It’s the summer selling season! I’ve got 4 listings coming to market in the next few days with more in the pipeline. Here is a sample of some of the things I discuss with my clients when they are ready to sell their homes.
- Disclose everything and repair anything that is broken. Such repairs can include electrical issues, water damage, rotten or chipped flooring, pet damage or a leaky roof. Consider getting a pre-inspection to uncover necessary repairs. It’s easier to schedule repairs before your house is on the market than in the heat of the due diligence process.
- Price your home competitively. Buyers are looking at the same statistics you are. They know if you are priced 10% above the house that just sold next door. Even in today’s market of low inventory, homes that are not priced competitively are sitting on the market.
- Do not talk to buyers about your home even if you know them. Let your agent do his or her job. The last thing you want to do is sabotage the process. Any information provided to buyers can and will be used against you during the negotiation process.
- Market Preparation is essential. Unless there is a renter inside the home, I always prepare my listings for photographs and showings using experienced professionals. Market preparation is different than staging. In today’s market, your first showing is online. Your home must look great in photos before buyers will want to schedule showings.
- Understand that showings are like market research for the value of your home. It doesn’t matter what you, your agent or your best friend think your home is worth. If you have lots of showings with legitimate buyers and no offers, then you must strategize with your agent to adjust the price, presentation or both.