Even if a quick home sale is not a life or death necessity, it is in your best financial interest. Realtor surveys and popular knowledge make it clear that the longer a home stays on the market, the lower the price will fall. Most homes that sell for full sale price sell within two weeks of listing. These five tips will help you sell your home NOW.
Tip No. # 1: hire the best real estate agent you can find …
… and then follow their advice. Real estate agents are trained professionals whose business is the sale of personal homes. They can help you set the right price for your home, tell you what cosmetic repairs and changes you can do to help you sell faster, and guide you through the process step-by-step.
Tip No. # 2: set the right price
The general rule of thumb for selling a home quickly is a price that is within 5% to 10% of other homes in the neighborhood. If you have hired a real estate agent, you will know why other houses in your area have sold. If you’ve decided to sell your home yourself, you can find information about recent home sales in your area online.
Tip No. 3: it’s all about the curb appeal
Most buyers who DO NOT buy have already discarded their home before setting foot in your door. Don’t underestimate the value of the cosmetic appeal of your home’s exterior. No matter how wonderful your home interior is, if it is wrapped in a shabby package and poor environment, then you will have a much harder time selling it. Take the time to spruce up the exterior of your home to show your best side to the world.
And don’t underestimate the power of flowers! A small investment in a few plants to stand on the front steps or liven up the edge of the lawn can make a big difference in how your home is perceived.
Tip No. # 4: make it easy for potential buyers to image themselves in your home
Start by thoroughly cleaning your home. Get rid of all the clutter, whether it’s visible or hidden in a closet. Nobody wants to buy a dirty house! Next, you must put away all your personal belongings. You want your potential buyers to see THEMSELVES in your living room, not you.
Another great trick when selling your home is to use a little psychology. If you are repainting in the summer months, consider using “cool” colors. In winter, wear warm ones. Make people happy in your house and it will sell faster!
Tip No. # 5: If You Have Decided To Sell On Your Own, List Your House With An FSBO Website
FSBO (For Sale By Owner) websites are a great way to advertise your property. Most FSBO sites (http://www.forsalebyowner.com/, http://www.fiftystatesfsbo.com/) will tell you how to set up a Flat Rate Multiple Listing contract with a local real estate agent. That will get your home listed on your local MLS service and dramatically increase your visibility.
If you’ve done your prep work right, priced your home right, and made sure your home is as attractive as possible, you will sell it NOW.