We often talk about first-time home buyers, but first-time home sellers are also a thing. These eight tips for first-time home sellers might help those potential first-timers trying to decide if now is the right time to get in the game!
Opt out of “For Sale by Owner.”
You may think anyone can sell a house, but that is a rookie mistake! From not knowing the market to negotiating offers, working with an experienced Realtor will save you time and money in the long run.
Make sure the price is right.
Just because it’s a seller’s market doesn’t mean you should overprice your property. Ask your agent to do a market analysis to help you decide what a fair asking price is for a home in your neighborhood.
Stage your home.
With houses in our area spending less and less time on the market these days, you might not think staging matters. But it does!
Don’t run the risk of turning potential buyers off right away due to clutter, wall dings or mismatched furniture that is hard to see past, for example.
Instead, work with your agent or a professional decorator to find out what appeals to the buyers in your town.
Be flexible when it comes to showings.
Maybe you’re uncomfortable with tons of strangers tromping through your home. However, shying away from showings—especially in the early stages—could lead to less interest and demand.
Show your newly-listed home to potential buyers as often as possible from the beginning to help build traction.
Consider starting with virtual showings if you are uncomfortable with in-person visits initially. Then when you know the buyers are serious, you can schedule in-person walk-throughs.
Use professional photography.
They say a picture is worth a thousand words, so let them do the talking! Professional photography and videos can set your property apart while highlighting the best aspects of your home.
Typically, your Realtor will have a list of possible candidates for the job.
See past the dollar sign.
When it comes to tips for first-time home sellers, this one is big. When it’s time to accept an offer, look beyond the dollar sign. Consider other factors within the offer such as contingences and the closing date.
Plan your next move.
Did you forget to search for your next home in the hustle and bustle of selling your current one? Don’t worry; it happens. But a good way to avoid this common mistake is to start your own search as soon as you list your property.
Don’t assume the market will stay hot.
Instead of letting the market trends dictate when you try to sell your home, let your individual needs guide you. Waiting for the “perfect” time to list your property may leave you stuck where you are.
Summary
What do all these tips for first-time home sellers have in common? Working with an experienced and knowledgeable Realtor will make the entire process easier! Contact Ryan Roberts today to talk about your options. For more on local real estate, keep reading our blogs!
