5 Essential Steps for a Successful Home Sale

1. Prepare and Stage the Home

Set the stage! Imagine walking into a home that feels warm, inviting, and move-in ready. This is the experience potential buyers should have. Start with deep cleaning, decluttering, and making minor repairs. Next, stage the home to highlight its best features. Use neutral colors and tasteful decor to create a welcoming environment that allows buyers to visualize themselves living there. A well-staged home can significantly increase its appeal and value. 

Actionable Tips:

• Clean every nook and cranny, including windows, carpets, and walls.

• Remove personal items and excess furniture to make spaces appear larger.

• Use professional stagers.  We can help with this!

2. Price It Right

Think of pricing your home like casting a wide net to catch the biggest fish. Price it too high, and you may scare off potential buyers; price it too low, and you leave money on the table. Realtors conduct thorough market analysis to ensure you are positioned properly on the market. Setting a competitive price from the start can attract more interest and lead to quicker offers.

Actionable Tips:

• Review recent sales of comparable homes (comps) in your neighborhood.

• Consider the current market trends and local real estate conditions.

• Listen to your Realtor’s recommendations on pricing.

3. Maximize Online Presence

In today's digital age, your home's online listing is like its first open house. The majority of buyers start their search online, so it's crucial to make a great first impression. Professional photography, videography plus a compelling property description are paramount.  Be sure you highlight the home's unique features and the benefits of the neighborhood.

Actionable Tips:

• Ensure your Realtor uses professional photographers and videographers

• Proofread the property description and confirm it highlights details for your ideal buyer.

• Ensure the listing is on all major real estate platforms and social media.

4. Market Aggressively

Think of your home's sale as launching a product. To reach the right audience, you need a comprehensive marketing plan. This includes traditional methods like open houses and flyers, as well as digital marketing strategies like social media ads and email campaigns. The goal is to generate as much interest as possible.

Actionable Tips:

• Hire a Realtor that hosts open houses and private showings to attract different types of buyers.

• Study their social media platforms to see how they generate a buzz for their own listings.

• Ask questions! Ask to see sample marketing materials, or to speak to references.

5. Be Flexible and Responsive

Picture a buyer who falls in love with your home but has questions or wants to see it at a specific time. Being responsive and accommodating can make all the difference. Flexibility with showing times and quick responses to inquiries can keep potential buyers interested and engaged.

Actionable Tips:

• Keep your schedule open for showings, even on short notice.

• Respond promptly to questions and requests from your Realtor.

• Be open to negotiating terms to close the deal efficiently.

Now there are many moving pieces when it comes to selling a home.  However, focusing on these pieces in particular will have a substantial impact on your success.

Your friend in real estate,

Jen Queen