Frequently Asked Questions PAGE

Q: How can you offer all this for free? What's the catch?

A: This is the first question everyone asks, but the explanation is quite simple. Lakeshore4salebyowner.com is affiliated and financially supported by Lakeshore Mortgage Center. The Mortgage Center provides this service as a means of generating more awareness of its financing programs. Lakeshore Mortgage Center has found that by offering thisvalueable free service, they have the ability to help homebuyers obtain financing for their home. It is a win-win-win situation for everyone involved.

Q: Do I have to sign a contract?
A: No!

Q: Are you a realtor?

A: No, we are not affiliated or associated with any local or national real estate company.

Q: You say everything is free, but is there a charge (commission) if I sell my home?
A: There is no charge, commission, or fee of any kind.

Q How often am I charged?
A: Never

Q: How long does my listing stay up on the website?
A: It can stay listed on the website as long as you wish.

Q: Are there any guarantees that my house will sell if I list it on your site?
A: No. Anything you can do to increase exposure of your home is great, but there are no guarantees.

Q: I got disconnected before I could finish activate my ad! What now?
A: Just go through the process again. When you get a success message you'll know its in our database.

Q: I lost my account information, what should I do?
A: Don't worry, here is what you do. Click the Forgot Password or Forgot Username links under the login table in the upper right of our page. Follow the directions and your account information will be sent to you via email. You must use the same email address that you logged in with!

Q: Why should I buy or sell using the by owner method?
A: There are many reasons. Click here for reasons to sell by owner, or click here for reasons to buy a home direct from an owner.

Q: Is it necessary for me to hire an attorney in order to sell my own home?
A: In most cases a title company can handle every aspect of a real estate transaction. Lakeshore4salebyowner.com has an affiliation through Lakeshore Mortgage Center with local title companies which can be found here
However, many customers hire a real-estate lawyer to protect their interests throughout any real estate transaction. A lawyer can act as an escrow agent for down payments, evaluate any complicated offers from potential buyers and handle closings.
When selecting a lawyer, choose one that specializes in real estate transactions (and don’t be afraid to shop around for competitive rates). Search here for a list of local attorneys participating with Lakeshore4salebyowner.com.

Q: What is your success rate in regard to selling properties?
A: Because we’re not realtors (and don’t charge a commission) we are legally prohibited from taking part in the actual sales transaction of any of the properties advertised on our site, which makes it difficult for us to track how many of our properties sell and how quickly.
Attractive properties (good homes in good areas priced correctly) sell and unattractive ones don't. It's the same issue that realtors face. We can, however, guarantee that we will work diligently to insure that as many potential buyers as possible see your ad. And to this end, we spend thousands of dollars every month on advertising.
However, regardless of the property, in most markets, we have the same success rate as full commission realtors.

Q: How do I edit my ad and how often can I edit my ad?
A: Customers can edit their ads as often as they please.
The editing process is simple. If you are already logged in Click Here
Otherwise, log in and click on "Edit Account."

Q: Can you pre-approve me for my new home?
A: YES WE CAN. While you are under no obligation to use Lakeshore Mortgage Center they have access to wholesale rates and programs that aren't available to the general public. To get a pre-approved quote, or find out more, visit Lakeshore Mortgage Center Click Here. They can also pre-approve potential buyers looking at your home to make sure they will qualify. This helps avoid getting offers on your home from buyers that won't qualify.

Q: My home is not located on the Lakeshore, can I list on your site?
A: We only market to buyers looking to purchase a home in Lakeshore of West Michigan. Because of this, the majority of visitors to the site are looking to buy or sell a home on the Lakeshore. Please contact us if you think your situation might benefit even though it is not located in West Michigan Lakeshore.

Q: I want to list my home on your site, how do I get started?
A: First take five good photos of your home. 1 exterior and 4 interior shots. Then start by filling out the seller form here and upload the photos in the space provided. That's it. You will be able to view your ad online in 24-48 hours after it has been proofed by our staff.

Q: I have more questions that have not been answered here, how do I contact you?
A: To contact Lakeshore4salebyowner.com Click Here, or on the Homepage click the Contact Us Button, or call us at: (616) 218-2416.