New Hampshire

New Hampshire has so many things to be proud of. It is the most livable and most improved state in the U.S., the second healthiest state and among the top five safest states. This, according to the 2005 survey of the Morgan Quinto Press, a publishing firm that analyzes data to compare states and cities in various areas. The factors that led to New Hampshire’s awards included favorable employment, health care finance, higher education, social welfare as well as federal, state and local government finance.

New Hampshire’s housing market continues to grow. In 2004, it ranked 12th in the list of states having the fastest growing home prices. Prices of homes there went up by more than 12 percent in the recent years.

Real estate forms

Real estate laws all over the U.S. are similar in many ways. It is the practice and customs that vary. Each state usually has a real estate board or association that takes charge in approving contract forms for use in their area. The state of New Hampshire requires specific forms in the sale of a residential real estate. One of these is the residential real estate sale contract form which serves as a traditional arrangement between a seller and a buyer. Information contained in this agreement includes contingencies, home and pest inspections and title issues.

A counter offer to sales agreement may be needed in the event the seller is not amenable to the purchase price offered by the buyer. The counter offer should be reviewed by the seller’s lawyer to make sure that it sets fair terms and conditions.

The property disclosure form should be provided by the seller to the buyer before the signing of a contract. The form had been required by law for the benefit of buyers who, in the past, were somehow deceived in their home purchase discovering much later about the house’s physical defects. Most property disclosure statements do not cover new homes that have been occupied and sold.

The lead paint disclosure form is another requirement. This usually covers houses built before 1978 and those which used lead based paint. In addition to the disclosure statement, the seller must also provide the buyer with an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) fact sheet and pamphlet entitled “Lead Paint: Protect Your Family.” The pamphlet contains information on how to control lead paint hazards.

Understanding market issues

In selling your home yourself, it is highly recommended that you consult a real estate attorney before taking any major step. Check with your attorney the real estate laws and the corresponding approved forms to be used in your area. Having a lawyer guarantees your protection from any legal issue that may arise during the process of selling your home. He or she can also serve many roles during the transaction such as being your adviser, escrow agent and closing agent. Always consult your lawyer whenever you feel the need to, notably concerning the legal aspects of your home sale.

Being knowledgeable the local real estate market will likewise ensure that your transaction goes on smoothly. To get information on this aspect, you may consult an experienced agent or do your own research. Check the listing sites on the internet or your local realtors association. Ask about the prices of comparable homes in your neighborhood or those which sold recently to guide you in setting your home price. Keep in mind that a fair market value of your home will be an important factor in speeding up its sale. Avoid pricing it too high or too low or your property will end up without a buyer for a long time.

Finally, real estate experts would always tell sellers to make a good show of their homes to entice more buyers. This should never be taken for granted because, after all, this is the product you’re selling. Repair the parts of your house which need fixing and repaint walls if needed. Eliminate clutter, make your home look spacious and make it smell good, too. A clean and organized house is always a major consideration for buyers.