As the housing market shows signs of recovery, homebuyers are flocking to snap up deals on bargain properties across the country.
That means running into competition is par for the course––and the weakest bids will not survive.
"If you are serious about buying, it becomes a bit of a part time job," says Zillow.com real estate expert Brendon DeSimone. "This is your home and your only investment."
We asked DeSimone to clue consumers into how they can make their bids stand out.
Don't wait for the open house
DeSimone is quick to advise clients to see as many houses as possible on weekends––whether or not they're invited.
"With the Internet, information moves so quickly. [Sellers] could do a private showing Wednesday [days before a scheduled open house]" he says. "If it looks good online, go see it."
Check email hourly for listing updates from your broker
"If you're a serious buyer, you make it a priority in your life and you're going to get email alerts from your broker every other hour," he says.
"Be in touch with your agent and know about new properties as they hit the market."
Don't be intimidated by higher bidders
These days, investors and average joes alike are flocking to snatch up deals on homes. Don't let them psych you out, DeSimone says.
"Don’t spend too much energy trying to figure out what’s really going on with the other offers. If you love the property, keep moving forward, but at your own pace. Make the offer you’re comfortable with, and only when you’re comfortable making it."
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