From the actual transactional process of selling, to physically cleaning and packing all your stuff up—selling a home is a serious undertaking. There are several things you should consider. If you are prepared and selling your home is right for you, then follow these next steps:
Maximize your curb appeal!
A house that “sparkles” is likely to sell faster and at a higher price than its shabby neighbor, even if they’re both structurally sound. However, don’t feel the need to break the bank to get your home to its highest aesthetic potential. Before putting your house on the market, take as much time as necessary (and as little money as possible) to maximize its exterior appeal. Trim hedges, cut the lawn, keep your garage door closed and apply a fresh coat of paint to the front door for an instant facelift.
Maximize your interior!
There is a big difference between making minor and inexpensive “polishes” and “touch-ups” to your house, such as putting new knobs on cabinets and a fresh coat of neutral paint in the living room and doing extensive and costly renovations, like installing a new kitchen. In readying your house for sale, consider how much should you spend and put your money where it matters most. Enhance your home’s interior by removing all clutter, repainting dingy walls, and repairing cracks, leaks, holes, and other cosmetic damage.
Market your home for exposure!
The next step is the marketing plan. Marketing includes the exposure of your property to other real estate agents and the public. In many markets across the country, over 50% of real estate sales are cooperative sales; that is, a real estate agent other than yours brings in the buyer. Your REALTOR® acts as the marketing coordinator, disbursing information about your property to other real estate agents through a Multiple Listing Service or other cooperative marketing networks, open houses for agents, etc.
Advertising is also a part of marketing. The choice of media and the frequency of advertising depends a lot on the property and specific market. Your REALTOR® will know when, where, and how to advertise your property. Sometimes, the best marketing comes from experience and networking. The National Association of REALTORS® studies show that 82% of real estate sales are the result of agent contacts through previous clients, referrals, friends, family, and personal contacts. A REALTOR® can make sure your home reaches the maximum number of buyers through cooperation, advertising, and personal networking.
Please feel free to reach out if you would like a step by step guide to Selling Your Home.
Debra Ouellette, REALTOR®,SRES,ABR,SRS
Your Local Real Estate Professional
Direct: (978) 973-2327