Tips for Sellers
There are three (3) components required to selling a home:
- Price
- Condition
- Marketing
You, as the owner, have control over the first two items... I have control over the last. I will help you with ideas to get your property into the best condition to sell at the best price. Your cooperation is critical to your sale's success...
PRICE
Most buyers don't house hunt in a single subdivision; they usually purchase in an entire area or school district. When there are dozens of other homes to choose from, they tend to ignore homes perceived as overpriced - and end up buying your competition. If you hear buyers complain your home is too high in price - you are actually helping the other sellers in the marketplace sell their homes! We may need to discuss realigning your asking price to an appropriate figure - and it will sell.
The Nat'l Association of Realtors published a stat that if a clean, well presented home does not get an offer within reasonable time on market it's likely at least 5% overpriced. The longer your home sits, the lower ultimately the contract price you'll receive. I promise to guide you with my market knowledge and experience to help you decide on the best price.
CONDITION
With buyers, perception is everything...and they often heavily discount repair items in their favor. For example, if your carpet is soiled and can be cleaned for $400, the buyers may ask for $4,000 in carpet replacement allowance. I will help you decide what actions to take that will net you much more money in the end.
- Many homes are sold the moment a buyer pulls up to the front of the home. You could have 24-carat gold bathtubs, but if the front of the home lacks curb appeal, the buyers may never enter. Plant lots of flowers, keep grass cut low and edged, keep leaves off the yard and driveway, spread mulch & pine straw in the island beds, replace tarnished front door knobs, and paint the front entry doorway area.
- According to the National Association of Realtor's statistics, a "smoker's" home will sell for up to 18% less than a non-smokers. Reason? Buyers immediately sense it when they walk in the door- and if it does not turn them away to your competition, they may make a low-ball offer to compensate for: new carpeting, new painting, HVAC duct cleaning, and a deep cleaning of cabinetry. Please DO NOT smoke in your home. And ensure that if you do outside, ashtrays and butts are hidden from view.
- Natural light sells! Keep all window blinds and shades open during a showing; maximize available sunlight. If you get notice of a showing, turn ALL lights on including: closets, garages, basements, baths, and even outdoor light fixtures. Why? One of the biggest complaints a buyer makes is that "The home shows too dark."
- Studies have proven that evidence of a pet in (especially in key areas of the home such as kitchens, baths, and bedrooms) turn buyers away. Food and water bowls, toys, etc.) should be placed in non-essential areas such as the laundry room, garage or utility room. Remember, I love my pet as you love yours, but others may not.
- Odor is an extremely important sense used when selecting a home. If you have pet odors, it is highly recommended to professionally clean the carpet using an added deodorizer. Clean is the best air freshner for a seller. Odors are the #1 turnoff for buyers.
- A one time deep-cleaning of the home by a professional cleaning service is VERY much recommended.
- Large painted murals, flowery wallpaper, and bright colors may be your personal preference, but it is important to de-personalize the home. Making it more neutral appeals to the mass market and doing so will greatly expedite a sale.
- If neighbors, buyers and agents see changing Realtor signs going up on the front lawn, they believe there must be something inherently bad about the property or the situation at the home or seller. I will work closely with you to ensure we are on the right track.
I promise you the best, most honest representation to get your house sold at top market price!