Selling Your Home? Here's How to Make it Easy

With the real estate market heating up once more, homeowners who are thinking about selling are seeing an increased demand for their homes. Though a "seller's market" generally makes it easier to sell your home quicker, there are other ways to enhance your home's attractiveness, generate interest and get the best price possible. Here are a few ways you can do this: Make Your Home "Move-In Ready." Buyers today are generally looking for homes in move-in condition, giving the impression that they can start enjoying their new home right away rather than spending time and money making repairs. This also prevents the “bargain hunters” from asking the seller to lower their price. Aesthetics play a big part in the first impression your home gives off, but it's also important that doors, appliances and electrical and plumbing fixtures be in compliance with current building codes and are all in working order. Going the extra step early on to make sure your home's fixtures are working and are up-to-date now can help expedite the home-selling process later on. Additionally important is the appearance of the house. If the appearance of your property is not good, many potential buyers might pass it over for another. Ensuring that front yards and gardens are well-maintained, and that all doors and windows are nicely painted and presentable can also go a long way in making your home look warm and inviting. Inside, clean, organized and de-cluttered homes allow potential buyers to feel more at ease, and a neutral environment with open space can even help buyers imagine themselves living in the home. Sellers may consider hiring a professional to stage the home for walk-throughs to help achieve this atmosphere. However, the more experienced real estate pro includes this service and knows it will enhance the marketability of the property. Offer Extra Goodies. Another way sellers can make their home and deal more attractive to potential buyers is to offer additional terms that may sweeten the pot, so to speak. Sellers can consider transferring their home warranties for appliances over to the buyer - giving them peace of mind that they won't have to pay to fix a malfunctioning washer or dryer might play a bigger role than you think. Sellers can also consider offering buyers a credit toward closing costs, or offer to pay closing costs entirely to help receive more attention from house-hunters looking at similar homes. Closing costs are usually a couple thousand dollars in fees, which is not insignificant. Many buyers need the financial help to qualify, and are willing to pay a higher price for the home. If sellers can guarantee expedited closing on the home, allowing the new homeowners to access the home within 30 to 60 days may clinch a deal. Buyers who have found their dream houses often want to move in and enjoy the home right away. Price Your Home Right. Regardless of how well staged and renovated your home is, pricing it appropriately is still the most important aspect. Comparables are a great asset when arriving at a price - finding out what other similar houses are being listed and sold for in your neighborhood will give you a good idea of an appropriate asking price. Just remember that having the lowest priced home on the block isn't the most important factor of the sale, especially when appearance and other significant improvements have been made. If you're looking to sell your home, Miller Associates is dedicated to getting you the best price for your home, will help make your experience a smooth one, and make sure you get the value you deserve. Call Margie Miller, Broker, Miller Associates Real Estate, today at 909-888-9000 or email margie@millerassociatesrealestate.com.