When it comes to selling real estate in today's market, it's important to have a realistic understanding of sales prices in your area and a firm grasp on your own bottom line. At Oakstrand Realty, we understand the complexities of the real estate market and are here to offer valuable advice to help you navigate the selling process.
One of the first steps in selling your home is to make it as attractive as possible to potential buyers. This doesn't have to be a costly endeavor; simply freshening up the interior with a new coat of paint and ensuring the windows are sparkling can make a big difference. For added curb appeal, consider planting some brightly colored flowers and keeping your lawn well-maintained.
It's also important to minimize the presence of personal items in your home when showing it to potential buyers. They want to be able to envision themselves living in the space, and having personal photos and mementos scattered throughout can be distracting. Save these items for your new home.
Small tasks like painting, lawn maintenance, and repairs may seem like minor annoyances, but neglecting them can lead to a lot of work down the road. It's best to take care of these tasks before putting your home on the market.
If you have pets, it's best to keep them out of the house during showings. Take them to a friend's house, put away their toys and bowls, and remove any signs of a litter box. The presence of pets can be a turn-off for some potential buyers.
Spring is often considered the ideal time to sell a home, as families are less likely to want to move during the school year. To take advantage of this, get your home ready for the market during the winter months and list it in late February. This gives you five months to sell during the peak selling season.
First impressions are crucial when it comes to selling a home. Invest in landscaping or make improvements to the exterior of your home to make it as visually appealing as possible. A well-maintained and aesthetically pleasing exterior can make all the difference in catching a buyer's eye.
It's also important to find out when your home's potential buyer needs to close on the sale. This information can give you an advantage during negotiations. On the other hand, avoid sharing your reasons for selling, as it could put you at a disadvantage in the process.
If you live in a neighborhood with a high number of foreclosed properties, your own home's value may suffer. Consider reaching out to your local authorities to see if the Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP) is available. This program helps buyers purchase, fix, and resell condemned or foreclosed properties, which can increase the value of your neighborhood.
At Oakstrand Realty, we believe that a realistic appraisal of the market and a clear understanding of your own bottom line are key to successfully selling your real estate. By considering the factors discussed in this article, you can set yourself up for a successful sale of your property.