeowners claim that they wouldn’t use the same realtor who sold their last home. Dissatisfaction boils down to poor communication which results in not enough feedback, lower pricing and strained relations.
  5. Maximize your home’s sales potential.  Each year, corporate North America spends billions on product and packaging design. Appearance is critical, and it would be foolish to ignore this when selling your home.  You may not be able to change your home’s location or floor plan, but you can do a lot to improve its appearance. The look and feel of your home generates a greater emotional response than any other factor. Before a showing clean like you’ve never cleaned before. Pick up, straighten, unclutter, scrub, scour and dust. Fix everything, no matter how insignificant it may appear. Present your home to get a “wow” response from prospective buyers. Allow the buyers to imagine themselves living in your home. The decision to buy a home is based on emotion, not logic. Prospective buyers want to try on your home just like they would a new suit of clothes. If you follow them around pointing out improvements or if your decor is so different that it’s difficult for a buyer to strip it away in his or her mind, you make it difficult for them to feel comfortable enough to imagine themselves an owner.
  6. Make it easy for prospects to get information on your home. You may be surprised to know that some marketing tools that most agents use to sell homes (eg. traditional open houses) are actually not very effective. In fact only 1% of homes are sold at an open house.  Furthermore, the prospects calling for information on your home probably value their time as much as you do. The last thing they want to be subjected to is either a game of telephone tag with an agent, or an unwanted sales pitch. Make sure the ads your agent places for your home are attached to a 24 hour prerecorded hotline with a specific ID# for your home which gives buyers access to detailed information about your property day or night 7 days a week without having to talk to anyone. It’s been proven that 3 times as many buyers call for information on your home under this system. And remember, the more buyers you have competing for your home the better, because it sets up an auction-like atmosphere that puts you in the driver’s seat.
  7. Know your buyer In the negotiation process, your objective is to control the pace and set the duration. What is your buyer’s motivation? Does s/he need to move quickly? Does s/he have enough money to pay you your asking price? Knowing this information gives you the upper hand in the negotiation because you know how far you can push to get what you want.
  8. Make sure the contract is complete. For your part as a seller, make sure you disclose everything. Smart sellers proactively go above and beyond the laws to disclose all known defects to their buyers in writing. If the buyer knows about a problem, s/he can’t come back with a lawsuit later on. Make sure all terms, costs and responsibilities are spelled out in the contract of sale, and resist the temptation to diverge from the contract. For example, if the buyer requests a move-in prior to closing, just say no. Now is not the time to take any chances of the deal falling through.
  9. Don’t move out before you sell. Studies have shown that it is more difficult to sell a home that is vacant because it looks forlorn, forgotten, simply not appealing. It could even cost you thousands. If you move, you’re also telling buyers that you have a new home and are probably highly motivated to sell fast. This, of course, will give them the advantage at the negotiating table.

17535 W Guthrie Street, Surprise
$1,025,000
3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 7096778 MLS ⋅ 2,372 SqFt.
LIVE ON THE COURSE in this stunning single level Graton model located within the highly desirable Sterling Grove Golf and Country Club. The exterior welcomes you with a spacious covered front patio featuring elegant French doors that lead directly into a private guest bedroom, while a separate dedicated office space also boasts its own set of French doors for added privacy and style. Parking and storage are effortless thanks to the three-car (air conditioned) garage, which comes complete with expanded depth and full insulation. The backyard is an absolute entertainer's dream, highlighted by a gorgeous pool and spa equipped with a convenient in-floor cleaning system and a soothing water feature. The outdoor living space is perfected by a large covered patio and a fully outfitted outdoor kitchen that includes a built-in gas grill and a large Green Egg smoker, making it ideal for hosting gatherings. Seamless indoor-outdoor transition is achieved via the living room slider, which is an impressive sixteen-foot aluminum multi-panel collapsing slider with a flush sill that perfectly frames the picturesque golf course views. Sterling Grove Golf & Country Club is the West Valley's newest golf experience. The Golf Course is a world-class Nicklaus Design course, operated by the renowned Troon Golf Management Services and designed to be enjoyed by golf enthusiasts and newcomers alike. The state-of-the-art practice facilities are second to none. Hone your skills at the driving range, putting and chipping greens, or in the golf simulator. This home has first-class amenities and beautiful views of the White Tank Mountains, lakes, and ponds. You'll also enjoy the neighborhood greenery on your walks, jogs, bike rides!

17535 W Guthrie Street, Surprise

14000 N 94th Street Unit 1070, Scottsdale
$499,000
2 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 7096774 MLS ⋅ 1,338 SqFt.
Beautifully Updated Scottsdale Townhome in Gated Bella Vista! This light-filled end-unit residence blends modern updates, comfort, and effortless Arizona living. The open-concept living and dining areas feature vaulted ceilings, a cozy fireplace, and direct access to a private, covered patio with mountain views--the perfect setting for morning coffee or relaxing after a day on the golf course. The refreshed kitchen shines with stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, updated cabinetry and generous storage and counter space. Wood-look flooring extends throughout the home-no carpet!-complemented by fresh interior paint, shutters, updated lighting and ceiling fans, and new door & cabinet hardware. Bathrooms have also been refreshed with refinished vanities, updated shower surrounds and tubs and new bath accessories. The spacious primary suite offers bay windows, a walk-in closet, and an ensuite bath with dual sinks, a soaking tub, and a separate shower. A versatile second bedroom is ideal for guests or a home office. The HVAC system was replaced in 2023, adding valuable peace of mind. Enjoy the privacy of an end unit with no neighbors above or below, a private one-car attached garage with a storage closet and a desirable southeast-facing orientation. Bella Vista offers a gated, resort-style lifestyle with multiple pools and spas, a fitness center, clubhouse, putting green, BBQ areas, and scenic walking paths. Ideally located near Loop 101, Kierland Commons, Scottsdale Quarter, TPC Scottsdale, WestWorld, golf, shopping, and dining. An exceptional opportunity for a full-time residence, seasonal retreat, or lock-and-leave Arizona getaway!

14000 N 94th Street Unit 1070, Scottsdale

9719 W Los Gatos Drive, Peoria
$615,000
3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 7096755 MLS ⋅ 2,233 SqFt.
RESORT-STYLE LIVING IN THE HIGHLY SOUGHT-AFTER MEADOWS COMMUNITY OF NORTH PEORIA! Nestled on a quiet cul-de-sac, this beautifully upgraded single-level home offers 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and an inviting open-concept floor plan that seamlessly combines style, comfort, and functionality. Step inside to discover elegant marble flooring, abundant natural light, and a stunning floor-to-ceiling marble fireplace featuring customizable color-changing lighting that creates a striking focal point in the spacious great room. The beautifully appointed kitchen is perfect for everyday living and entertaining, showcasing gorgeous cabinetry, granite countertops, a stylish tile backsplash, double ovens, and an oversized walk-in pantry. Your own private backyard oasis awaits! Enjoy a sparkling heated saltwater pool with a dedicated, OWNED solar heating system, gorgeous travertine decking, and low-maintenance artificial turf. Designed for relaxation and entertaining, this incredible outdoor space offers the perfect setting to enjoy Arizona living throughout the year. Additional highlights include a tandem 3-car garage offering ample parking and storage, along with numerous upgrades completed since 2023 that enhance the home's beauty and functionality. Located in the desirable Meadows master-planned community, residents enjoy beautiful neighborhood parks, scenic walking paths, playgrounds, a community pool, and welcoming gathering spaces. Conveniently situated near Liberty High School, shopping, dining, entertainment, and major freeways, this home offers an exceptional combination of location, luxury, and lifestyle.

9719 W Los Gatos Drive, Peoria

3874 E Strawberry Drive, Gilbert
$749,000
4 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 7096736 MLS ⋅ 2,411 SqFt.
BRIDGES NORTH BEAUTY! Welcome to this stunning single-level Meritage home in the highly sought-after Bridges North section of The Bridges at Gilbert! Enjoy an incredible community lifestyle with parks, lakes, sand volleyball, bocce ball, basketball courts, and scenic walking paths just steps from your front door. This popular floorplan checks all the boxes, featuring fresh interior paint, custom laminate flooring, BRAND-NEW Berber carpet, and tasteful colors and finishes throughout. The spacious kitchen offers stainless steel appliances, abundant cabinetry, generous storage, and a large walk-in pantry, all opening seamlessly to the expansive great room--perfect for entertaining and everyday living. The true split floorplan provides exceptional privacy, with 4 bedrooms, 3 full baths, and a HUGE flex room ideal for a home office, game room, or additional living space. The 3-car garage features fresh epoxy flooring and built-in overhead storage to maximize functionality. NOW FOR THE BACKYARD! Enjoy your own private outdoor retreat with an oversized sparkling blue pool, custom paver decking, and a large covered patio perfect for relaxing or entertaining. The desirable N/S-facing homesite with NO ONE BEHIND YOU adds an extra level of privacy and enjoyment. Conveniently located near A+ Rated Higley, Gilbert, and Chandler-area schools, shopping, dining, freeway access, and Gilbert Regional Park. A fantastic opportunity to enjoy the Bridges lifestyle with the space, privacy, and features you've been looking for!

3874 E Strawberry Drive, Gilbert

9820 E Thompson Peak Parkway Unit 703, Scottsdale
$14,000,000
5 Beds ⋅ 7 Baths ⋅ 7096685 MLS ⋅ 10,196 SqFt.
A rare architectural offering within the guard-gated Country Club at DC Ranch neighborhood, this five-bedroom residence introduces the bold contemporary design increasingly sought after in today's luxury market, yet seldom found within this established community. A striking departure from the area's more traditional architectural styles, the home blends clean lines, natural stone, warm wood finishes and expansive walls of glass with sophisticated entertaining spaces and exceptional livability. Positioned along the 10th fairway with a west-facing backyard, the residence captures sweeping golf, mountain and down-valley city views, complemented by the setting of The Country Club at DC Ranch's redesigned 18-hole golf course and practice facilities. A long private approach and expansive motor court introduce the home's architecture. Inside, a generously scaled great room features a dramatic quartz fireplace surround and telescoping glass doors opening to expansive outdoor living areas. The beautifully appointed kitchen offers Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances, a generous gathering island, casual and formal dining, a glass-enclosed wine display and a fully equipped prep kitchen. An inviting bar opens to wraparound outdoor seating, creating an effortless connection between interior and exterior entertaining spaces. The private owner's retreat features a fireplace, dual custom wardrobes, a luxurious bath with steam shower, soaking tub and two private water closets, dedicated laundry and direct access to the pool, spa and covered outdoor living area. A generously proportioned guest suite, privately located near the kitchen, utility room and mudroom, offers scenic views, its own coffee bar and convenient access from the front motor court or garage. A separate secondary bedroom wing features three en-suite bedrooms, a den and a versatile exercise/flex room with two walls of expansive sliding glass doors opening directly to the pool and outdoor living areas. An upper-level media and golf simulator retreat with view balcony adds another entertainment space. Outdoor living includes expansive covered patios, fireplaces, fire features, a dramatic perimeter-overflow pool with negative edge, spa, water feature, putting green and dog run. A four-car garage, spacious utility room with two sets of stacked washers and dryers, and thoughtfully designed mudroom provide outstanding everyday functionality. Distinctive in architecture, remarkable in setting and thoughtfully designed for both entertaining and everyday living, this residence offers a rare opportunity within the Country Club at DC Ranch neighborhood. Private club membership is separate from home ownership. Designed for the long view. Created for a life well played.

9820 E Thompson Peak Parkway Unit 703, Scottsdale

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