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Home Selling

It's been said that the only thing in real estate that is more confusing than purchasing a home is selling one – especially if you've never done it before. Where to start? Who to turn to?


These are good questions and – lucky you – the answers are right here within the pages of ActiveRain, the top real estate social network on the planet.


Within our content library you'll find more millions of articles, written by the pros, on home selling topics like how to choose a listing agent, the questions to ask before hiring one, how to stage the home and create curb appeal. What happens if the appraisal comes in lower than the amount the buyer has offered? Is an offer from a buyer with a conventional loan approval better than one from an FHA buyer?


We have the answers here at ActiveRain and chances are great that if you can't find them now (which is hard to imagine!) you will find them tomorrow or the next day because our experts add hundreds of new posts every day.


Only ActiveRain gives you the chance to read news and advice from professionals who not only talk the talk, but walk the walk – the boots on the ground every day in the real estate industry.


Expert real estate advice, free for the reading – you gotta love that!

Recent blogs on Home Selling
By E. Steve Banis, Jr., https://www.SouthCarolinaHomesInc.com
(South Carolina Homes Inc.)
 ▐►🈚Discounted FSBO RENT 2 OWN SW-DW Mobile Homes Buy Sell Charleston🈚▐►DISCOUNT MOBILE HOMES  SELL-INVEST-WHOLESALE-BUY SC Charleston 🈚▐►DISCOUNT MOBILE HOMES SC SELL-INVEST-WHOLESALE-BUY ★ Charleston🈚▐►✴️▐►SC Mobile Home Sales★BUY-SELL-RENT2OWN-WHOLESALE-INVEST Charleston Please Check Out SOME of the Houses, MH, Land We have Bought and Sold Over the Past 22 Years SEE on our Web Sites Below DISCOUNT MOBILE HOMES ★ BUY - SELL - WHOLESALE ★ INVEST ★ Charleston★ ★  🈚 BUY - SELL - RENT to OWN -WHOLESALE - INVEST 🈚Houses - Mobile Homes - Land ★SPECIAL NOTE: Our 22nd Year in Business ★Serving the Greater Charleston South Carolina Community We Are THE Mt Pleasant SC Licensed Real Estate Investment Company Since 2002.         ★ Fast - Fair - Friendly - Experienced - Local ★  Discount Mobile Ho...
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By Michelle Gibson, REALTOR
(Hansen Real Estate Group Inc. )
If you’re preparing to sell your home, one of the most common questions that may come to mind is, “Should I pack before I list my home for sale?” As a seasoned Realtor who has helped hundreds of clients navigate the selling process, my answer is almost always a confident yes—but with some nuance.Packing before listing can make a significant difference in how your home shows, how quickly it sells, and even how much you net from the sale. It may feel overwhelming at first, especially if you’ve lived in your home for years, but starting the packing process early can set the stage for a smoother, more successful transaction.Here’s why packing before listing is not only a good idea but often a smart strategy, and how to go about it the right way.1. First Impressions MatterWhen buyers walk in...
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By Dick Betts, Realtor, Team Leader
(Dick Betts National Speaker)
Thursday May 8th 10:00 until 1:00Friday May 9th 1:00 until 3:00BOND PAID! Imagine peacefully living in the fantastic Village of Santo Domingo, ideally located just a few miles from all the exciting restaurants, shopping, and entertainment at Spanish Springs Square. Conveniently close to the VA Clinic and the Hwy 27/441 shopping corridor, you’ll find everything you need easily within reach. Invite your family and friends to gather on your Backyard Patio Oasis, beautifully accented with palm trees and landscaping that completely ensures your Privacy. No Neighbors Behind You. This exceptionally beautiful Gardenia model home has been thoroughly Updated in 2023, making it feel practically brand new! Upgraded Luxury Vinyl Flooring flows seamlessly throughout the home, paired elegantly with so...
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By Lilas "Lela" Ashkarian, Ashkarian PA, ABR, CRS, E-PRO, GRI,SFR
(Coldwell Banker Schmitt Real Estate)
Market Overview: What's Happening in the Florida KeysFrom January through April 2025, the Florida Keys real estate market continues to stand out as one of America’s most sought-after coastal destinations. Although inventory is rising-up 16.5% across the Keys-sales activity has softened slightly, with a 3% drop in closed transactions compared to the previous year. The Lower Keys, however, saw a 19.5% increase in closed sales, while the Middle Keys experienced a steeper decline13.The enduring appeal of the Keys is driven by limited land availability, strict development regulations, and a unique tropical lifestyle. These factors create natural scarcity, supporting property values even as other markets fluctuate Why This Is an Excellent Time to Buy in the Florida Keys Stable Investment Pote...
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Selling a home can be an exciting but complex process.    Selling a home can be an exciting but complex process. As a seasoned Realtor, I’ve seen firsthand how small missteps can lead to major setbacks, whether it’s a home sitting on the market too long or a sale falling through at the last minute. Many sellers enter the process with high hopes, but without the right guidance, they can make decisions that cost them time, money, and peace of mind. To help homeowners navigate the process more smoothly, I’ve outlined some of the most common mistakes home sellers make and, more importantly, how to avoid them. 1. Overpricing the Home The Mistake:Setting a high price with the hope of “leaving room to negotiate” is one of the most common seller mistakes. Many sellers assume that pricing the ho...
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By Walter DiLoreto, Real Estate Short Sale Specialist
(PHP Houses)
As you think ahead to your own move, you may have noticed some houses sell within days, while others linger. But why is that? As Redfin says:“. . . today’s housing market has been topsy-turvy since the pandemic. Low inventory (though rising) and high prices have created a strange mix: Some homes are flying off the market, while others sit for weeks.”That may leave you wondering what you should expect when you sell. Let’s break it down and give you some actionable tips on how to make sure your house is one that sells quickly.Homes Are Still Selling Faster Than Pre-PandemicThe first thing you should know is that, in most markets, things have slowed down a little bit. While you may remember how quickly homes sold a few years ago, that’s not what you should expect today.Now that inventory h...
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By Thomas Santore Lic Associate Real Estate Broker, Realtor®-ABR-Land, Residential & Commercial Sa
(Coldwell Banker Realty/Coldwell Banker Commercial NRT)
Price Improvement: Two-Family Home with Garage in Wakefield, Bronx Now $799,000Great news for buyers looking for a strong investment or multi-generational living opportunity in the Bronx! Our newly listed two-family home in the Wakefield neighborhood just had a price improvement — now offered at $799,000, down from the original $815,000.Property Highlights: Two-family layout – Ideal for owner-occupants looking to offset their mortgage or investors seeking rental income. One-car garage + driveway – A rare convenience in the Bronx. Move-in ready – Well-maintained interiors and flexible space. Prime Wakefield location – Near public transit, shopping, and parks. This adjustment opens the door for more buyers to step into a property that blends practicality with potential. Whether you're a s...
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By Michelle Gibson, REALTOR
(Hansen Real Estate Group Inc. )
Selling a home can be an exciting but complex process. As a seasoned Realtor, I’ve seen firsthand how small missteps can lead to major setbacks, whether it’s a home sitting on the market too long or a sale falling through at the last minute. Many sellers enter the process with high hopes, but without the right guidance, they can make decisions that cost them time, money, and peace of mind.To help homeowners navigate the process more smoothly, I’ve outlined some of the most common mistakes home sellers make and, more importantly, how to avoid them.1. Overpricing the Home The Mistake:Setting a high price with the hope of “leaving room to negotiate” is one of the most common seller mistakes. Many sellers assume that pricing the home above market value will yield a higher sale price in the ...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
You Won’t Believe the Weirdest Things I’ve Seen at Open Houses – Share Yours!If you’ve ever been to an open house, you know they can be full of surprises. Sometimes it’s a beautifully staged kitchen or a stunning backyard. Other times… it’s a mannequin staring at you from the corner of the living room.I’ve seen my fair share of oddities, and they never fail to keep the job interesting. Here are a few of the strangest things I’ve come across during my real estate adventures: Mannequins in Every Room – It’s one thing to have a well-dressed mannequin or two for staging, but a house full of them? It’s like walking into a clothing store that doubles as a haunted house. Taxidermy Snake – Nothing says ‘Welcome Home’ like a glassy-eyed, preserved serpent coiled up on a mantle. Not the vibe most...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
Downsizing your home can be a liberating experience, offering a chance to simplify your life and focus on what truly matters. Whether you're an empty nester, approaching retirement, or simply seeking a more manageable living space, the process of downsizing can lead to a more organized and stress-free lifestyle.  Step 1: Declutter with PurposeBegin by assessing your belongings critically. The 90/90 Rule is a helpful guideline: ask yourself if you've used an item in the last 90 days or plan to use it in the next 90. If the answer is no, it's time to let it go .To streamline the process, employ the Four-Box Method: label boxes as Keep, Donate, Trash, and Store. This approach aids in making decisive choices about each item.Step 2: Evaluate Your New SpaceUnderstanding the dimensions and lay...
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By Kerry L Klun, Broker/Owner, 321-626-5868
(Palm Realty)
Palm Realty's own wonderful Michael Belcher has gotten this beautiful home in the Oceanside Village neighborhood of Indialantic UNDER CONTRACT!!!  this home was listed for $779,000 and featured:4 bedrooms3 bathrooms2835 square feet1 story.22 acre lot Built in 2005In ground private poolGated communityExtra officeLarge kitchen with center island and pantryStainless appliance packageMaster suite with in five piece en suite bathInside laundryHOA of $431 per quarter which includes: basketball court, clubhouse, pickleball, glayground, community pool, racquetball and tennis courts Close to shopping, entertainment, dining and of course close to the ocean! If you are looking to purchase a property or sell the one that you have, call Michael at 305-798-1564. Michael would love to help you find yo...
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By Jean Richer, Straight Talk on Real Estate
(Keller Williams Realty Inc.)
Think selling your home means walking away with a big profit? Not so fast—many sellers are surprised by the hidden (and not-so-hidden) costs that can eat into their bottom line. Here's a quick breakdown of what to expect:1. Realtor Commissions Typically, the largest expense, usually split between the listing and buyer’s agents, with HST added. Rates and services vary, so do your research.2. Legal Fees Essential for closing the deal and handling paperwork. Costs can vary based on the transaction and property type. Always hire a reputable real estate lawyer.3. Mortgage Penalties Breaking your mortgage early? You could owe thousands — especially with a fixed-rate mortgage. Call your lender before listing.4. Staging & Photography Staging helps your home show better and sell faster. Professi...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
This blog provides timely and insightful advice for anyone planning to sell their home in 2025! I love how it breaks down current buyer preferences—from energy efficiency to modern design and functional spaces. It’s a great guide for making smart updates that align with today’s market demands. 🏡📈🔍 Selling in 2025? Here’s What Buyers Are Really Looking For🔍... ... How To Position Your Home🏡 To Sell🪧  Faster In Today's Market   As we move further into 2025, the real estate market is undergoing significant changes, particularly with a noticeable increase in housing inventory. This shift means that sellers are facing more competition, making it more important than ever to understand the evolving preferences and expectations of today's home buyers. To stand out in a crowded market, sellers m...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
This blog offers excellent tips for making an online home listing truly stand out! I love how it emphasizes the importance of high-quality photos, compelling descriptions, and staging for the digital eye. It’s a must-read for sellers wanting to attract serious buyers right from the first click. 🖥️📸🏡✨ Stand Out and Sell Fast with Irresistible Listings   Introduction   In today’s digital age, your online listing can make or break a sale. Buyers often explore homes online before stepping through the front door. So, think about it: how can you ensure that your listing captures their attention and keeps them interested?    A great online presence is all about visuals and words. You want a combination of stunning photography, engaging descriptions, and innovative virtual tours. Let’s dive int...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
This blog is full of clever and creative organization hacks that really make a space shine! I love how it combines functionality with style, offering easy solutions to reduce clutter and maximize every inch. A must-read for anyone looking to bring more order and calm to their home! 🧺✨🏠 Simple Tips for Staging Storages to Attract Buyers   Introduction   When it comes to selling a home, first impressions matter. Imagine stepping into a space that feels tidy, welcoming, and organized. That’s the goal! You want potential buyers to envision their lives in your listings, and a clean slate can help them picture it clearly.    Creating an organized oasis can set your property apart and encourage buyers to make an offer. With a few practical tips, you can maximize storage spaces and achieve that...
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By Thomas Santore Lic Associate Real Estate Broker, Realtor®-ABR-Land, Residential & Commercial Sa
(Coldwell Banker Realty/Coldwell Banker Commercial NRT)
One Town, Ten Drives: Yorktown – Day 5“The Corners We Skip”There’s a turn on Croton Lake Road that no one seems to take. Maybe it’s the angle. Maybe it’s the overgrowth, or the fact that GPS never favors it. But on Day 5, that’s exactly where I went.The road winds tighter than most in Yorktown, and the tree canopy felt more tunnel than trail. About halfway in, I stopped at a piece of land with no sign, no listing, and no obvious driveway—just a break in the stone wall and a faint path through the brush. These are the parcels you only find when you’re not looking for listings, but for possibilities.There’s something instructive about land that’s been overlooked. In this case: flat sections you’d never expect from the slope, a rock outcrop with serious potential for drama (and maybe a fir...
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By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
Persistence pays off, and so does preparation! After navigating three previous contracts that didn’t align on timing, my listing is once again Active Under Contract. This time, everything clicked.The buyers were immediately drawn to the home’s thoughtful design and top-tier renovations, from high-end finishes to premium upgrades throughout. Touring the property with their agent, they were wowed by the expansive Pella glass sliders that open the family room to the outdoors, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor living experience.Natural light pours in through the skylights, highlighting standout features like the integrated media console and illuminated glass cabinetry, ideal for showcasing favorite pieces. The kitchen sealed the deal with its modern white gloss cabinets, soft-close drawers...
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By Nina Hollander, Broker, Your Greater Charlotte Real Estate Broker
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
Selling in 2025? Here’s What Buyers Are Really Looking For🔍...... How To Position Your Home🏡 To Sell🪧  Faster In Today's Market As we move further into 2025, the real estate market is undergoing significant changes, particularly with a noticeable increase in housing inventory. This shift means that sellers are facing more competition, making it more important than ever to understand the evolving preferences and expectations of today's home buyers. To stand out in a crowded market, sellers must align their offerings with what buyers truly value in a home—whether it's energy efficiency, updated amenities, flexible living spaces, or proximity to key services and transportation. I recently published a comprehensive guide outlining the six key priorities for homebuyers in 2025, along with ac...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Is Your Home Ready for ‘Love at First Sight’ Buyers?Some buyers know it the second they walk through the door — this is the one.In today’s competitive real estate market, creating that instant “wow” moment is everything. Buyers in Auburn and Opelika aren’t just looking for a house — they’re looking for a feeling. That emotional spark. That moment of “home.”So how do you make your property irresistible the moment they step inside?Set the Scene for Love at First Sight: Curb Appeal Counts:Before buyers ever touch the doorknob, they’re already forming an opinion. Trimmed landscaping, a fresh welcome mat, and a pop of color on the door can completely change the vibe. First impressions start at the street. Light It Up:Natural and warm lighting makes a home feel bigger, brighter, and more welc...
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By Joan Cox, Denver Real Estate - Selling One Home at a Time
(House to Home, Inc. - Denver Real Estate - 720-231-6373)
I am listing a loft in downtown Denver this week, and went over comparables with the Seller, and boy, HOA condo fees are sure all over the board!   They range from just over $400 to $1300 per month.   It does depend on the amenities the building offers also.Denver has an abundant hail events and most every year, which sure affects these HOA fees.Bottom line, obviously the HOA fee will sway a buyer's decision one way or the other depending on their finances, or what they can afford.With a building having amenities such as the fitness room, community pool, or concierge service will weigh on a buyer's decision.My listing has an HOA fee situated in the middle of all the HOA fees, so should be interesting to see what the feedback will be, and how long before we see an offer. 
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