The road to a Successful home sale with JUSTYNA
A Seller's Guide & Checklist
justyna burliga
REALTOR® justyna.burliga@cbrealty.com (708) 717-5701
Your home is a huge part of your life, both financially and emotionally. So the decision to sell a house is not one to be made lightly. As your trusted real estate agent, I am here to guide you through every step of the selling process, offering my professional insights and services along the way and getting the most value for your property. Backed by one of the most powerful and recognized brands in the industry, I can help you: • Price your home competitively • Market your property to qualified buyers • Negotiate for the best offer • Navigate the closing process • Connect with my network of real estate-related service partners This Home Seller Guide will walk you through each of these steps, and I am happy to discuss the process with you in more detail and answer any questions you have.
the home-selling process
competitive pricing
I will conduct a comparative market analysis (CMA) that features data from the multiple listing service based on buyer and seller activity in your area. By considering market factors and local competition, I’ll thoroughly assess your home and optimally price it from the start, so it generates the most interest from buyers. Key CMA data includes: • Comparable properties in your area that recently sold • Comparable properties in your area that failed to sell • Pending sales in your area • Comparable active listings in your area ABOUT YOUR HOME Buyers also find it helpful to know what the seller find to be the best features of their home. What attracted you to this particular home? What are your favorite features in your home? What will you miss the most about your home? Is there any feature in this home that you would like to see in your next home? How would you decribe your neighborhood?
Pre-Contract / At Time of Listing Plat of Survey - needed for the MLS and Appraiser Most Recent Real Estate Tax Bill - needed for the MLS and Appraiser Copy of Title Insurance Policy - needed for the Attorney Two Sets of House Keys - one for the lockbox and one for the office Garage Door Openers - to be left in the house Any inspection reports regarding termites, radon, asbestos, lead, mold, structual issues, and the remedies taken to correct the issues Seller's Property Disclosures - Lead, Radon & Residential Property - completed and signed Seller's Utilities Records for the Past Year - Gas, Electric, Water, Scavenger Service Signed Home Warranty Agreement - if offered with the listing Signed Listing Agreement & Addendum - if listing will not be in the MLS within 72 hours Village Permits for any Home Improvements
A Seller's checklist
After the Listing Agreement is signed
MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE Your home will be put into the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) where other Real Estate Agents and their clients will see it and set appointments for their Buyers to view your home BROKER OPEN HOUSE I may schedule a Broker Open House. These take place on Tuesdays or Thursdays and help introduce your home to the agents in the area. They use this tour to "preview" the home for their buyers. It is not necessary for you to be present during the Broker Open house. I will be there to answer any questions. PUBLIC OPEN HOUSE I may also hold a public Open house. These are typically held over the weekend on either Saturday or Sunday to appeal to the majority of buyers who work during the week. Again, it is not neceessary for you to be present. I will be hosting the open house and will be able to handle any questions that may come up.
Your home will best appeal to buyers if it is: Clean - every room especialy the kitchen and the bathrooms Free of debris and clutter - will help make the rooms appear spacious Fresh smelling - scented candles, fresh baking, etc. Well Lit - drapes/blinds open and lights turned on! PREPPING FOR SHOWINGS It is important that your home be ready for showing. Make sure that you discuss any improvements or repairs with me berfore the first buyer comes through. If you have pets, make sure that they are accounted for and that there is a plan for them when your home is being show. I will provide you with a Showing Log to write down the showing as they are schedule. This will help you keep track of the dates and times of each showing. I will also follow up for feedback. I will provide you a Feature Sheet which is left in your home and highlights the features of your home. The Sellers Disclosures, the Home Warranty, and any other information that you would like to sare is available for the buyers and their agents to review. If you have a lockbox on your property, it is not necessary for you to be present during showings. If you prefer to stay during showings, make sure that you give the buyer and their Agent space they need to comfortably go through the home. The agent showing your home will leave their business card so that your agent can follow-up for the client reaction.
PREPPING FOR SHOWINGS
ONLINE AND SOCIAL MEDIA
ADVERTISING
YARD SIGN
AGENT PROMOTION
VIDEO
Photography If a picture is worth a thousand words, then beautiful high-quality images could be worth thousands of dollars when selling your home. I’ll make your property look its very best, thanks to professional photography that encourages buyers who are browsing online to slow down and take notice. Online Exposure Your home and its critical selling points will featured on coldwellbanker.com and dozens of other high-traffic sites, putting it in front of potential buyers everywhere. Open House and Private Showings One of the most powerful ways to debut your home is by hosting an open house, where buyers can tour your home and connect with the space and the neighborhood. With your permission, serious buyers and their agents can also schedule a private showing with me so they can explore your home without the distraction of other buyers. Email Marketing My property announcements will reach my exclusive email list and are an easy yet effective way to connect with buyers, agents and their networks. Social Media Today’s buyers are active on social media, which is why I’ll heavily promote your property on social to generate buzz and attract the attention of potential buyers. Direct Mail When paired with digital marketing, specialty marketing like direct mailers serves to set your listing apart and remains an effective add-on for directly connecting with buyers in your area. It’s also a resourceful way to tap into your neighbors’ networks, creating an opportunity for them to notify their family and friends who are looking for a home.
EMAIL MARKETING
OPEN HOUSE
Great marketing isn’t just about waiting for a buyer to come your way – it’s active promotion that targets likely buyers where they are, whether that’s online, around town or across the country. My comprehensive marketing strategy will maximize your home’s exposure. Here are just some of the ways:
marketing your property
PRINT ADVERTISING
when we get a contract
When a buyer has decided that they would like to write a contract to purchase your home, he will contact his Buyer’s Agent to write and negotiate the offer. The Buyer’s Agent provides his buyer with “area comps” to help verify the pricing and is also available to offer advice to the buyer. The Buyer’s Agent will secure the necessary documents needed to present the contract to the Seller and the Seller’s Agent (such as the buyer’s loan qualification letter), and any information that the buyer wishes to share about himself. The Buyer’s Agent will contact the Seller’s Agent to go over the terms of the contract The contract is then delivered in person to the Seller’s Agent or sent via e-mail or e-fax. The Seller’s Agent will contact you and will set a time and place to go through the entire contract. This can happen in person or over the phone. Your Agent will help you through the entire negotiation process. The details of the Buyer’s Contract to Purchase will be explained and you will have an opportunity to respond to any parts of the contract that need to be addressed. This process can take anywhere from hours to days while the details are being negotiated. All communication is done through the Agents involved in the transaction. Once the details are agreed upon, the contract is signed, dated and forwarded to the Real Estate Attorneys that have been selected by the parties to handle the Real Estate closing. The contract allows an Attorney approval period of five business days from the acceptance date to allow the attorneys to modify, if needed, any parts of the contract (with the exception of the Sales Price) that need to be changed. The Buyers also have an opportunity to conduct a Home Inspection on the property. This inspection needs to take place within the first five days after acceptance of the offer or if an extended inspection date has been agreed upon through the Attorneys. The inspection issues are noted and relayed to the Sellers through their Agent or Attorney within the next five business days via written notice. The Sellers have a chance to respond through their Agent and Attorney as to the measures they will take to address the inspection issues. The Buyers may be securing a mortgage loan to finance their home. The sales contract allows them enough time to apply for and receive a written commitment for their loan. As part of the mortgage loan process, an Appraisal will be conducted on your home. This is arranged through your Listing Agent and typically occurs within the first month of the contract. The appraisal determines if the price the Buyers paid for your home is in line with what comparable homes are selling for in your area. Your Agent will meet the Appraiser at your home and provide the Appraiser with a copy of the sales contract, a copy of your feature sheet, a copy of your plat of survey, and the comparable properties that they used to price your home. It is also helpful to have a list of any home improvements that have been completed during your ownership.
Your home and your home sale needs are one of a kind. As your agent, I will guide you every step of the way – from setting the optimal listing price and prepping your home for sale to marketing and following through to a smooth, successful closing. I am committed to your interests with the utmost care, honesty, integrity and discretion. Let’s get started!
negotiating the best offer
Every step of the way, I will support you and your best interests until your home is sold. I will work with all parties involved through the closing process to ensure a smooth, positive experience, including:
Buyer’s Agent – I will act as the liaison between you and the agent representing the buyer, including negotiating the terms of the contract on your behalf and answering questions. Attorney and Title Company – I will supply all information needed by the attorney or title company to help with a smooth closing. Underwriter – If your buyer is securing a loan, I will be available to provide any information about the home that’s needed by the buyer’s mortgage underwriter. Inspector – I will help coordinate the timing of the inspection and work with the buyer’s agent to clarify any requests the buyer has based on the findings. Appraiser – If the buyer or mortgage company requests an appraisal, I will help coordinate the details.
To get the most out of your home sale – and avoid putting yourself at a disadvantage – you’re going to want an agent who knows how to negotiate. It’s my job to get you the best possible price, and with data from my comparative market analysis and my tried-and-tested negotiation techniques, I’ll build a strong case so you get top dollar. If your property receives multiple offers, I will help you evaluate the terms of each as price is not always the only factor to consider. Other factors may include improvements the buyer is requesting to be done and other contingencies, timing of the closing, requests for the seller to cover part of the closing fees, and if the buyer is paying cash or obtaining a mortgage. I will help you determine which offer is the best for your needs.
support through closing
Your Agent will provide a Seller Net Sheet which is an approximate estimate of what your net cash at closing figure will be once the expenses of selling your home are deducted. The actual figures are determined by your attorney and will be provided prior to the closing. Contracts in Illinois require that the Seller provide protection to the Buyer for matters regarding title to the real estate. That protection is given by a title Insurance company registered in the state of Illinois. This Title Insurance protects the owner from unknown defects in the title such as liens against the property from a former owner or undisclosed liens by the current owner. The cost of the title insurance is a seller cost and while some attorneys may recommend a certain Title Company that they are affiliated with, it is prudent that the Seller compare the costs and benefits of various title insurance providers. Burnet Title is a Coldwell Banker title company that offers very competitive rates. Title Insurance is paid for at the closing. The seller is also responsible for providing an updated survey of the property. The new survey shows any changes that the Seller has made to the property during his ownership such as a new fence, deck, garage etc. The survey is ordered prior to closing either by the Seller’s attorney or in some cases the Seller’s Agent. The survey is paid for at the closing. The Seller is responsible for the Real Estate Taxes on the property up until the closing date. Real Estate Taxes are paid in “arrears” which means the taxes being paid currently are for the prior year - not the present year. Therefore, a credit is given to the buyer for any unpaid taxes due from the prior year and up to the closing for the present year. Your attorney will calculate the amount of the credit and this will be given to the buyers at close in the form of a credit on the closing statement. Depending on where you live, you may be charged a transfer tax from the town where you reside. Each area is different and your Agent can tell you whether this charge will apply to you. If your town does not have a specific tax that is charged, you will be paying a state and county tax which amounts to $1.50 per $1,000.00. Your Attorney handles the details of obtaining the correct amount to be paid and it is taken care of at closing. The town may also require a village inspection prior to the closing. This inspection is scheduled by the Sellers or their Agent and is paid for at the time it is scheduled. Each town has it’s own fee structure. Your Agent will be able to determine if your town requires this inspection.
Seller Costs
Appraisal
$300 - $700
Credit Report
$15 - $30
Processing Fee
$250 - 750
Escrow Deposit for Taxes and Insurance
Varies Widely
Transfer of Taxes
Varies Widley
Loan Discount Points
0 - 2% of loan
Title Company Closing Fee
$800 - $1300
Buyer's Attorney Fee
$400 & up
Title Insurance (Lender's Policy)
$400 - $800
Homeowner's Insurance
$300 and up
Underwriting Fee
$250 - $795
Survey Fee
Home Inspection
Pest Inspection
$100 - $250
Down Payment
Flood Determination/Life of Loan Coverage
$12 - $20
Recording Fees
Varies
Courier Fee
$20
Prepaid Interest
Varies on Loan
Application Fee (applied towards closing costs)
$0-$500
Miscellaneous Title Company Charges
$500 - $750
Typical Closing Costs Total
2% - 5% of purchase price of home
It's one of the top questions asked by home buyers. Lenders are required by law to disclose in witing a buyer's estimated closing costs and fees. This is known as a Good Faith Estimate. Below is a brief summary of possible closing costs your buyer might have to pay depending on the lender and the loan program they select. Costs vary. Sample closing costs
closing costs
SALE PRICE
Property Tax proation for 12 Months If Seller has paid month into an Escrow ASccount, there may be fund available to offset this amount
1st Mortgage Balance
2nd Mortgage or Other Liens
Less Attorney Fee (fees will vary)
Approximate Cash after Seller Responsibilities
Real Estate Brokerage Fee
Title Insurance Fee (see schedule)
Tax Stamps (County/State) $1.50 per $1,000
City Transfer Tax (If applicable)
Home Warranty (if offered)
Recording Fees and Miscellaneous
Discount Points
Pest Inspection/Flood Certification/Termite Inspection
Other
Approximate Net Cash at Closing
Approx. Seller Next Sheet
This is a reasonable extimate only. The actual figures will be determined by your Attorney.
Most Real Estate Closings are scheduled by the Attorneys and typically take place at the Title Company that is issuing the Title Insurance. Sometimes the closings take place at the Attorney’s office or at another designated location. Your attorney will schedule the closing and will inform you of the location and time. As per the Sales Contract, a closing date has been agreed upon and the Seller’s Attorney is then responsible for setting up the closing. You will be notified as to the exact time and location through your Attorney’s office. The Seller and his Attorney will be present at the closing along with the Buyers, their Attorney and the Closer. The Real Estate Agents involved may be present also. In some cases, the Seller may not be present at the closing and will have “pre-signed “ the documents necessary to transfer the title to the new owners. You can discuss this option with your Attorney. Closings typically take about one to two hours as there are many documents that need to be explained and signed. Sometimes issues arise and cause a delay in the closing. If the Attorneys involved are Real Estate Attorneys, they have experience with the Real Estate closings and are prepared for any situation that may come up. The Seller typically gives possession to the Buyer at the end of the closing - providing the Buyer funds have been paid to the Seller. This is when the house keys, the garage door openers and any other item that has been a part of the sale is given to the Buyer. This also means that the house should be ready for the new owners. It should be empty, clean, and in move-in condition. If the Seller needs additional time after the end of the closing to finish cleaning the house for the new owners, this is communicated to the Buyers prior to the closing through the Agents and Attorneys. A time is set for the Buyers to move-in and arrangements are made for the Buyers to get the keys from the Seller’s Agent. Sometimes the Seller has negotiated a delayed possession agreement with the Buyer and his Attorney. This delay in possession is sometimes necessary if the Seller is moving into another home that will not be ready or simply if the Seller feels he may need an additional amount of time to move out. The Seller pays the Buyer for this period of time generally based on the Buyers mortgage payment or estimated average monthly cost to own. Typically the rate per day that the Seller is charged is determined by dividing the buyer’s monthly housing payment by 30 (the number of days in the month). Part of the seller’s proceeds are withheld at closing to cover this possession rental fee. Congratulations! You made it through the Selling Process!
Closing
SELLER INFO
BUYER INFO
Name
Address
Home Phone
Cell Phone
Attorney
Phone
Fax
Agent Name
Agent Phone
sale information
Date of Contract
Contingent on Sale
Attorney Approval
Contingent on Close
Closing Date
Lead Paint Inspection
Possession Date
Radon Inspection
Earnest Money
Finance Contingency
Final Walk Thru
contact information
Important Dates
Justyna Burliga is a dedicated and personable real estate agent with Coldwell Banker Realty in La Grange, IL. With a passion for working with people and a wealth of experience, Justyna brings a unique blend of skills and expertise to her clients. For 15 years, Justyna successfully ran her own cleaning service, honing her business acumen and developing a keen eye for detail. This experience has equipped her with exceptional organizational skills and a deep understanding of what it takes to run a successful business. Fluent in both Polish and English, Justyna is able to connect with a diverse range of clients, ensuring clear and effective communication. Justyna’s patience and strong listening skills make her an excellent advocate for her clients. She understands the importance of truly hearing her clients’ needs and desires, and her strong negotiation skills ensure that they get the best possible outcomes. As a mother of three, Justyna has mastered the art of multitasking and managing various responsibilities, which translates into her ability to handle the complexities of real estate transactions with ease. ith extensive experience in the southwest suburbs of Chicago and throughout the Chicagoland area, Justyna is well-versed in the local market. Her certifications as an Accredited Buyer Representative (ABR), Luxury Property Specialist, Seller Representative Specialist (SRS), Senior Real Estate Specialist® (SRES), and Strategic Pricing Specialist (SPS) enable her to provide specialized services tailored to her clients’ needs. As a member of Coldwell Banker Realty’s International Sterling Society, Justyna is recognized as one of the top agents in her office, a testament to her dedication and expertise. Justyna’s global luxury certification further highlights her proficiency in the luxury market, allowing her to cater to clients seeking high-end properties. Her consistent performance and commitment to excellence have made her a trusted advisor in the real estate industry.
about me
JUSTYNA BURLIGA Coldwell Banker Realty 708.717.5701 justyna.burliga@cbrealty.com
Justyna Waksmundzki Justyna is very professional and super nice. She showed us many properties with patience. She provided valuable opinions and suggestions they were very helpful . We did not feel pressured at all .With her help we found the home we really liked and bought .We would highly recommend Justyna to our family and friends to be there agent. She makes sure we are informed about properties as well as paper work . Just a makes sure everything is done right way . Highly recommended . She also sold our previous house . Joanna B Justyna is a phenomenal real estate agent. She is very knowledgeable and always answered all of the questions we had. She walked us through every little step of the way while buying and selling our house. She made the entire process of buying and selling enjoyable and really smooth! If you are looking to have someone by your side who actually cares about you and your needs Justyna Burliga is the one to go with! We got what we looked for because of her work ethic and professionalism. Anna Styrczula It was an absolute pleasure working with Justyna throughout the process of purchasing our dream home. From beginning to end she was helpful, knowledgeable and responsible. When we first saw the home we wanted I remember calling her immediately and saying “let’s do whatever it takes” and that’s exactly what she did. We felt guided and comfortable while working with her. She was always on top of the game answering immediately any question we might had. Not only did she help us purchase our dream home but she also helped us sell our existing townhome home super fast! We absolutely recommend her and we will definitely work with her in the future. Thank you Justyna for all of your help!!! We appreciate you!!! Richard Wisniewski Justina was very informative. From the start, she educated me on what the going rate was for similar properties and based on the condition of my property, what a proper asking price would be. She made a persuasive ad for my property, that attracted valuable buyers. She coached me on what bids to consider, and advised me through the closing process. I am very satisfied how Justina represented me as a realtor. She did an outstanding job. Lisa Zurita I would highly recommend Justyna Burliga as a real estate agent. She helped me buy my current home that I love and also sold my most recent home. Selling my home was difficult and Justyna hung in there with me and was always encouraging, even after I lost out on some contracts. For my home that just sold, the seller, agent and attorneys on the other side were very difficult and Justyna had to work hard in the negotiation process. I was ready to give up, but Justyna never gave up and she will fight for you as her client. She's always friendly and professional and you will be happy that you chose her as your agent. Justyna went above and beyond what an agent does and I am very appreciative of her. You will be, too.
testimonials
JUSTICE, IL
sold
PLAINFIELD, il
PALOS HEIGHTS, IL
ST CHARLES, IL
Success Stories
SUMMIT, IL
RIVERSIDE, IL
I have represented sellers across the Chicagoland area. No matter where you live, I can help you navigate the process with my expert marketing plan and negotiation strategies.
HICKORY hILLS, IL
burbank, il
HOMETOWN, IL
BURBANK, IL
CHICAGO, IL