In today’s market, it’s highly unlikely that the first home you live in will be your “forever” home. Changes in employment, families, and lifestyle make it no surprise that the average American moves more than 11 times during their life. Meaning it’s highly likely that you’ll sell a home more than a few times yourself and will want to get the best price possible. Experienced home sellers know that there are a lot of details that can make a big difference when it comes to attracting buyers and increasing profit potential. So the next time you’re getting ready to sell your home, be sure to consider the following:
Don’t list too fast
If you’ve got time to plan ahead before you list your home for sale, do so. Once the decision has been made to sell, it’s understandable that you’d want to get your home listed as quickly as possible. However, taking the time to set the stage for the best home sale experience is one of the most important steps in the sales process. After all, you only get one chance to make a first impression, and a great first impression is something that can translate to actual dollars.
It’s never too early to talk to your Realtor. They can help you decide what can be done to improve your home’s value and attractiveness for potential buyers. Take the time to paint, store away clutter, get repairs done, freshen up the landscaping, and maybe even do some home staging.
Use images that catch the eye – and make the sale
When the National Association of Realtors surveyed home buyers to choose what was most important in their home search process, home buyers said online pictures were more important than price, description, or location. Working with an experienced photographer who can take images of your home that are attractive and show it off to its very best is essential in today’s real estate market. Most buyers look at homes for sale online first, making up their minds about what homes they will even look at by the images they see online. If your house is gorgeous, but your photos dark and blurry, you risk losing potential buyers before they have a chance to enter the door.
Set the right price
Correctly pricing a house can be confusing for sellers. Finding the right balance between pricing it high enough to allow for more profit, versus low enough to attract sellers, is a tricky balancing act. This is another situation where working with an experienced Realtor who is familiar with the area and has access to information like local comps will help you set the right price. A correctly-priced home has the potential to receive multiple offers early in the process. Plus, you might also have a chance of receiving more than the asking price, with multiple buyers willing to negotiate with increased offers.
Know your “wow” factor
Identify what makes your home stand out from others for sale in your community and use that information in your marketing to catch attention and draw buyers your way. It could be award-winning schools, jaw-dropping landscaping, impressive views, and extras such as home offices, crafting rooms, or outdoor spaces. The special characteristics and features of your home for sale might be just the thing to catch the right buyer’s eye.
Be flexible for showings
If you turn down requests for showings because they are not convenient, you might be turning away a buyer on the verge of making an offer. Showings often take place when buyers aren’t at work – which means weekends and evenings throughout the week. Time is tight for everyone these days, and busy buyers sometimes won’t take the trouble to reschedule if they are not able to see a home at their convenience. Have the house ready at all times, and a plan for quickly vacating when the next call comes in.
If you’re ready to buy, sell, or learn more about the real estate market in Arlington and the surrounding Northern Virginia area, I invite you to give me a call at 703-593-6320. (Email’s good too at mike@mikesellsvirginia.com).