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No single factor has more impact on the successful sale of your property than pricing. The price at which you choose to list your home will determine whether or not your home sells in a timely fashion, or languishes on the market.
When pricing your home in the real estate market, consider:
- There is no such thing as an "exact price" in real estate. A sales representative does not determine the "worth" of your home. The market determines the value.
- The majority of showings by sales associates on a new listing occur when the house is first placed on the market. Sales agents arrange for their active, qualified buyers to see a home when it is newly listed. Once this group has seen the property, showing activity decreases to only those buyers new to the market. Therefore, it is important to position your home at the best price during its first market exposure.
Buyers decide what to purchase by:
- Selecting the best value they can find
If your property is overpriced, it may be used to make competing listings seem more attractive--making your home the reason they buy another home. When selling your home, put forth the very best product. Buyers come for a careful inspection. This can be especially important for remote areas such as a basement or attic.
On the day of your open house, bake some cookies or bring in some fragrant fresh flowers! This will allow prospective buyers to feel instantly at home.
Research shows that buyers look for very specific features. Your attention to these details will dramatically impact the speed and price at which your home sells.
Outside Curb Appeal
Remove dead and dying plants and any clutter from the outside area. Trim hedges and shrubs to allow clear visibility of your home and windows. Edge driveways and walkways for a finished, manicured look. Remove or repair anything that looks old or worn. Pay special attention to door and entryways. Remove any grease or oil spots on concrete. Add color with potted plants, especially around entry ways.
Inside Appeal
Most importantly; remove the clutter from your house. This gives the possible buyers a clean open feeling to preview the home. Remove stacks of magazines, knickknacks, etc. Clear kitchen and bath counters of everything but bare essentials. Lighten up dark corners and add some fresh paint. Make sure there are no stale odors in the home. Clean or replace carpets and drapes. Clean windows, kitchens, and baths. Remove family photos--buyers want to imagine their family in the house not yours. Keep garage and closets clean and organized. Store all items not in immediate use. Store all but minimum furniture and wall hangings. Eliminate unsightly stains. Add fresh flowers throughout. Keep fresh, matching towels and soaps in baths.
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