Pricing a home competitively from the beginning is important. "Your largest number of showings will occur in the first two to three weeks. The (multiple listing service) systems and the Internet tend to drive the majority of showings. That’s why real estate experts stress that it’s important sellers get a competitive, realistic price from the beginning.
Consider sweetening the deal. Sellers may be able to lure more buyers by offering some extra incentives, whether that’s leaving some upplinces, dryer, washing machine, flat screen TV, paying closing costs, buying down the rate, home warranty etc. The better your offer, the quicker you can sell.
Make sure the home is show-ready and in move-in condition. In smaller homes, for example, clutter can mean the difference between cozy and cramped, experts say. Be sure the sellers keep homes clean and clear of clutter, particularly kitchen and bathroom countertops that tend to accumulate personal items that can hamper showing the home’s features. Also make sure that you have curb appeal, if not buyers won't be interested in looking inside your home, if they drive by and your exterior is not appealing.
However, make sure sellers don’t go to the other extreme and clear away too much.
"Don't neutralize it so that it's sterile," says Pat Vredevoogd Combs, vice president of Coldwell Banker AJS Schmidt in Grand Rapids, Mich., adding that small mementos and photos help make a house feel like a home.
Real estate experts also stress the importance of sellers’ getting a home in move-in condition--such as fixing all repairs and replacements--before it is even listed.
"From a presentation standpoint, you want them to feel it's turnkey -- ready to go," says Mark Ramsey, broker with the Ramsey Group/Keller Williams Realty in Charlotte, N.C. "Because your competition is doing that. In this market, it's not just a price war but a beauty contest at the same time."
No comments:
Post a Comment