The Contract Creates Important Deadlines

Once an offer is accepted and the contract becomes effective, both parties have obligations and deadlines that can affect the transaction.

Depending on the contract, important milestones may involve:

• Earnest money.
• Option-period deadlines.
• Buyer inspections.
• Financing requirements.
• Appraisal.
• Title matters.
• HOA documentation when applicable.
• Closing preparations.
• Final walk-through.
• Possession.

Bale Real Estate Group Tracks the Transaction Through Closing

Gary and Linda help sellers understand what is happening at each stage rather than assuming the transaction will simply move forward on its own.

Bale Real Estate Group’s contract-to-close approach includes deadline tracking, communication with the appropriate parties and helping sellers address issues that arise before closing.

Keep Preparing for the Move

Once the home is under contract, sellers should also continue planning for moving, packing and the condition in which the property must be delivered according to the contract.

Gary and Linda can help homeowners connect with packing, moving and other resources through Bale Real Estate Group’s concierge vendor network when appropriate.

The Buyer's Inspection and Due Diligence

The buyer may conduct inspections and other due diligence according to the contractual terms and deadlines.

A general inspection may identify observations involving:

• Foundation and structural components.
• Roofing.
• HVAC systems.
• Water heaters.
• Electrical systems.
• Plumbing.
• Windows and exterior components.
• Drainage and irrigation.
• Pool and pool equipment when applicable.

An Inspection Report Does Not End the Transaction

Inspection reports can contain many observations, and buyers may subsequently request repairs, concessions or other negotiated solutions.

Gary and Linda help sellers separate the inspection findings from the actual buyer request and evaluate the significance of the issues before determining how to respond.

Repair Negotiations May Follow the Inspection

A buyer’s inspection can lead to additional negotiations after the original purchase contract has already been accepted.

Gary and Linda help Country Club Ridge sellers evaluate factors including:

• The nature of the buyer’s concern.
• Potential repair or replacement cost.
• Whether specialist evaluation may be appropriate.
• The existing contract terms.
• Concessions already negotiated.
• The seller’s priorities.
• Potential transaction risk.

Bale Real Estate Group's Concierge Vendor Network

If additional professional information or repair work is appropriate, Gary and Linda can help sellers connect with resources for roofing, HVAC, plumbing, electrical work, pools, handyman services and other property needs.

This can be particularly useful when contractual deadlines require sellers to gather information efficiently.

The Seller Still Controls the Decision

Gary and Linda’s role is to help homeowners understand the available information, options and potential implications.

The seller remains responsible for deciding how they want to respond within the terms of the transaction.

What Happens During the Appraisal?

When the buyer is obtaining financing, the lender may require an appraisal of the property.

The appraisal is separate from the home inspection. Its purpose and role in the transaction differ from an inspection focused on property condition.

Gary and Linda help sellers understand the appraisal-related provisions contained in the contract and respond appropriately if an appraisal issue arises.