VIVA PROPERTIES: SELLER'S TIPS
FACTORS
- Competition; The number of houses currently on the market in your neighborhood will directly affect the sale of your home. If buyers perceive that there are many similarly priced houses with comparable floor plans on the market, they may lose their sense of urgency and wait for you or your neighbors to lower the asking price.
On the other hand, if there are more buyers looking in your neighborhood than there are houses available, your house may sell at a higher price.
- Timing; How quickly do you need to sell? If you're relocating or have purchased a new home and need to move quickly, it's better to be a little conservative and not list at the upper end of the price range.
Otherwise, you can consider more aggressive pricing but be aware that when a home sits on the market too long, it is viewed as "stale" by many real estate agents. Right after a house goes on the market is usually when it generates the most interest from both agents and buyers. In addition, the longer it sits on the market, the more you run the risk of higher interest rates which will reduce the number of qualified buyers.
Setting the price too high may actually help your neighbors sell their houses and prove detrimental to your efforts.
- Condition; The age of your house and the current physical condition are important components when it comes to setting a price. Has your house been well-maintained? Have you done any recent repairs or remodeling? Made any recent improvements?
Are the appliances included with the sale? If they are, how old are they? These are all factors affecting the price of your house. While all homeowners have their own preferences, neutral paint and carpet are usually more attractive to prospective purchasers.
- Price; Everyone wants to get the highest price for their house but setting an artificially high price impedes the sale since it will severely limit the number of interested buyers. Remember that our goal is to get your house sold, not to just list it.
PREPARING YOUR HOUSE TO SELL:
You want to make certain that prospective buyers have a favorable impression of your house as soon as they see it.
Create an Overall Please "Curb Appeal"
- Keep lawn mowed
- Trim overgrown bushes and remove dead plants
- Clean gardening area and remove weeds
- Remove porch clutter
- Paint front door if necessary
Remove Clutter
- Kitchen counter
- Top of the refrigerator
- Front of the refrigerator
- Closets
- Built-in Shelves
- Bathroom Counters
- Dining room table
- Garage
Make the House Sparkle
- Remove dirty dishes
- Put away clothes and laundry
- Make beds
- Stow toys
- Clean floors
- Paint if needed
- Keep fresh flowers in vases
- Clean curtains, drapes and blinds
Create a Clear Path Through the House
- Arrange furniture for easier maneuvering
- If necessary, put furniture in storage
- Keep stairways and corridors clear
- Clean out the garage
Eliminate Odors
- Remove pet and smoke ordors