If you are preparing to sell your home this year, here are some tips to set yourself up for a successful transaction.
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Do Your Research
Some experts say summer is the best time to sell but if you consider there are fewer homes on the market in the winter, waiting may be preferable. To find a list of comparable homes and see when the most sales have occurred in your area, consider creating a Zillow account and use some tried and true home calculations.
Similarly, Redfin is another source for homeowners to find local sales data. While these sites can differ, they give a rough estimate of what ballpark you are looking at when you sell.
Declutter and Clean
Do an inventory of what areas need to be decluttered and cleaned. Make a checklist of rooms and areas and give yourself a daily goal. Begin packing up knick-knacks, personal pictures and frames, and get a jump start on the moving process.
“As you declutter, relocate boxes to a storage site, shed, garage or consider renting a movable storage container. Getting the house ready for listing pictures and viewings will make your job easier down the line.” – Tip by Tampa Buyers Agent
Enhance Curb Appeal
If your lawn is browning or weeds have gotten away from you, take some time to spruce up your outdoor landscape. Remove weathered outdoor chairs and decor that take away from your home’s charm. Add some flowers or greenery and brighten up your flowerbeds with bark or mulch.
Assess whether trees or shrubs are broaching walkways and take some time to trim them back. Power wash the driveway and patio spaces to give the area a fresh, clean look.
Choose an Agent
Do your research on local real estate agencies and their top-selling agents. Ask friends and neighbors for recommendations. The best way to find an agent is word of mouth from a satisfied client. Once you select an agent, ask for feedback on your home’s value and what would help increase your home’s appeal.
Make Your Home Inviting
Before the house has viewings, replace light bulbs, add lighting to dark rooms (think of extra lamps/light fixtures), touch up scuffed paint, and fix broken handles, cabinets, switches and anything that might detract from the home.
Make sure it smells nice. Purchase air fresheners or bake bread to leave out on the day of a showing so your house smells like home to a prospective buyer.
Allow Flexible Appointments
Not everyone has the same work schedule so it’s helpful to be flexible and allow appointments as much as possible. It may not be an ideal time for you to leave the home but with the goal of selling quickly and for the best price possible, it’s optimal to allow as many showings as feasible and to be flexible to potential buyer’s needs.
