This home has unique features. Built in 1958, only one family owned it so it was maintained and not 'renovated' in the 70's when a lot of shortcuts were taken. The wall and ceiling are Florida cypress and the floors are the high end terrazo marble.
I looked at CMA's from three realtors, studied the listings and solds on HotPads, Trulia, Zillow and Realtor.com to come up with the list price for the home, taking into consideration the location, the need for updates and a for sale by owner position. I priced the property to sell and possibly get multiple offers, which it did. I listed the property on HotPads, Trulia and Zillow eight days before the first appointment would be scheduled. I had two appointments within 24 hours. We passed out 100 invitations to the neighbors for a wine & cheese gathering that was very successful. Every agent knows that the neighbors are curious and will be the first one to show up at a public open house - why not entertain them for a couple of hours? During this gathering, I was negotiating with four buyers. Within a week, I spoke with 35 buyers, showed the house to 10 and negotiated with 5 going into contract in 12 days with a backup contract. This doesn't count the buyers that came through agents, who I also contacted to notify them of the listing.
It really is all about price. Doing the research took time and was well worth it. I also had wonderful cooperation from the family in Florida. Once the decision was made that I would come down to Florida (I live in New York) they went to work emptying the house and having it professionally cleaned. Painting was done in key areas and all the utilities and appliances worked, including the central a/c.
At the end of the day, you need to have all the pieces in place, exposure wherever you can, price it right and when a potential buyer walks in and can imagine living in the home with their family, you have done everything right.
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