We've all heard a lot about the current real estate market and truthfully it isn't pleasant. However, people still need to sell their houses in this market. So, what does it take?
In this market as in any market there are three things that sell a home...location, condition and price. If any one of these three are not in place, the difference will have to be made up somewhere else all with their own level of control over them.
Location: it is not realistic (or cost effective) to move a house in most cases to a more desirable location...not much control.
Condition: It is amazing what a little paint or some good staging will do for the marketability of a house. Paying someone, if you must, to trim the bushes or mow the lawn will go a long way. When selling, think "minimalist". Clear out the clutter and extra furniture, pictures and such to make the house look bigger and brighter. Level of control: medium.
Price: This is where some people take the big "gulp" when I mention it. The fact is that in most cases, this is where you have the most control. We would all like to get top dollar for our houses however; your idea of top dollar may not be the same top dollar that the market will allow. The bright side is, if you are selling in this market and plan to purchase in the same area, the house you purchase will probably be at a lower price. It is kind of "the equalizer".
Bottom line is, if you need to sell your home and if the setting is nice, the house is updated, fresh and uncluttered and if you keep it at a realistic price you will do well in this and any market.
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