When it comes time to list your property, most sellers' dream is to have a quick closing and an over-asking offer. Despite some areas of the sale being out of one’s control, i.e. current real estate market, there are a number of things a homeowner can do that will help that dream come true!

 "By taking action and leveraging these tips, you can navigate the complexities of the real estate market with confidence," says Brady Bridges of Residedfw.com. "The journey of selling your home is not just about closing a deal; it's about moving forward to new beginnings with the satisfaction of knowing you've maximized your investment." 

Preparing Your Home for Sale

Real estate agents will confirm that one of the most important things a seller can do prior to listing their home is to thoroughly prepare it for the market. This preparation goes beyond simple cleaning and decluttering; it encompasses a range of tasks from minor repairs, such as fixing leaky faucets and patching holes in walls, to possibly undertaking more significant updates like painting walls in neutral colors to appeal to a broader audience. However, if your home needs significant repairs and you want to sell it quickly, it might be more practical to sell it as-is. Several companies specialize in purchasing homes in their current condition. For instance, residents of Moreno Valley, CA can search "sell my home fast in Moreno Valley" online to find businesses like Haven Homebuyers, which cover all repair and closing costs.

Pricing Your Home Right

Deciding on a selling price is a delicate balance that requires a deep understanding of the local real estate market. To set a price that is both competitive and profitable, sellers must consider a couple factors which include recent sales of similar homes in their area, current market trends, and the unique attributes of their property. 

Utilizing professional appraisal services and conducting a comparative market analysis (CMA) are two helpful services that can guide sellers when deciding their list price. An appraisal provides an expert's valuation of the home, considering its condition, location, and features, while a CMA offers insight into how similar properties have been priced and how long they remained on the market. 

Marketing Your Home Effectively

Once your home is show ready, and important details such as pricing are set, the next step is to get the word out! In today’s technologically-inclined market, buyers' first stop is going to be online. Having high-quality, professional photos of your listing is essentially your digital “first impression”. And, since people have less and less time to venture out to homes, taking it one step further with a virtual tour can help draw in interested buyers. 

Working with a Knowledgeable Real Estate Agent

Though tempting to list your home without the use of a real estate agent, stats will show that route is not the most financially advantageous. According to the NAR, homes that were sold by owners saw a median price of $310,000 upon closing, which is significantly lower than those who opted to work with an agent, which netted $405,000. 

While these stats highlight the benefits of real estate agents, it is also important to choose the right agent. Asking for referrals, looking at recent listings and having a sit down meeting with a prospective agent are all things sellers can do to ensure they are working with the best!

Staging Your Home for Success

Many sellers assume that prepping their home to sell is the same as staging. This is simply not the case! Staging a home for sale goes beyond cleaning and decluttering to evaluating the space to show off the home's potential. This is something that a seller can do personally, or use a staging company to assist. A properly staged home will allow buyers to see the home’s best features, and can make a huge difference in terms of interest and offers. 

Handling Offers and Negotiations

When offers start coming in, it's essential to assess not only the proposed purchase price but also any contingencies that buyers may include, such as requests for repairs, closing cost assistance, or specific closing dates. These contingencies can impact the overall desirability and feasibility of an offer. Negotiating effectively is key to maximizing your profit while maintaining a fair deal for both parties. This often involves counter-offering to meet in the middle on price points or contingencies, ensuring you get the best possible terms without risking the sale. Understanding the contract terms and obligations is equally important; it's crucial to have a thorough grasp of what you're agreeing to, including timelines, warranties, and what happens in the event of contract breaches. 

Closing the Deal

This stage involves coordinating inspections and appraisals, crucial steps that ensure the property meets the buyer's expectations and lending requirements. It's also a time when any last-minute concerns or issues can surface, requiring prompt and effective resolution to keep the sale on track. The final step, completing the sale and transferring ownership, is a moment of culmination where all parties come together to finalize the transaction. It's a process that demands meticulous organization and clear communication, ensuring a smooth transition for both buyer and seller.

Selling a home is more than just a financial transaction, it can also be an emotional one. Having a quick, stress-free and top-dollar sale will allow sellers to focus on what lies ahead!