🏠 200 Real Estate Questions & Answers for Indiana Home Sellers

Selling your Indiana home can be one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make. Whether it’s a lake house in Kosciusko County, a Fort Wayne bungalow, or farmland in Whitley County — these 200 questions and answers will guide you through pricing, listing, negotiation, and closing with confidence.

1️⃣ Preparing to Sell (Q1–Q25)

When is the best time to sell a home in Indiana?
Spring (March–May) is prime, but serious buyers exist year-round.
Can I sell during winter?
Yes — with less competition and motivated buyers.
What’s the average time to sell in Indiana?
20–30 days on market statewide, slightly longer in rural areas.
What should I do first before listing?
Declutter, deep clean, and make small repairs.
Should I paint before selling?
Yes — neutral colors make rooms appear larger and brighter.
Does curb appeal really matter?
Absolutely — it sets the tone before buyers walk in.
What updates give the best return?
Kitchen, bathrooms, flooring, and landscaping.
Should I fix everything?
No — focus on items that affect safety or first impressions.
Is staging worth it?
Yes — staged homes sell up to 25% faster in Indiana markets.
Can I live in the home while it’s listed?
Yes — but keep it clean and ready for showings.
Should I remove personal photos?
Yes — helps buyers visualize themselves in your home.
Do I need to disclose issues?
Yes — Indiana law requires the Seller’s Disclosure Form.
Can I sell “as-is”?
Yes, but you must still disclose known defects.
Should I get a pre-listing inspection?
Helpful for older homes — avoids surprises later.
What’s the average cost to prep a home for sale?
Usually $1,000–$3,000 depending on repairs.
Can I skip staging and use virtual staging?
Yes — it’s affordable and looks great online.
Should I replace carpet or offer a credit?
If stained or worn, replace it. Otherwise, credit works.
How clean should it be for photos?
Picture-perfect — spotless homes attract top offers.
Do odors affect saleability?
Yes — eliminate pet and smoke odors before listing.
Should I update light fixtures?
Yes — modern lighting makes big visual impact.
How important are appliances?
Buyers expect clean, working appliances in most markets.
Do small repairs matter?
Yes — minor flaws can make buyers question maintenance.
Should I hire a handyman before listing?
Yes — quick fixes pay off during showings.
Can I sell a home with tenants?
Yes — but it’s easier after they move out.
Do I need professional photos?
Absolutely — listings with pro photos sell faster and for more.

2️⃣ Pricing & Market Strategy (Q26–Q50)

How do I determine my home’s value?
Through a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) by a Realtor.
Should I use Zillow’s Zestimate?
As a reference only — it often misses local nuances.
Can I price high and lower later?
Risky — first impressions are critical.
Do price reductions hurt my sale?
Frequent drops can signal desperation.
How do appraisals affect sales?
Buyers can’t finance above appraised value.
What’s “days on market” and why does it matter?
It tracks how long you’ve been listed — long listings lose urgency.
How much does overpricing cost me?
Potentially thousands — overpriced homes sit longer and sell for less.
Should I underprice to start a bidding war?
In hot markets, it can work well.
Do I pay for the buyer’s appraisal?
No — that’s the buyer’s expense.
Do I need an appraisal before listing?
Not required, but helpful for unique properties.
What if appraised value is low?
You can renegotiate, challenge, or let buyer cover gap.
Can I sell below appraisal?
Yes — your decision.
Do upgrades always increase value?
Only if in line with neighborhood standards.
What’s the average price per square foot in NE Indiana?
Around $150–$170 depending on area and age.
How fast are homes selling in Fort Wayne?
Under 25 days for move-in ready properties.
Can location affect pricing that much?
Yes — school districts and commute times matter.
How do rising interest rates affect me?
They may reduce buyer pool; price competitively.
Do rural homes appraise differently?
Yes — appraisers use larger radius for comparables.
Can a Realtor overprice to win a listing?
Sometimes — get multiple opinions.
Should I price based on what I owe?
No — price by market, not mortgage balance.
What happens if multiple offers come in?
Your agent will help evaluate best overall terms.
Should I take the highest offer?
Not always — financing, timing, and contingencies count too.
Can I reject an offer?
Yes — until one meets your terms.
Can I adjust price after listing?
Yes — easily changed in MLS.
How often should I review my pricing strategy?
Every 2–3 weeks based on showing activity.

3️⃣ Marketing & Showings (Q51–Q75)

What’s the best way to market a home in Indiana?
MLS listing, pro photos, social media, and yard signage.
Do open houses still work?
Yes — especially on weekends and in busy neighborhoods.
Should I use video tours?
Yes — great for out-of-state buyers.
Are drone photos helpful?
Absolutely for large lots and lakefront homes.
Can I advertise on Facebook or Instagram?
Yes — social media draws significant traffic.
Can I show my own home without my agent?
It’s allowed but not recommended.
Do I need to leave during showings?
Yes — buyers need privacy to look around.
What if I work from home?
Schedule showings in blocks or after hours.
Should I allow short-notice showings?
Yes — flexibility means more opportunities.
How should I prepare for a last-minute showing?
Keep lights on, counters clear, and house smelling fresh.
Do I need to hide valuables?
Yes — store jewelry, prescriptions, and personal items securely.
Are cameras allowed during showings?
Yes, but you must disclose if they record audio.
Should pets be present during showings?
No — remove them if possible.
How many showings before an offer?
Typically 8–12 in a healthy market.
Do I need to disclose cameras to buyers?
Yes — state law requires disclosure if recording.
How long should showings last?
Usually 15–45 minutes.
Can buyers take photos during showings?
Only with your consent.
Should I provide a feature sheet?
Yes — highlight upgrades, taxes, and HOA info.
Do “coming soon” listings help?
Yes — they build early buzz.
Should I update photos seasonally?
Yes — especially if listing extends several months.
Can I post my own ads online?
Yes — complement your Realtor’s marketing.
What are virtual open houses?
Online tours that attract remote buyers.
Should I keep utilities on?
Yes — lights and climate matter for showings.
What’s the best day to list?
Thursdays and Fridays statistically perform best.
Do weekend showings attract serious buyers?
Yes — most closings start from weekend visits.

4️⃣ Offers & Negotiation (Q76–Q110)

How will I know an offer is serious?
Pre-approval letter and earnest money deposit confirm that.
Can I counteroffer?
Yes — you can change price, possession, or terms.
Can I counter multiple buyers at once?
No — choose one to negotiate with first.
Should I accept cash offers?
Often yes — they close faster and with fewer contingencies.
Are FHA/VA buyers harder to work with?
Slightly — stricter property standards.
Can I decline FHA or VA offers?
Yes — based on terms, not buyer type.
What’s earnest money?
Buyer deposit showing commitment (1–2% typical).
Who holds earnest money?
Title company or brokerage trust account.
Can I keep earnest money if buyer backs out?
Only if they default outside contingencies.
What if multiple offers arrive?
Compare price, financing, and contingencies — not just price.
What’s an escalation clause?
Buyer’s automatic price increase to beat other offers.
Can I disclose other offers?
Only with buyer consent — otherwise keep private.
Should I consider closing date flexibility?
Yes — accommodating buyers can seal the deal.
Can I ask for proof of funds?
Always — especially with cash buyers.
Can I refuse to make repairs?
Yes, but buyer may walk away.
What’s an inspection response?
Buyer’s list of requested fixes or credits.
Should I repair or offer credit?
Credit is often easier and faster.
What are common inspection repairs?
Roof leaks, plumbing issues, or electrical hazards.
Do I have to fix cosmetic issues?
No — only safety or structural concerns for FHA/VA.
Can a deal fall through after inspection?
Yes — if parties can’t agree on repairs.
Can buyer renegotiate price after appraisal?
Yes if value comes in low.
Should I accept backup offers?
Always a good idea in case first deal fails.
Can I accept a better offer after signing?
No — once under contract, you’re bound.
What happens if buyer’s loan falls through?
You may retain earnest money or relist.
Can I change my mind after accepting?
Only if buyer breaches contract.
How long until closing after acceptance?
30–45 days typical in Indiana.
Should I disclose pending offers to others?
No — only mark “contingent” in MLS.
Can buyer move in early?
Only with written pre-possession agreement.
Should I allow early possession?
Only with security deposit and proof of insurance.
Can buyer request personal property?
Yes — list separately on contract.
Can buyer’s lender require repairs?
Yes — for FHA/VA appraisals.
Do I pay both agents’ commissions?
Typically yes — split between listing and buyer’s agent.
Are commissions negotiable?
Always.
What’s average commission rate?
Around 6% total, negotiable by broker.
Do I pay closing costs?
Seller covers title insurance, taxes, and commissions; buyer covers loan fees.

5️⃣ Closing & Legal Details (Q111–Q150)

Where does closing occur?
Usually at title company’s office or remotely.
Who prepares documents?
Title company and lender.
Do I need a lawyer?
Optional but recommended for estates or divorce sales.
Can I sign electronically?
Yes — e-signatures are legal in Indiana.
When do I hand over keys?
After funds disburse and deed records.
How are property taxes handled?
Prorated through closing.
Can I close if out of state?
Yes — remote notary options exist.
What is title insurance for?
Protects buyer and lender from ownership disputes.
Who pays for title insurance?
Seller pays owner’s policy; buyer pays lender’s policy.
Do I have to attend closing?
No — remote signings available.
When will I receive proceeds?
Within 24–48 hours after recording.
Can proceeds be wired?
Yes — safest method.
Are wire transfers taxable?
No — only profits are taxable.
Will I get a tax form?
Yes — IRS Form 1099-S reports sale proceeds.
Do I pay capital gains tax?
Not if lived there 2 of last 5 years and gain < $250K/$500K (joint).
What if sale profit exceeds limits?
You’ll owe capital gains on excess.
Can I defer taxes?
Yes — only on investment property via 1031 Exchange.
Can I sell during divorce?
Yes — proceeds divided per court decree.
How are estate sales handled?
By executor with court or title approval.
Do liens affect closing?
Yes — they must be paid off.
What if unpaid utilities exist?
They’re prorated or settled at closing.
Should I cancel insurance early?
No — wait until recording confirmed.
Can I stay after closing?
Yes — with a written post-possession addendum.
Who pays for post-possession utilities?
Seller during occupancy period.
Should I clean before closing?
Yes — leave broom-clean at minimum.
What if buyer damages home during final walkthrough?
Report to title/agent; delay funding if unresolved.
Can I pay off mortgage at closing?
Yes — title company handles payoff.
Can I sell a home with two mortgages?
Yes — both paid from sale proceeds.
What if payoff exceeds sale price?
You must bring funds to closing.
What is a short sale?
Selling for less than owed with lender approval.
Can I sell a home in foreclosure?
Yes — until sheriff’s sale date.
How long do Indiana closings take?
30–45 days for financed deals, 10–14 for cash.
What happens if closing is delayed?
Sign an extension agreement.
Can buyer walk away last minute?
Only within valid contingencies.
What if buyer’s financing falls through?
Earnest money may go to seller.
Who handles the deed transfer?
The title company files it with the county.
Should I get a copy of closing docs?
Yes — keep for tax and record purposes.
When does buyer’s insurance begin?
At closing.
Do I pay property taxes again after closing?
No — your portion ends at prorated date.
Should I keep records of improvements?
Yes — they reduce future capital gains.

6️⃣ After the Sale (Q151–Q200)

How soon can I buy again?
Immediately if financially ready.
Should I rent or buy next?
Depends on timing, location, and finances.
Do I need to notify my lender?
No — payoff sent directly at closing.
When do I cancel utilities?
After closing and possession transfer.
Can I transfer utilities to buyer?
No — they must set up new accounts.
Can I forward my mail early?
Yes — schedule with USPS online.
When will property show new owner online?
Within 30 days after recording.
Can I sell another property right away?
Yes — no waiting period.
What should I do with my escrow refund?
Use toward next property or savings.
Will I get refund from insurance company?
Yes — unused premium refunded after cancellation.
Can I deduct moving expenses?
Only for qualified job relocations.
Do I need to file anything with county?
Title company records deed automatically.
Should I tell HOA about sale?
Yes — provide buyer info for billing.
Do HOAs charge transfer fees?
Often $100–$300.
What happens to my mortgage escrow?
Lender refunds balance in 2–3 weeks.
Should I notify property tax office?
Optional — buyer’s title handles it.
Can I reinvest proceeds in another state?
Yes — no restrictions.
Can I still access records later?
Yes — ask title company for digital copies.
Should I update insurance agent about move?
Yes — adjust or cancel homeowner’s policy.
What if I sold below market value?
Possible deductible capital loss on investment property.
Do I owe taxes if I break even?
No — only on gains.
Can I gift my house to family instead of selling?
Yes — file a gift-tax return if value exceeds federal limit.
Can I sell inherited property?
Yes — basis is stepped-up to date-of-death value.
Can I sell with outstanding medical liens?
Yes — liens must be paid from proceeds.
Are moving company costs deductible?
Only for military relocations.
Can I sell property in a trust?
Yes — trustee signs documents.
Do I need new appraisal for tax purposes?
Recommended if large gain expected.
Can I still claim homestead after selling?
No — only on your primary residence.
Do I pay state taxes on sale?
Indiana follows federal capital gains rules.
Should I keep records for future?
Yes — at least seven years.
What’s a seller’s affidavit?
Document confirming you own and can sell property.
What if buyer sues post-closing?
Contact your agent and attorney; disclosure protects you.
Do buyers ever sue over undisclosed defects?
Rare but possible — honesty avoids it.
Can I leave leftover paint or supplies?
Yes — many buyers appreciate it.
Should I leave appliances?
If agreed in contract, yes.
Do I need to change address with county treasurer?
Yes if you still own other property.
Can I rent the home back without paying?
No — rent-back agreements include daily rate.
Who covers damages discovered after sale?
Buyer’s responsibility unless concealed fraud proven.
Should I follow up after sale?
Yes — thank buyers and collect contact info for mail.
When does listing agent get paid?
At closing, from sale proceeds.
Do I tip movers?
Yes — typically $20–$50 per mover.
Can I reuse old home photos for marketing another?
Yes — update captions and copyright if pro photographer.
What happens to my MLS listing after sale?
Marked “sold” for record.
Should I leave manuals and warranties?
Yes — buyers will appreciate it.
Can I take landscaping?
Only if excluded in contract.
Can I cancel sale if better offer comes after?
No — once signed, it’s binding.
When can I celebrate?
After closing funds are disbursed!
What’s the biggest seller mistake?
Overpricing and ignoring first feedback.
What makes a home sell fastest?
Great photos, realistic price, clean condition.
What’s the most important thing to remember?
The best offer isn’t always the highest — it’s the one that closes smoothly.

200 Q & A’s for Sellers – 2025