Even if a quick home sale isn’t a life or death necessity, it is in your best financial interest. Surveys of real estate agents and popular knowledge make it clear that the longer a home stays on the market, the smaller the price drop. Most homes that sell for full sale price sell within two weeks of being listed. These five tips will help you sell your home NOW.
Tip # 1: Hire the best real estate agent you can find …
… and then take their advice. Real estate agents are trained professionals whose business is selling houses to individuals. 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 # 2: Set the right price
The general rule of thumb for selling a home fast is a price that is between 5% and 10% of other homes in the neighborhood. If you’ve hired a real estate agent, you’ll know what other homes in your area have sold for. If you have decided to sell your home yourself, you can find information online about recent home sales in your area.
Tip # 3: it’s all about curb appeal
Most buyers who do NOT buy have already discarded their home before setting foot in the front door. Don’t underestimate the value of the cosmetic appeal of your home’s exterior. No matter how wonderful the interior of your house is, if it is wrapped in a shabby package and in a poor environment, you will have a much more difficult 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 place on your front steps or liven up a lawn border can make a big difference in how your home is perceived.
Tip # 4: Make it easy for potential buyers to imagine themselves in your home
Start by giving your home a thorough cleaning. 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, use warm ones. Make people happy in your house and it will sell faster!
Tip # 5: If You Have Decided To Sell On Your Own, List Your Home On 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 fixed 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 your home RIGHT NOW.