As we all know and have seen over the last few months – there has been a real shift in the housing market. So, if you are thinking about selling your home now, you may be wondering if there is anything you should do differently, in light of this shifting market? What I will say is this … as a seller, we just need to get “back to the basics” as we had in the past. Take the time to prepare your home so it out-shines your competition – making wise choices (saving you time and money) along the way, that will gain you the best return on your investment.
Here are a couple of simple tips and suggestions that will maximize your return on investment …
Price It Right
I cannot stress enough how pricing your home correctly in any market is so important. Some sellers will say … “Let’s try a higher price and see.” That strategy doesn’t work necessarily – and here are just a few reasons why.
- Buyers are much more educated than ever before
- If your home is not “priced right” – you will not have the right buyers looking at your home to make their offer – higher price equals higher expectations.
- If you price your home too high at the end of the day – you will see price reductions, only taking more time to net you less than if you were to have priced it right from the get-go.
- You also do not want to price your house too low – possibly leaving money on the table.
Speaking to a trusted real estate advisor will give you the information you need to determine what the fair market value of your home is in today’s market, discussing market strategies that will position your home in the market that can ultimately gain the most value in your sale.
When its “Showtime”
First impressions do matter …
Having a “To Do List” – of all that you will want to do prior to placing your home on the market is key. Decluttering is TOP on the list, along with fixing any minor repairs that may have been put off and/or needed, deep cleaning, perhaps some painting may be in order … a can of paint can go a long way at making your home shine bright! Perhaps staging your home may be in order … there are varying degrees of staging from just taking down family photos and personal items – to furniture placement, to adding some accessories to give your home the extra pop, to some extensive staging when and if needed. You want the buyer to imagine themselves living in the home – not looking at “who lives in the home.” These are all things you will want to discuss with your realtor prior to placing the home on the market to see what, if anything he/she feels necessary to do to gain the most value in your home sale.
Lastly, look at your home through a buyer’s eyes to see what they will see – starting at the front door. Curb appeal matters – if your home appears well kept and welcoming as the buyers do their “drive-by” and they do … there’s a good chance they will want to schedule a showing with their realtor to see what the home has to offer on the inside. When you are ready … Lights on, curtains drawn … it’s showtime!!
For more information, tips, and strategies – feel free to contact me … I am here to help!
Laura
Helping buyers & sellers achieve their real estate goals
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