Facts About Selling Your Home
1. If you don't price it right, you could be in for a long wait. Your best chance is in the first six weeks.
There is a saying in the real estate market that "your first offer is usually your best offer". It seems to me that its really true. Consider the following. Not long ago I represented some buyers looking for a estate property. We found a suitable property, had it inspected, did market comps. on it, and made an offer of $750,000. The seller wanted close to $795,000 and would only drop the price $20,000. My buyers felt that was an unfair price and decided to seek other properties. I recently saw the same property listed at $735,000. Buyers that are qualified particularly for above median price housing become scarcer as the price rises. By the time you get above $400,000 in our market, you will be lucky to get 4 or 5 qualified buyers to look at your property, let alone make an offer.
2. Getting buyers can be hard enough. Don't let them get turned off by dirt or unpleasant odors.
A. If your pets leaves odors....you need to move the pet outside or to a confided area.
B. Get rid of junk - it distracts from true home features.
C. If you smoke, do it outside and do everything possible to eliminate the odor inside. I've had buyers actually step inside a house and right back out as soon as they smelled smoke.
D. Vacuum before showing if possible.
3. Make sure that the MLS lock is readily available for showing agents.
Other Nice Touches
A. Turn all lights on.
B. Open blinds and drapes.
C. Soft music is often helpful.
D. Provide your realtor with utility bills for the past year.
4. If your home needs painting, pick light neutral colors. A new coat of paint can also help hide odors from smoke or pets. In short, it's a good investment.
5. Landscape is important. Plant colorful flowers if in season, trim shrubs and mow the lawn. Buyers frequently equate curb appeal with desirability.