RESIDENTIAL SELLER TIPS
Make Updates If You Can and Deep Clean
Fresh paint, new flooring and new lighting can make a huge difference in any part of the house. To get the most value for your money, think about how you can update the kitchen and bathrooms. Even just a new coat of paint will make a difference! Consider new faucet hardware or replacing any old kitchen appliances, as these areas are where many Buyers often focus. If updates are out of the question, be sure to clean and declutter your entire house, including closets and your garage. Go ahead and box up items for storage, even though you aren’t moving just yet. I suggest allowing 1 to 2 weeks for deep cleaning and storing away items.
Have a Realistic Timeline
After decluttering and putting away as much as possible in storage, depersonalize your space. Try to style it neutrally so that it appeals to a broad range of buyers so that they can imagine themselves living there. Make time for staging with your real estate agent, or hire a professional. The staging process can take anywhere from 2 to 5 days. Allow 1-3 days for taking professional pictures and choosing the best photos.
Have a Plan for Where You Will Move
Start preparing for your move as soon as you put your home on the market. You want to start your property research early so that you can ensure that you have a place to go after closing. If you find yourself with no place to move your belongings, you can work with your agent to make sure the closing period is longer.
Use Skilled Professionals
When looking for a real estate agent, you are going to want someone that you can rely on to walk you through a process that can sometimes be tough and emotional. The best place to start in your search is to get a personal referral from someone that you trust. If this is not an option for you, you can ask for references. A good real estate agent will be knowledgeable, efficient, and thorough. They will advise Buyers to ask for a home inspection and do a final-walk-through to be sure all repairs have been completed. An agent that is designated as GRI and/or a REALTOR® member has taken the time to do additional education and is held to a higher code of ethics.
A strong online presence on social media is important as well. According to the National Association of Realtors, over 90% of new buyers begin their home search online. Also, if you are using a lawyer and not an agent, remember to make sure the Seller signs a Disclosure form! This will give you legal recourse after closing, if needed. Lastly, a good agent will be easily reachable for you.
Price Correctly
Price your home correctly by carefully studying the local recent comparables with your real estate agent. This should include recent sales in your community as well as listings that have expired from the Multiple Listing Service. It is also important to price your home based on condition and not overestimate its value. Keep in mind that the best measure of value is Sold listings and that Active listings demonstrate supply and competition. Withdrawn or Expired listings usually demonstrate an overpriced listing. These suggestions should help prevent your home from sitting on the market too long.
Focus on Curb Appeal
Maximize your house’s curb appeal! Evaluate your property by walking to your own curb and asking yourself if your home would be inviting to all types of Buyers. Pay attention to your landscape by trimming overgrown shrubs, adding mulch and annuals, repainting the front door, adding a new door mat and potted plants and consider updating new porch lighting.
Fix Potential Inspection Problems
It is wise to address any major problems that might come up during inspections, such as roof leaks, cracked windows, foundation repair quotes, etc. Some Sellers will even get an inspection done to see what they can repair beforehand and present that in their listing. You can usually expect to get an inspector scheduled within a few days.
Keep Pets Away From Showings
It is strongly suggested to take your pet to a friend’s home or pet-boarding place during showings. At the very least, kennel your pet. It is safer for your pet for him or her to be gone. Cats have been known to run out the door. It is a good idea to put away toys and bowls and air-out the home to get rid of any pet smells.
Time It Right
So many Buyers start looking for a new home in the Spring, which makes it a great season to put your house on the market. If you are able to list in March through May or even June, you will attract more potential buyers simply because more people are often looking to buy in that time. Your curb appeal can be really nice in this season as well.
Answer These Questions
In addition, a good agent will ask you similar questions to these below:
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Why are you moving?
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How soon do you need to move?
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Do you anticipate any major challenges with selling your home?
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What is your favorite feature of this house?
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What do you like about your neighborhood?
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What are some nearby attractions and amenities?