Does Installing Solar Panels Help Sell My Home?

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Q & A with Dottie Herman

Question: Does installing solar panels add any value to my home for resale purposes?

ANSWER: Depending on your home's heating and air conditioning systems, solar panels may add value to your home. It is best to consult an expert in this area. Central Air conditioning is usually a plus, but often additions such as panels require major up-keep and added expenses.

Question: I have seen a few new listings in my neighborhood. My husband I were going to wait until spring to list our house as we were told that is the best time of year. Is it better to get a head start and list now since the weather in New Jersey isn't horrible? We were always under the impression that people with children look in the spring to be in for the next school year. We live in a young neighborhood and don't want the listing to appear as old either. What is the best strategy?

ANSWER: It depends. If you live in an area where there is a lack of inventory on the market, it is generally better to list your home sooner rather than later. In addition, if buyers are financing, the process to obtain a mortgage and the required paperwork does take time, and it is generally best to get those buyers in early.

Question: We are coming from out-of-town to NYC. We travel a lot for business and were thinking we should rent/buy a place in NYC. How do we decide which method is right for us and where do we even begin looking? We don't know much about many of the neighborhoods and which ones are more family oriented, etc.

ANSWER: A way to get to know the various neighborhoods in New York City is to start on-line and get overviews of various parts of the city and the real estate price points of apartments for sale and for rent in each neighborhood.  As you come to the city for business, you may, for example, want to choose a neighborhood in close proximity to your business.  Working with a knowledgeable real estate professional should be helpful in assisting you to narrow down your parameters and work within your budget.

Question: There are a few RE companies in my area. There is one that has most of the listings, but I have heard that sometimes they have less time to focus on each listing. There is a smaller company with less inventory. What are the pros and cons of listing with big vs small?

ANSWER: Choosing a real estate professional is generally based on several factors, among them product knowledge and track record in sales. In addition, and important, is your rapport with the agent who will be representing your property and their fulfilling the expectations you set for them. It is best to personally interview several agents so that you can make the most informed decision possible.