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Selling Real Estate?

Welcome to the home sellers section. 
 
Did you know? The best chance for selling your property is within the first seven weeks! Studies show that the longer a property stays on the market, the less financial return the seller will net.
There are 5 main factors to achieving your goal of getting top dollar for your property.
 
Factor 1: PRICING 

It is very important to price your property at a competitive market value right when you list it. The market is so competitive that even over-pricing by a few thousand dollars could mean that your house will not sell. I have found your first offer is usually your best offer.
An overpriced home:
  • Minimizes offers 
  • Lowers showings 
  • Lowers agent response 
  • Limits financing 
  • Limits qualified buyers
When you think about it, 80% of the marketing is done when we decide on what price to list your home.
For people unwilling to list a property at current market value, I usually recommend holding off on putting the property on the market for awhile.

Factor 2: CLEANING 

Most people are turned off by even the smallest amount of uncleanliness or odor when buying a home. Sellers lose thousands of dollars because they do not adequately clean. If your house is squeaky clean, you will be able to sell your home faster and net hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars more.
If you are planning on moving, why not get rid of that old junk now so that your house will appear larger? Make more space!  Odors must be eliminated, especially if you have dogs, cats, or young children in diapers, or if you are a smoker. You may not notice the smell, but the buyers do! Most agents have a difficult time communicating to their sellers about odor. If you employ an agent to get the most amount of money for you, please don't take offense if he/she must confront you about odor problems.

Factor 3: ACCESS 

Top selling agents will not show your home if both the key and access are not readily available. They do not have time to run around town picking up and dropping off keys. They want to sell homes! The greatest way to show a house is to have a key! When your home is being shown, be sure to do the following:
  • Keep all lights on, including exterior "coach" lights by your front door 
  • Keep all drapes and shutters open 
  • Keep all doors unlocked 
  • Leave soft music playing 
  • Take a short walk with your children and pets 
  • Let the buyer be at ease and let the agents do their job
Factor 4: PAINT AND CARPET 

Paint is your best improvement investment for getting a greater return on your money. Paint makes the whole house smell clean and neat. If your house has chipped paint, exposed wood, or the paint looks faded, it is time to paint.  If your carpet is worn, dirty, outdated, or an unusual color, you may need to seriously consider replacing it. Many houses do not sell because of this problem. Don't think that buyers have more money than you do to replace carpet. They don't. They simply buy elsewhere.

Factor 5: CURB APPEAL 

The first impression a buyer gets of your home is from the curb.  Your front yard immediately reflects the inside condition of your house to the buyer. People enjoy their yards. Make certain that the trees and bushes are trimmed so the house can be seen from the street. Have the grass mowed, trimmed and edged. Walkways should be swept. The front door should be freshly painted or freshly stained.  Clean away debris. Remove parked cars. This all adds to curb appeal.  If a buyer does not like the outside, they may not stop to see the inside!

Selling First Impressions.  When selling your home there are no guarantees that a buyer will simply walk through the front door. In many cases you may have to bring your home to the buyer!  Certainly effective marketing will help ensure that your property receives maximum exposure to attract a ready, willing and able buyer. But the appearance and overall condition of your home contributes to a buyer's crucial first impressionsAppearance and condition apply to the outside of the home as well as the inside. So stand across the street from your house and review its "curb appeal." Then walk into your home with inquisitive eyes of a home-buyer. Try to see your home as a buyer would, and take action accordingly.
 
Tips to improve your curb appeal:
  • Sweep front walkway and driveway. Pressure-washing the front walkway and driveway will make them look like new! 
  • Remove newspapers, bikes and toys. 
  • Park extra cars away from the property. 
  • Trim back the shrubs. 
  • Apply fresh, clean paint throughout. 
  • Clean windows and window coverings throughout. 
  • Keep pet areas clean. 
  • Keep plumbing and all appliances in working order. 
  • Maintain all sealant (window, tub, shower, sink, etc.) in good condition. 
  • Make sure roof and gutters are in good condition. 
  • Mow the lawn more frequently, and plant flowers.

Tips to consider for the interior of your home:

  • Kitchen and bathrooms should shine. 
  • Quick once-over with the vacuum. Carpets should be clean and free of spots. 
  • Place fresh flowers in the main rooms. 
  • Put dishes away, unless setting a formal display for decoration. 
  • Make beds and put all clothes away. 
  • Enhance the spaciousness of each room. 
  • Open drapes and turn on lights for a brighter feel. 
  • Straighten closets. Clear out floors of closets to make them appear more spacious. 
  • Put toys away. 
  • Turn off television. 
  • Play soft music on the radio/stereo. 
  • Keep pets out of the way, and ensure pet areas are clean and odor-free. 
  • Secure jewelry, cash, prescription medication and other valuables.

Other important reminders and suggestions:

  • Potential buyers usually feel more comfortable if the owners are not present. 
  • If people unaccompanied by an agent request to see your property, refer them to your real estate professional for an appointment. 
  • Leave a number where you can be reached if you are leaving town, even for a weekend.

Follow these tips to create the best first impression of your home. Improving your home's curb appeal and interior appearance can minimize your home's days on market and maximize your financial result!

Please select from one of the selling sections below to help assist you in selling your property or home. 
 

What's My Home Worth?

Would you like to find out what your home is worth from a professional Westfield Realtor? Click here to receive a free home valuation.

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Free Real Estate Reports

Click here to receive free sellers real estate reports.

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Why Select Me to Help You Sell Real Estate

Find out how I can help you sell your home for top dollar in as little time as possible.

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Home Improvement

Improving your home can be a key to selling it in a timely fashion. Click here to access links to help you improve the quality of your home.

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