As a first time home seller you may have many questions. Selling your home can be surprisingly time-consuming and emotionally challenging, especially if you’ve never done it before. At times it may feel like an invasion of privacy because strangers will come into your home, open your closets and cabinets, and poke around. They will criticize a place that has probably become more than just four walls and a roof to you, and, to top it all off, they will offer you less money than you think your home is worth.
With no experience and a complex, emotional transaction on your hands, it’s easy for first-time home sellers to make lots of mistakes. However, with a little know-how you can avoid many of these pitfalls. Read on to find out how to sell your house while getting the highest possible price within a reasonable time frame without losing your mind.
When is the best time to sell my home?
This question has many different answers as the timing preferences are different for everyone. Your first step should be to contact a local realtor that has knowledge of the current real estate market before spending too much time on minor details.
How much needs to be done before putting my house on the market?
This will depend on the current state of your home. If it is turn key ready, then not much should probably be done. But if you haven’t properly maintained your home during the duration of time that you have lived there, then the list or repairs and updates might be a little longer. Keep in mind we are trying to get you the most for your home and would only recommend what we thought would do just that.
How much is my house worth?
There are many factors in determining the worth of your home. Updates and upgrades, property value, square footage, added features like a pool, garage or finished additional living space.
How long will it take to sell my home?
Depending on the current market it could take as little as 30 days. It also depends on the type of sale. If you are selling your home as a short sale the process takes a little while longer as it requires third party approval and such.
Should I stage my vacant home or show it as is?
Staging is a great way to give potential buyers that warm and fuzzy feeling when they walk in. It helps them envision themselves living there and making it their own. It also gives a great idea of how furniture will fit in a space.
Should I be present when buyers view my home?
Seller Etiquette says no, you should not be. By not being present it allows the buyers to walk through your home and not feel pressured that they are taking too long.
What is the agent's commission?
Agent’s commissions are always negotiable, just like a lot of things in real estate. When selling your home, the listing agent puts out money to have professional photos, videos, for sale sign installation and removal as well as advertising and marketing all before getting paid their commission at settlement.
What are the best marketing strategies for advertising my home?
There are a lot of proven marketing strategies but what it comes down to is what and how you want your home marketed.
Do I need a realtor?
Having a realtor is not required to sell a home but it definitely helps ensure that everything is legal and managed in an effective and efficient way. When you hire a realtor as your Listing Agent, they represent you and your best interests for this transaction. They know how the market and real estate world works and can guide you through the whole process.