THE LISTING PROCESS
Step 1: Consider the Timing
When selling your home, timing is a huge factor. It is important to do some research on when it is the best time to list a house in your area and when buyers tend to be the most motivated. It is also a good idea to scope out the competition in your neighborhood or residence. People will flock to see your house if you have originality on your side. At any given time, there are only a certain number of buyers looking for the kind of house you are selling. Timing obviously comes into play with the current state of the real estate market. Ask the question, “What’s happening in the market, today?” Interest rates and consumer confidence will affect prices, however, don’t be discouraged if it isn’t looking like the best time to sell. As in any market, things will be constantly changing. The last aspect of timing that may trump any of the above points, is your personal needs. If you have already bought a new house, or are expanding your family, these could dictate your timing in a more urgent manner.
Step 2: Be Prepared
To be prepared, you should first understand and be able to explain the reason you are selling your home. This is believed to be the most important factor in developing a marketing strategy. Many homeowners find it helpful to obtain an appraisal for their home prior to placing it on the market. A pre-appraisal is not required, but is often suggested by a realtor if there is a limited number of homes sold within the last three to six months, or especially in areas where your home is not in a “cookie-cutter” community. An appraisal will ensure a home is not over or under priced and would help in a negotiating process if a low offer were submitted. Next on the list to consider is a pre-inspection. A home inspection can be requested by the seller and is completely optional, but highly recommended. It could assist in selling your home faster, and gets you one step ahead of the buyer. Don’t forget to make an extra set of keys to leave in a lockbox at your house for your real estate agent to utilize for showings. Lastly, gather your documents such as a survery, heating, electrical, utility, and tax bills. Your agent will also be likely to ask for warranties and manual.
Step 3: Pricing Your Home
The first thing that buyers notice about your property is the price. A common mistake is pricing too high, which can turn off buyers from the beginning before they even consider anything else. With a high price, potential buyers seem to find all the flaws. Additionally, when a price is set at or below market, buyers tend to feel more comfortable making an offer. Finding just the right price is key to selling your home. HINT: Many of the things mentioned above can assist in determining this. The different aspects of pricing can be discussed with your realtor, but here is a short list to put in your brain.
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*Triangle Realty EXCEEDS EXPECTATIONS by researching all of the above for you by running a comparitive market analysis on your property. |
PREPPING THE HOME
Step 1: De-Personalize and De-Clutter
Once the prepping of your home starts, it is vital to let go of your personal attachments and begin considering how to make your home a marketable product that will appeal to a buyer. Now is the time to pack up your family photos, and heirlooms as they can distract a buyer from the true package. The buyer needs to be able to envision their own family living here. Clutter is a no-no when showing a home. Put up the things you aren’t currently using and get ahead on storing items as soon as possible. Almost any home shows better with less furniture. You want the buyer to picture their own taste and style when browsing. Large pieces of furniture can also make a room appear smaller than it is. Leave just enough furniture in each room to showcase the purpose of the room with plenty of space to move throughout. You’ll also want to consider these things:
- Neatly arrange all items and organize closets and cabinets
- Clean off kitchen and bathroom countertops
- Pack up all non-essential items such as clothing
Step 2: Remove or Replace
If you want to take built-in appliances or fixtures, remove them before the showing. If a buyer never sees them, they won’t want them. Pack the items, and replace what is necessary. Here are some other things to put on your to-do list:
- Patch and paint cracks and holes in walls
- Fix any leaks on faucets or elsewhere
- Repair any doors or drawers that do not close properly
- You may consider painting the walls a neutral color to freshen things up, especially if you have flashy colors
- Replace burned out light bulbs
Step 3: Make it Sparkle
A polished appearance will go a long way. The goal is to give the buyer the best impression possible. The key is in the small details. Don’t forget these details when prepping your home:
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Step 4: Curb Appeal
It’s not always what’s on the inside that counts. The appearance of the home from the curb can make or break a sale. The customer should instantly fall in love with your home as soon as they drive up. Here’s some tips to achieving the ideal curb appeal:
- Pressure wash and spray down sidewalks and house exterior
- Mow the lawn, rake leaves, trim bushes and mulch flowerbeds
- Paint any faded or chipped trim
- Plant flowers or add some potted plants. Freshen up your garden
- Make sure your house number is visible from the street
Step 5: Final Touches
One last check should wrap up your steps to prepping your home! Make sure you examine how the furniture is arranged and that it makes sense with the layout of the room. Ask yourself these questions: “Does each room seem to leave a positive impact?” “Is my property sparsely decorated, properly organized, and thoroughly cleaned?” If you answered yes, then you’re ready to put your home on the market!