The First Step in Selling Your Parent’s Home

Selling your parent’s home is more than just a transaction; it’s a deeply personal process that often comes during a challenging time. Whether you’re handling an estate after a loved one’s passing or helping your parents transition to a new chapter, knowing where to start can make the entire process smoother.

One of the most critical first steps is notifying the right organizations and institutions. Taking care of this early ensures your parent’s accounts are handled properly and reduces the risk of identity theft. Here’s what you need to know to get started.

Notify the Social Security Administration (SSA)

If your parent was receiving Social Security benefits, notifying the SSA is essential. In most cases, the funeral home will report the death on your behalf, but it’s always a good idea to follow up and confirm. If they don’t handle it, you’ll need to contact the SSA directly. Unfortunately, deaths cannot be reported online, so you’ll need to call or visit a local SSA office.

Taking this step not only stops benefit payments but also ensures any eligible survivors receive the benefits they’re entitled to.

Notify Financial Institutions

Next, reach out to your parent’s financial institutions. This includes:

• Mortgage lenders: Notify them of the situation and discuss the options for the home loan moving forward.
• Banks and credit card companies: Request account closures and ensure no unauthorized activity occurs.
• Investment firms: Work with financial advisors to address investment accounts and determine the best course of action for any assets.

Each organization may require a certified death certificate or other legal documents. Contacting them early prevents complications later on.

Contact Credit Bureaus

Identity theft is a real concern after someone’s passing. To protect your parent’s identity, notify the three major credit bureaus:

1. Equifax
2. Experian
3. TransUnion

Request a credit freeze or alert to prevent anyone from opening accounts in your parent’s name. This is a simple yet effective way to safeguard their legacy.

Notify Insurance Companies

Insurance policies often play a significant role in estate settlements. Notify all relevant insurers, including:

• Life insurance: Begin the claim process for any benefits.
• Health insurance: Cancel coverage to avoid unnecessary premiums.
• Home and auto insurance: Update or cancel policies as needed to reflect the new ownership situation.

Having these policies in order ensures there are no lapses in coverage while you’re managing the home sale.

Notify Utility Companies

Don’t overlook utility providers. Contact companies for:

• Electricity
• Gas
• Water
• Internet and cable

Let them know about the transition to avoid missed payments or service interruptions. If the house will remain vacant during the sale, keep essential utilities running for showings and inspections.

Gather the Necessary Documents

As you notify these organizations, you’ll likely need multiple copies of the death certificate and proof of your authority to act on behalf of the estate (such as a power of attorney or executor documents). Staying organized will save you time and headaches as you move forward with selling the home.

Taking these steps early is essential for setting the stage for a successful home sale. Once the administrative tasks are in order, you’ll be better positioned to focus on preparing the property, determining its value, and marketing it to potential buyers.

If you’re ready to move forward or need help navigating the process, let’s talk. Click here to schedule a time to connect. Together, we can create a plan that honors your parent’s legacy and ensures a smooth transition for your family.

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Don’t Set an Unrealistic Asking Price when selling your home

Setting the right asking price for your home is one of the most critical decisions you’ll make when selling. It’s especially true if you’re managing the sale of a parent’s home—a process that can already feel overwhelming due to emotional ties and memories. In my experience, overpricing a home can lead to unnecessary challenges, while underpricing can leave money on the table.

Let’s explore why finding the sweet spot for your asking price is so important and how to approach this decision strategically.

The Risk of Overpricing

Studies show that the average market time for a home is about 90 days. Homes that linger on the market for longer than this tend to sell for 10% less than their actual value. Why? Buyers start to wonder what’s wrong with the property. Once you begin lowering the price to catch up with the market, you’re already at a disadvantage.

If you aim too high, buyers may pass over your home entirely. Instead of generating excitement and interest, an unrealistic price can cause your listing to stagnate. Remember, the listing price isn’t a final number—it’s a starting point for negotiations. A competitive price has the potential to attract multiple offers, sometimes even above asking.

The Value of a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA)

One of the best tools for setting a realistic price is a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA). This is where an experienced real estate agent like me can make all the difference. A CMA evaluates your parent’s home against similar properties in the area that have recently sold. Key factors we consider include:

• Condition: Is the home move-in ready, or does it need repairs?
• Location: Proximity to schools, parks, and amenities.
• Size: Number of bedrooms and bathrooms.
• Market Trends: Is it a buyer’s or seller’s market?
• External Factors: Proximity to road noise or other potential drawbacks.

Using this data, we can determine a price range that’s both competitive and achievable.

Avoid Letting Emotions Cloud Your Judgment

It’s natural to feel sentimental about your parent’s home. After all, it’s more than just a property—it’s a place filled with memories. However, emotional attachment can sometimes lead to overpricing. It’s important to separate your feelings from the market reality. Buyers are looking at the home objectively, and setting the price based on comparable sales is the best way to attract serious offers.

Why Pricing Low Can Pay Off

You might worry about pricing too low, but here’s the good news: The market has a way of correcting underpricing. If your home is priced competitively, it will attract multiple buyers, which often leads to bidding wars. This can drive the final sale price higher than you might expect. I’ve seen this strategy work time and again, especially in today’s market.

The key question to consider isn’t just about how much a buyer is willing to pay. It’s whether the offer will appraise for that amount. Pricing strategically ensures that your home appeals to buyers while aligning with appraisers’ valuations, keeping the deal on track.

Let’s Find the Right Price Together

Choosing the right price is both an art and a science. It requires market expertise, local knowledge, and a clear understanding of your goals. If you’re ready to sell and want to make the smartest pricing decision possible, I’m here to guide you every step of the way. Click here to schedule a time to connect, and let’s set your home up for success.

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5 Must-Have Features When Looking to Buy a Home

Buying a home is one of the most exciting (and nerve-wracking) experiences you’ll ever have. With so much at stake, it’s easy to focus on the cosmetic details, like a dream kitchen or stylish flooring, but I always tell my clients to think about the bones of the house first. Trust me—overlooking certain features can cost you big time after move-in. Here are the five must-haves I recommend paying close attention to when searching for your next home:

1. The Roof

The roof is one of the most critical (and expensive) parts of a house. Ideally, you want a roof with a 30-year architectural shingle that isn’t nearing the end of its lifespan. Replacing a roof can set you back tens of thousands of dollars, and the last thing you want is to face that expense right after moving in. When I’m helping clients, I always point out whether the roof is newer or will need replacement soon.

2. The Siding

If the home doesn’t have brick siding, look for hardy board, metal, or vinyl. Avoid older siding materials like Masonite, pressed wood, or cardboard, which deteriorate over time and can be very expensive to replace. Siding protects your home from the elements, so it’s essential to choose a home with durable, low-maintenance materials. You don’t want to spend your weekends worrying about peeling, rotting, or warping siding.

3. The Foundation

This one’s a deal breaker. A faulty foundation is an expensive and stressful problem to inherit. If a home has foundation issues that haven’t been properly repaired, or if it’s been patched and reinforced, it can carry a stigma that might hurt its resale value down the road. I always tell my clients: let it be someone else’s problem. There are plenty of homes out there with solid foundations—don’t compromise on this.

4. The Windows

Windows are easy to overlook during a showing, but they can significantly impact your energy bills and overall comfort. Original windows that haven’t been cared for can let heat escape in the winter and cool air out in the summer, driving up your utility costs. Replacing windows isn’t cheap—mid-range vinyl replacements can cost $30,000 or more. Look for homes with newer windows or ones that have been well-maintained.

5. The Mechanicals

The furnace, air conditioning system, and water heater are often taken for granted during the buying process, but they can be a financial landmine. A new furnace and A/C combo can cost $10,000 or more, and some companies scare homeowners into unnecessary upgrades or charge outrageous prices. A hot water heater should cost less than $1,000 plus installation—not $3,000. Pay attention to the age of these systems when touring homes, and budget for eventual replacements.

Expect the Unexpected

Even with the perfect home, there are always surprises after you move in. I advise all my clients to set aside at least $1,000 for repairs during the first six months. It’s not that sellers are hiding issues; homes are complex, and things just break. By focusing on these five must-have features, you’ll save yourself a lot of money and stress in the long run.

If you’re ready to find a home that checks all the right boxes, I’d love to help guide you through the process. Let’s make your next move the best one yet—book a time on my calendar to get started!

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What is a Sump Pump? And Why is it Important?

Hey there! As a real estate agent in the Twin Cities, I’ve seen more than my fair share of basements and the problems that can come with them, especially when it rains hard or when the snow starts melting. One of the key players in keeping your basement dry is the sump pump. But what exactly is it, and why should you care?

Understanding the Sump Pump

Most houses have a drain tile system. If you’re not familiar, think of it as a trench around your home’s foundation, both inside and out, hidden under your flooring. This trench is filled with corrugated pipe, class 5 rock, and other materials like sand. All these pipes connect in one spot in your basement, which we call the sump pump basket.

When water from heavy rains or melting snow seeps into this trench, it flows into the basket. Here’s where the sump pump comes into play. It activates, pumping the water out through a PVC pipe back into your yard, ideally 20 to 30 feet away from your foundation. This system is crucial in preventing your basement from flooding.

Why Sump Pumps Matter

The importance of a sump pump can’t be overstated. It’s your first line of defense against water damage in your basement. However, not all sump pumps are created equal or used equally. In some parts of the Twin Cities, they’re rarely needed, but in others, they’re running non-stop.

Cost and Practicality

With the rising costs of everything from furnaces to water heaters, sump pumps are no exception. I recently spoke with a client who was shocked at the price of a replacement. My advice? You might want to consider buying a sump pump from Home Depot and hiring a plumber for installation. However, with the market offering various models, including those with backup systems, choosing the right one can be daunting.

Innovative Solutions

Here’s an idea I’ve been mulling over: instead of using the standard setup with one main pump and a less powerful backup, why not install two powerful sump pumps in the same basket? Stack one deeper in the pail, the other closer to the top. This setup could provide a robust backup if one fails.

Additionally, consider a battery backup with an alarm for those times when the power goes out. Water damage can be devastating, and prevention is always better than cure.

Basement Flooring Trends

I’ve noticed a shift away from carpet in basements towards luxury vinyl flooring or just using large throw rugs. In case of water, you can easily remove and dry these.

Conclusion

The point of all this? Think before you spend. With costs on the rise, every penny saved on maintenance can be significant. If you have other ideas or disagree with my approach, please share! I’m all for finding the best solutions to common problems like this.

Get in Touch!

If you’re dealing with sump pump issues or thinking about installing one, reach out to me. Let’s discuss how to keep your home dry without breaking the bank.

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Does Weather Impact Real Estate?

As a seasoned real estate agent with over 20 years in the business here in Minnesota, I’ve seen firsthand how much weather can influence the housing market. Let’s start with the cold, harsh winters. When January hits with its icy grip, it’s not just the pipes that freeze—buyer activity does too. People simply don’t want to venture out into the bitter cold to look at houses, which can slow down the market significantly.

We’ve become a society of instant gratification, haven’t we? When homes aren’t popping up on the market like usual, potential buyers start to panic, thinking there’s something wrong. But here’s the truth: we’ve conditioned ourselves to believe that spring—particularly May and June—is the prime time for buying or selling a home. While that’s true for many, it’s not the whole story.

In a typical year, I notice the market heats up right after the Super Bowl weekend. It seems like once we’ve cleared some of the worst of winter, folks begin to eye the coming spring with thoughts of relocation. But don’t be fooled by the calendar; the ‘spring market’ in real estate can start as early as the first week of January or as late as late May.

It’s all about understanding when to strike. If you’re considering buying this year, I urge you to reach out to me. There’s a lot to prepare before you even peek at your first listing. First off, a chat with a loan officer to figure out not just what you can afford, but what you feel comfortable spending. The more info you share with me, the better I can serve you as your real estate agent.

Ready to navigate the market with confidence, no matter the weather? Contact me, and let’s get started on finding your dream home or selling your current one at the best possible time.

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Benefits of Owning a Home versus Renting 1 of 6: Build Equity

As a real estate professional, I understand the value of homeownership, and one of the biggest advantages is building equity. For those not familiar with the term, equity is essentially the portion of your property that you truly own, calculated after subtracting what you owe on your mortgage from the home’s market value. Imagine your home is worth $400,000 and you have a mortgage balance of $150,000; that gives you $250,000 in equity, much like money in a savings account.

Now, let’s talk retirement. Most of us in America dream of retiring one day, and when that time comes, you’ll still need a place to call home. Here’s where owning shines: if you lock in a 30-year fixed mortgage, your monthly payments remain constant, unlike rent which typically increases over time. Plus, you could refinance to a lower interest rate if it’s advantageous, potentially boosting your equity even further. Historically, since 1968, U.S. home values have appreciated between 2% to 4% annually, sometimes even more.

At the crux of it, owning a home rather than renting means you’re not caught in an endless cycle of rent increases. Once your mortgage is paid off as you approach or enter retirement, your primary housing costs reduce to just property taxes and insurance, which in most scenarios are far less than rent payments.

Building equity is just one of six compelling reasons why owning a home, trumps renting.

Ready to start building your wealth through homeownership? Contact me to discuss how you can begin this journey.

#HomeEquity, #RealEstateInvestment, #HomeOwnership, #RentVsBuy, #PropertyValue, #RealEstateTips, #HomeBuying, #MortgageTips, #RetirementPlanning, #FinancialFreedom

Benefits of Owning a Home Versus Renting: 2 of 6 – Build Net Worth

I’m thrilled to share with you why owning a home is such a game-changer when it comes to building your net worth. If you’re like me, you’ve probably dreamed of living the American Dream—financial freedom, a cozy place to call your own, and a solid foundation for your future. While I’ve always believed in investing in retirement through a 401K or other savings plans, I’ve come to realize that owning a home should be right at the top of the list. It’s not just a place to live; it’s a powerful tool for growing your wealth and securing your financial independence. Let me tell you why this feels like such a win for me—and why it could be for you too.

For me, owning a home is like having a forced savings account that actually pays off. Every month, as I pay down my mortgage, I’m building equity—essentially putting money into a piggy bank I can tap into later. That equity is the key to building wealth over time. Unlike renting, where your monthly payment disappears into someone else’s pocket, my mortgage payments are an investment in my future. I love knowing that when I retire, I’ll have a home to live in without the burden of rent. It’s a huge relief to think about living more affordably in my golden years, all because I chose homeownership over renting.

But here’s where it gets even better: that equity isn’t just sitting there—it’s like a bank account I can access when I need it. I’m talking about a home equity line of credit (HELOC). Life happens, right? Maybe credit card debt creeps up, or I dream of upgrading my kitchen or even buying a vacation home. With a HELOC, I can consolidate debt, make home improvements, or invest in another property. The options feel endless, and it’s empowering to know I have that financial flexibility. Renting could never give me that kind of control or opportunity—it’s one of the biggest reasons I’m so glad I chose to buy.

When I was younger, building net worth didn’t feel like a priority—I started with nothing, just like most of us. But now, as I get older, I can’t tell you how good it feels to see my mortgage balance drop with every payment. It’s like watching my wealth grow, brick by brick. Each step brings me closer to financial independence, and that’s a feeling I wouldn’t trade for anything. Trust me, there’s something deeply satisfying about knowing I’m not just paying a landlord—I’m investing in myself and my family’s future.

By the way, this is just one of six reasons I think owning a home beats renting hands down—it’s actually number two on my list, but it could easily be number one! Be sure to check out my other blogs and videos where I dive into the rest of the reasons, along with tons of real estate tips. I’m passionate about helping people like you see the benefits of homeownership, from building equity to enjoying the stability of a forever home. Ready to start building your net worth through homeownership? Reach out to me today—I’d love to help you get started on this exciting journey!

#Homeownership, #BuildNetWorth, #RealEstateInvesting, #FinancialIndependence, #OwningVsRenting, #EquityBuilding, #MortgagePayoff, #HomeEquity, #WealthBuilding, #AmericanDream

Benefits of Owning a Home Versus Renting: 3 of 6 Tax Benefits

As a homeowner myself, I’m always looking for ways to save money, especially when it comes to taxes. One of the best perks of owning a home versus renting is the incredible tax benefits the government offers us. Did you know that when you own a home, you can deduct the interest you pay on your mortgage and your property taxes? It’s a game-changer for families like mine who want to keep more money in their pockets. Let me break it down for you in a way that’s easy to grasp and show you why homeownership beats renting when it comes to tax savings.

Let’s talk mortgage interest first. Say I pay $10,000 a year in interest on my home loan (a pretty common amount depending on your mortgage size). If I’m in the 30% tax bracket—and I’m keeping the math loose here for simplicity—that means I could deduct about $3,500 from my income taxes. That’s $3,500 less I’m taxed on, just for owning my home! Renters don’t get this kind of break. Sure, some states offer a small renter’s credit, but it’s usually just a few bucks—pennies compared to what homeowners can save. For me, that deduction feels like a little financial high-five every tax season.

Then there’s the property tax deduction, which is fully deductible too. Let’s say my property taxes are $4,000 a year (a rough average across the U.S.). If I make $60,000 annually—about the average American income—I can subtract that $4,000 plus the $10,000 in mortgage interest from my taxable income. So instead of being taxed on $60,000, I’m only taxed on $46,000. That’s a $14,000 reduction! Now, everyone’s situation is different—tax brackets, income, and deductions vary—so I always tell folks to chat with their accountant for the exact numbers. But the point is, owning a home slashes my tax bill in a way renting never could.

Renting just doesn’t stack up here. While I’ve heard renters say they love the flexibility, I’m over here building financial independence one tax break at a time. That said, if you own a condo or townhome like some of my friends do, those monthly association dues aren’t deductible—bummer, right? But the mortgage interest and property taxes still are, so you’re still ahead of the renting game. For me, these tax benefits are a huge step toward saving money and securing my future. If you’re ready to ditch renting and start reaping the rewards of homeownership, reach out to me today—I’d love to help you get started!

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Benefits of Owning a Home Versus Renting: 4 of 6 – Stability

Hi there! I’m excited to share my thoughts on one of the biggest perks of owning a home—stability. It’s something I didn’t fully appreciate until I settled into my own place after years of renting. When I was renting, I always had this nagging worry in the back of my mind about moving unexpectedly. Now, as a homeowner, I’ve found a sense of peace that’s hard to put into words. If you’re someone trying to plant roots in a community—maybe you’re looking for a safe, comfortable spot to raise your kids—homeownership offers a level of stability renting just can’t match. Let me tell you why this matters so much, especially if you’ve got a family or are planning for the long haul.

One huge advantage I’ve noticed is how owning a home locks in your living situation. When I bought my house, I went with a 30-year fixed mortgage—pretty standard whether you’re going FHA or conventional. That means my principal and interest payments stay the same for 30 years. Sure, property taxes and home insurance might wiggle up or down a bit year to year, but that core mortgage payment? Rock solid unless I refinance. Compare that to renting, where I’ve seen friends get hit with rent hikes or forced to move because the landlord decided to sell. Stability like this is a game-changer when you’re trying to build a life somewhere.

Speaking of moving, let’s talk about kids for a sec. I’ve got friends who rented and had to uproot their families when a lease ended or a property sold. Suddenly, their kids were out of the school district they loved, leaving behind friends and starting over. It’s tough! When I bought my home, I picked an area with great schools and a neighborhood I adore. Now, I don’t have to worry about that kind of disruption. My kids—if I had them—could grow up with the same buddies, in the same safe spot, because I’m not at the mercy of a landlord’s whims. That’s stability I can feel in my bones.

Then there’s the renting horror stories I’ve witnessed. I’ve seen people blindsided when their landlord sold the place out from under them. If you’re on a month-to-month lease, you might get just 30 days to pack up and go—maybe 60 if you’re lucky. Even with a long-term lease, once it’s up, new owners often jack up the rent or kick you out to renovate for higher profits. I’ve been there, scrambling to find a new place, and it’s stressful—not to mention more expensive every time. Owning my home means I stay put until I decide it’s time to move. My buddy who’s been renting for 50 years, dreaming of New York City but never going? He’s still at the mercy of landlords. I’m not.

Finally, I can’t overstate how owning a home sets me up for retirement. Once my mortgage is paid off—and I’m working toward that debt-free day—I’ll own my house outright. Then, it’s just property taxes and insurance, which is way less than rent in most cases. I love knowing I’ve got a stable, affordable place to live when I’m older. Some folks argue renting is better because of flexibility or appreciation myths, but I disagree. If I take care of my home, its value grows, and I’ll cash in when I sell. For me, the stability of homeownership beats renting every time—it’s about control, peace, and building a future on my terms.

Ready to ditch the uncertainty of renting and embrace the stability of owning your own home? Reach out to me today—I’d love to help you get started on this journey!

#Homeownership, #RentingVsBuying, #RealEstateTips, #HomeStability, #MortgageLife, #FamilyHome, #PropertyInvestment, #OwnYourHome, #HousingMarket, #RealEstateJourney

Benefits of Owning a Home Versus Renting: 5 of 6 Personalization

Today I want to dive into one of my favorite topics as a real estate enthusiast—why owning a home beats renting, especially when it comes to personalization. As a homeowner myself, I’ve experienced firsthand the freedom that comes with making a space truly mine. When you own a home, you can tweak, remodel, and upgrade to your heart’s content. Want new countertops in the kitchen? Go for it. Dreaming of hardwood floors or a custom deck out back? It’s your call! The only limits might come if you’re in a homeowners association (HOA), where rules might dictate your front door color or exterior changes. Even then, inside your single-family home, the possibilities are endless—no landlord telling you “no” or HOA committee slowing you down (well, mostly!).

Now, let’s talk about the practical side of personalization. If you’re in an HOA-controlled condo or townhome, you might need committee approval for big interior changes, especially if it’s attached to another unit. They’ll want permits and pros involved to ensure your remodel doesn’t mess with the neighbors—fair enough! But with a standalone home, it’s a different story. I’ve seen friends pour money into fixing up rentals—new flooring, fancy appliances—only to leave it all behind when the landlord sells. That’s heartbreaking! When I invest in my own home, whether it’s upgrading the bathroom or adding sleek appliances, that money stays with me. It’s not just about making my space cozy; it’s an investment that pays off when I sell.

And here’s the kicker: personalization isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s a financial win too. Most home improvement projects, like remodeling a kitchen or finishing a basement, boost your property’s value. Buyers go wild for updated kitchens and bathrooms—they’ll pay a premium for it. I once helped a client finish their basement, adding 1,000 square feet of living space, and it translated to real dollars when they sold. Quicker sales, higher offers—it’s a no-brainer! Sure, owning a home means regular maintenance like roofing or siding updates, but I’m talking about the fun stuff here: creating a space that screams you. A deck for summer BBQs, a bathroom with that rainfall showerhead you’ve always wanted—those are the changes that make a house a home.

Renting? You’re stuck. You might beg your landlord for permission to paint a wall, but even if they say yes, your hard work benefits them when you move out. I’ve lived that life, and it’s frustrating to pour energy into a place only to leave it behind. Owning a home gives me peace of mind—every upgrade, from new flooring to a built-in bookshelf, is for me and my family to enjoy. Plus, when it’s time to sell, those improvements often come back to me with interest. It’s not just about money, though—it’s freedom. The freedom to live life my way, to build a space that fits my dreams, not someone else’s rules.

So, if you’re weighing homeownership versus renting, think about this: personalization is an investment in yourself. Whether it’s adding value with a finished basement or just enjoying a kitchen you’ve made your own, owning a home lets you live bigger and bolder. Ready to ditch the rental grind and start building your dream space? Reach out to me at tomsommersrealestate.com—I’d love to help you get started on your homeownership journey!

#Homeownership, #RealEstateTips, #OwnVsRent, #PersonalizeYourHome, #HomeImprovement, #RealEstateInvestment, #DreamHome, #PropertyValue, #HomeBuying, #LivingMyWay