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1. Setting a Right Price.
By
pricing too high you run the risk of not being taken seriously by buyers and their agents and pricing
too low can result in selling for much less than you were hoping for.
a). Check out other open houses.
Compare the asking prices and what they
are actually selling for. If you set a higher price for your home
than your neighbor - don't expect it sells faster.
2. Tax Assessments / Home Evaluation.
Tax assessments are not a way of evaluating a home. Tax assessments are based on
criterias that may not be related to property values, so they not necessarily reflect your home's true value.
3. Know why you’re selling.
It is the factor that affects your asking price and how much time, money and effort you're willing to invest in order to prepare your home for sale. The reason you're selling is only for you to know.
4. Hiring an Agent.
Be sure you choose someone that you
trust and feel confident that they will do a good job on your behalf.
5. Home Appearances!
Appearance is critical for selling. The look and "feel" of your home will generate a greater emotional response than any other factor. Prospective buyers react to what they see, hear, feel, and smell even though you may have priced your home well.
6. Don't rely on your own judgment.
Seek the honest opinion of others. You need to be objective about your home's
good and bad points. Your agent should discuss what should be done to make your home more marketable.
7. Fix Everything.
Repair squeaks, light switches, any tiny cracks, because these can be deal-breakers and you'll never know what turns buyers off.
Decorate in neutral colors, like white or beige and place a few items to add warmth and character. Well-placed vase of flowers always give a good impressions.
8. Odors !!!
Smells like traces of food, pets and smoking odors can stop deals quickly. If prospective buyers know you have pets, or that you smoke, they'll start seeing stains that may not even exist. Don't leave any clues.
9. Disclose Everything.
Smart sellers are disclosing all known defects to their buyers in writing. This can reduce liability and prevent law suits later on.
10. Never Buy Your Next Home Until You Sell Your Current One.
Beware of closing on your new home while you're still making mortgage payments on the old one or you might end up becoming a seller who is desperate for the first deal that comes along.
11. Moving Out Before You Sell Can Put You at a Disadvantage.
Vacant home looks forgotten, no longer an appealing sight. Buyers start getting the message that you have another home and are probably motivated to sell. This could cost you thousands of dollars.
12. Ensure the Contract is Complete.
Ensure that all terms, costs and responsibilities are spelled out and what personal property is included (or not) in the sale.
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