Even with the stories about over the top offers and homes that sell in minutes, there are still important steps to take before listing your home in a hot real estate market. We asked G Stiles Realty broker Nathan Johnson for expert advice on listing your home.
Everyone knows the real estate market is historically hot right now.
People are jumping at the chance to cash in on the increasing value of their homes.
Nathan at G Stiles Realty says no matter how hot the market may be, sellers can maximize the value of their home with these sellers’ tips. Here is Nathan’s advice on listing your home in a hot real estate market:
- Contract with a realtor. It might be tempting to try listing your home yourself, but a real estate agent with knowledge in the local market and some history in the area will always pay dividends in time, money, and your own sanity. A realtor knows what similar homes in the area have sold for to help set your sales price. Realtors can coordinate visits from other agents and their clients, and provide marketing to make sure people know they can make an offer on your property.
- Curb appeal is still huge. The first impression someone gets on a home often leads to an offer. That impression begins as soon as the potential buyer pulls up to the house. Before listing your home, spend some time and money on your yard. Trim the trees, spread some bark dust, and plant some flowers. Keep the lawn mowed and watered.
- Put some effort into the areas people will see as they walk up to the house. Power wash the sidewalks, patio, and porch. Replace the lightbulbs and wash the exteriors of the windows. A few hundred dollars in fresh paint will also improve the value of your home.
- It may seem obvious, but cleanliness also pays off. Make sure your house doesn’t smell of cats or dogs. Scented candles or the classic brownies in the oven trick can also score points with prospective buyers.
- One more thing that has become critical when listing your home in a hot market: be on your toes and ready to give quick access to your listing on short notice. Have a plan on where you will go to kill 45 minutes with an hour’s notice (or less).
- Coming to a decision on the listing price of your home is still very important. The difference in a hot market is that it’s not the end of the world if you start off too high. If it takes two weeks to get that first offer, it’s fine. In a hot market, a home that is priced right will get several offers in a short period of time. Also, it’s good to set a date for when you want to review the offers and let other brokers know about the deadline.
Nathan’s last piece of advice is for people who are selling a rental property. Make sure the current renters are not living in the house while you are trying to sell it. It may seem obvious, but there are some unforgettable stories about potential home buyers encountering renters living in the home.
If you’re looking to list your property, it’s important to do so in a way that will maximize your return on investment. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Determine the right listing price by consulting with a real estate agent who is familiar with recent sales in your area.
- Get your home or business ready for sale by decluttering, deep cleaning, and making any necessary repairs or renovations.
- Take high quality photos of your property that will be used in the listing.
By following these tips, you can be sure that you are getting the most out of listing your home.
G Stiles Realty is an independent real estate office that has been in business since 1977. As an independent firm, G Stiles Realty can ensure the agent you choose will be the same one who is by your side through the entire real estate transaction. This can be critically important when seconds count.
Learn more about listing your home here: https://www.gstiles.com/sell-your-house/