June 11, 2017. Harper, Texas. The Sale.

We were told to expect the ranch to sell in 6 to 12 months.  And we were not thrilled with the system of marketing.  After all, using the multiple listing system successfully for over 30 years made me a believer but now we bought into the broker specialist program.  We were apprehensive.

But we did know a thing or two about selling property so Ken and I made decisions.  The broker gave us comps.  We selected the bottom os his range.  Overnight, I thought about the price of $849,000. and decided the price was too close to a million and we needed to have a 7 in the price.  I talked with Ken and to son David and we agreed on $799,000.  So the ranch went on the brokers web site last Tuesday.  On Wednesday we were told to expect a showing at 5:00.  Our broker came too,  even though the buyer had a buyer agent.  The agent and buyer came back in Thursday to drive the part of the ranch they had not seen with the broker.

An offer was registered on Friday morning and by dinner time, the contract was ratified.  We had a few counters but ultimately, I suggested to Ken that often the first offer turns out to be the best, so we accepted the buyers final offer.  The offer was an as is condition sale with no inspections.  And he is buying house and contents so we do not need to sell or move the furniture.  We excluded the art and books   Settlement is July 27.  David will attend.

Now here is the interesting part.  Our broker automatically sends via the internet his new listings to every agent who has inquired or shown one of his listings.  And this purchaser told his agent to only show me properties under $800,000.  So the brokers system did work and my hunch about price was correct.  Now we can get along with our life although folks have suggested that we priced it too low.  But we are happy.  Our ranch is under contract.