Let's face it, today's economy can send everyone running. The news media is all doom and gloom and buyers are holding off for fear of not being able to get financing to purchase their new home. So as a seller, what does this mean to you??

First, when selling your home it is important that you are realistic about your pricing. I have worked with a few clients over the past few weeks, and due to job relocations, had to price their home at a lower price than they purchased it a few years ago. This all in the beginning of the transaction. They already came out of the gate behind. Does that hurt? Absolutely! But what is your alternative?

Holding out waiting for a higher offer or MOVE ON? I advise you to MOVE ON! If your are relocating and do not want the burden of two mortgages then you must negotiate a price that is pleasing to the buyer and acceptable to you.

Then you MUST work with an experienced realtor. THIS IS HUGE in today's market.  Listen to their advice about preparing your home for sale. Don't be offended by the fact that they bring in a professional home stager for expert advice on preparing your home for sale. They are working together to help you SELL YOUR HOUSE!

Preapprove that buyer! Years ago it was easy for anyone to get a pre-approval. The process took about 15 minutes, if that, but it is NOT UNTIL other documents are looked at more carefully that the actual mortgage commitment or NOT is approved. The worst thing that can happen to you is to receive an offer, accept it and then wait 2 months only to find out the buyer cannot get a loan. NOW WHAT? You start the process all over again and then watch falling numbers day by day. So be wise and listen to your realtor. One person may present a higher offer but not be as qualified as the buyer who presented a few thousand less. Don't be mesmerized by numbers alone.

Should you still invest in HOME STAGING? ABSOLUTELY!!  Just because the economy is struggling, there are STILL GOING TO BE BUYERS looking for a home. Make sure yours stands out from the rest! A minimal investment for accessories and lots of elbow grease can go a very long way to make that great FIRST IMPRESSION.

So if you are selling in today's market, don't give up. Be wise, hire an experienced realtor and make the investment to have your home PROFESSIONALLY STAGED! 

For more information contact Phyllis Pafumi, Owner of ReStyled to Sell Home Staging NJ at 732-995-3425