Clean up. Fix up. Throw out! Buying a home is not a logical decision, but an emotional one. When people walk in your home and it doesn't "feel" right, they are done. They don't get a warm fuzzy feeling if there is too much stuff - stuff can be anything from toys and trash everywhere, to personal collections that overwhelm the living space. Also, as much as Home Depot and Lowe's would like to convince you that people LOVE painting and fixing up, they don't. 80% of today's home buyers are Gen X and Y. When they are not working, they will be socializing and having fun, not working on the house. If you don't want to get everything in top shape, expect to sell at a significant discount.
Let it Show, Let it Show, Let it Show. No seller can afford to miss a showing. Once again, home buying is not logical. When the buyer sees the place that feels right, they will buy it. The goal of the buyer's agents is to sell them a house that day. If you refuse a showing, the buyer’s agent won't care - just one less place for them to show. Never refuse a showing.
If You Smell 'em, You Can't Sell 'em! Top Offenders: cigarette/cigar smoke, cat litter, dog odors and food odors from cooking. The flip side of the odor problem is home fragrances that are too strong. Go easy with the candles and plug-ins.
"I Don't Have to Sell". When I hear this from a seller it translates to: "I will not negotiate on my price". (Emotions again) In this market, sellers should be prepared to negotiate. Things are better, but it's still a tough market. To get an offer, your home has to be squeaky clean and in top shape. Then, the buyer will still make an offer that tests the waters. It is nothing personal against you or your home. (hey, they like your home- they want to buy it!) You want to sell high, they want to buy low. NEVER reject any offer your receive. It may very well be the only offer you receive. Your real estate agent can best guide you in this area, but ALWAYS throw the ball back over the net- make a counter offer back to the buyer. Counter offers are not just about the purchase price. Find out what is important to the buyer. Do they need more time to close? Closing costs? Maybe they need the washer and dryer. If you keep the lines of communication open, often times, you will reach an agreement that will be win/win for both parties.
Price It Right When The Sign Goes In The Yard. A natural concern for sellers is that they will price too low and leave money on the table. Once your real estate agent shows you the comparable sales in the area, you should have a good idea of a realistic marketable range. If your price is competitive, you will receive an offer in the first 4 weeks. If you don't receive an offer after 5 - 6 showings, you will know you are not competing well. Could be property condition, bad neighbors, etc. but usually, it's the price. If you want to sell, stay within the market range indicated by the comparable sales. True, you can come down on your price later, but by that time you may be "market worn" - destined to get super low offers. The longer your home is on the market, the lower the offers. To sell your house fast, for the best price, with the least amount of inconvenience, price it right when the sign goes in the yard.
If you are thinking of selling your home and have questions, please call me for a no cost, no obligation, confidential consultation. 270-903-2167
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