You’ve done your hard thinking and you’ve made the decision to finally get your home listed on the market and work towards getting that sale. While your agent will be an important part of that process, it’s also important for you take your own steps to give yourself the best possible chance for success.
We’ve pulled together the top 10 tips to be a successful seller.
Be committed to selling
In a buyer’s market with inflated inventories, short sales, and power of sales, there is no place for sellers who want to ‘test the waters’. Don’t even think “If I get my price”. You do not want to be a high risk seller. Money is only a secondary motivator to the serious seller.
Make sure the price is right
Try triangulation. Ask a few Realtor®s for their opinion. Consider a formal appraisal. Focus on both current competition and current comparable properties. Sellers should realize they seldom see their property objectively or know the other properties the buyers have seen.
Staging is a necessity
Clutter eats equity. Hire a professional stager or listen very carefully to your Realtor®’s suggestions. View staging videos on YouTube or read our blog post “How to Stage Your Home.” Buyers do not like defects. A faded front door suggests deferred maintenance. A stucco crack may infer expansive soil.
Lockbox
The lockboxes enables the listing Realtor® to be able to provide convenient access to the property. Homes with easy access get more showings.
Install a for sale sign
If you don’t want the neighbours to know you are selling, reread #1 above. The people in your area will know with or without the sign your property is for sale. They might even have a friend or relative who wants to be their new neighbour.
Absorb all feedback
If one buyer says something, others are thinking the same thing. If several similar comments are made, do something about the problem. Put your ego in storage with the excess furniture.
Flexibility is fundamental
No showings usually means the price is too high. No offers usually means the price is too high. Be proactive especially if the market is flat or declining. Reduce the price if advised by your Realtor® after reviewing the market after your home has been on the market for a period of time
Accentuate the positives
Selling, buying, and moving are stressful events. Tell your Realtor® you appreciate their efforts. Ask them how you can help get the house sold. Ask them what they would do if you were their relative, or it was their home. Ask this question frequently.
Time is of the essence
This means sooner is better than later. Do not underestimate the first buyer. They may be the best buyer. They may be the only buyer for a long time. A lower asking price may net a seller more money in the long run.
Patience is a virtue
Ask your Realtor® what the average days on the market is in your area. The only way to get somewhere faster is to step on the gas if you are in a car. Or, reduce the price if your house is not selling.
