Even if a quick home sale isn’t a life-or-death necessity, it’s in your best financial interests. Surveys of real estate agents and popular lore make it clear that the longer a home stays on the market, the smaller the price will fall. Most homes that sell for full sale price sell within two weeks of listing. These five tips will help you sell your home NOW.
Tip #1: Hire the best real estate agent you can find…
…and then follow his advice. Real estate agents are trained professionals whose business is selling houses for people. They can help you price your home right, tell you what repairs and cosmetic changes you can make to help you sell faster, and walk you through the process step-by-step.
Tip #2: Set the right price
The general rule of thumb for selling a house fast is to price it within 5% to 10% of other houses 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’ve 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 written off their home before they even set 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 home is, if it’s wrapped in rickety packaging and poor surroundings, you’ll have a much harder time selling it. Take the time to spruce up the exterior of your home to show your best face 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 house a deep cleaning. Get rid of all clutter, whether visible or hidden in a closet. Nobody wants to buy a dirty house! Next, you need to put all your personal belongings away. You want your prospective buyers to see THEMSELVES in your living room, not you.
Another great trick when selling your house is to use a little psychology. If you are going to repaint in the summer months, consider using “cool” colors. In winter, wear 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 flat fee multiple listing contract with a local real estate agent. That will get your house 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, YOUR home WILL COME RIGHT NOW.