Answers by Jessica Leopard

While buyers are drawn to the concept of a fixer-upper, the reality is that most lack the time and necessary funds. Therefore, they tend to favor move-in-ready homes or those updated within the last 5-10 years. Otherwise, they often move on. I've also noticed many buyers perceive older, outdated homes as unclean, and the lower price doesn't compensate when mortgages strain their budgets, preventing them from saving for updates in the future, and they spend their savings buying down the rate, moving expenses, and closing costs just to get into the home at a feasible monthly cost. Prices also have not been reflecting the amount of work actually needed so the buyers do not want to be upside down from the beginning.

Allow her to interview for the role. If you select a more qualified agent for this significant transaction, explain how she can be successful in the future by gaining experience through shadowing or other learning opportunities. Alternatively, inquire with experienced agents in her office about co-listing to provide her with learning opportunities while contributing a small percentage of the total service fee. It's essential for her to understand that having prior relationships doesn't guarantee a job; most clients prioritize experience. In real estate, you just do not know what you do not know until it is usually too late or at a cost.

I would never advise you to sell your home to "fast cash" type companies because of the lack of exposure your home gets. Only that company knows you are for sale, vs the entire city knowing you are for sale. The more people who know, the better the chance of getting more money and avoiding scams or being shorted. Always talk to a Real estate agent before committing to one of these. If you truly need "fast cash," an agent can get it for you, or at a minimum, tell you what your chances are of getting the same offer on the market. SOMETIMES, VERY RAREly, the fast cash people are worth it.

You can contact your city and let them know that someone is truly preventing your home from selling due to their lack of cleanliness. If it is a valid claim, the city will give them a notice to clean up in so many days, or they will clean up for them and put a lien on the home. You will need proof of the feedback, or the neighbor's yard will need to speak for itself.