Are you thinking of Selling your home?

One of the first steps you should take would be to consult with a licensed Realtor! The “know it all” when it comes to selling a home is not a good idea. You will lose more money trying to do that then by hiring an experienced Realtor to list, market and negotiate the sale of your home. It is also quiet risky when it comes to the legalities. From under-qualified buyers wasting precious time to contractual loopholes to overpricing your home, there are lots of selling pitfalls an agent can help you avoid.

If you are trying to save a commission, research shows that homeowners that sell their homes by themselves typically sell for far less than that who are listed with a Realtor. Not only that, but trying to cross all your T’s and dot all your I’s when it comes to contracts can be tricky and end up costing you more than a 6% commission.

Choosing an agent comes down to personal preference. Choosing an agent that you get along with is definitely important, however,an experienced agent that has your best interest at heart and can negotiate the best deal for you while continuing to be diligent and ethical is equally important. Take your time in interviewing potential agents and talk to friends and family to see if they have a referral they can recommend. Ask about marketing plans and for referrals.

Now that you have a Realtor you are comfortable with, let’s get to preparing your home for a top dollar sale that is quick and painless!

First off, having a pre-list inspection is always a great idea. A certified inspector would be my first choice for the best results. These inspection cost roughly $350 depending on the size of the home. An experienced Realtor can also help out with some of the obvious. Remember, all we do is sell homes so we know what to look for and also what potential buyers look for. If you end up having large repairs that need to be made, you can then make the decision to address them before listing your home or to at least get estimates for costs. Buyers will appreciate your due diligence.

The next thing I would suggest would be to clean and organize your home for showings. When your home hits the market, you will see an influx of showings within the first coupke weeks so be prepared. If buyers see a home that is cluttered and dusty, they will not come back for a second look once youget around to cleaning it. Taking these steps will also help prepare you for the move you will be making once your home sells. A few items to be aware of are any types of odors that you will want to remove, make the place squeeky clean and declutter.

Stage your home inside and out. Curb appeal is a home’s first impression. Trimming shrubs, pruning trees, and planting seasonal blooms can be a wonderful way to make your entryway feel more welcoming. You want homes clutter free so new potential buyers can imagine their own furnishings in the home.

These are just a few simple pre-sale prepping suggestions. Be sure to ask your agent for other tips that can help you prepare for listing.