1. Price the property properly.

Real estate is a substantial investment, and every seller wants to do well in the sale of their property. While it may be tempting to put a high price tag on a property, Sellers should understand that doing so will impede their efforts. Buyers may be disappointed that the house does not offer amenities to match the price tag, and they may no longer consider that property when other, similar houses are priced lower. A Buyer might not even consider viewing an overpriced house because they may assume that it is too difficult to negotiate with the Seller. The inevitable price changes and lengthy time on the market may give the impression that Buyers can just keep waiting for the price to come down even more, far below what the Seller is willing to take. Real Estate Agents can provide a comparative market analysis on current listings and recently sold properties that match the Seller's property so that the Seller can determine a fair and reasonable price. Contact us for a free comparative market analysis!

2. Advertise that your house is for sale!

After deciding what the asking price should be, a Seller needs to let everyone know that their home is for sale! Most Buyers today use real estate web sites to search for houses. Smart phones even have applications that are linked to internet listings! Post your property online! It is the single most effective way to market property. Advertise open houses and contact information so that the Seller can be reached easily to show the property. Advertisements in newspapers and real estate magazines are other methods of marketing property.

3. Prepare your home for sale.

Once a property is advertised as being for sale, it should be prepared for showing. Sellers should pay careful attention to the exterior of the property, as curb appeal often gets a Buyer's attention. Also, a well cared-for exterior sends the message that the inside of the house is in great shape. Mow the lawn, weed the flower beds, seal the driveway, check the paint or siding and the trim, and make sure the house number is easily visible. The interior should be clean, free from clutter, bright, and neutral in color. Click here for additional tips in preparing a home for sale.

4. Understand your rights and responsibilities.

Sellers should carefully read any papers they sign and understand the language in these contracts. The sale of property entails the use of many legal documents. A Seller's Agent should describe the purpose of each document, make clear the Seller's obligations, and explain the Seller's rights. An educated Seller will be better able to protect their best interests and be successful in closing on their property.

5. Secure the services of a skilled, competent Real Estate Agent.

A Seller's Agent will represent their client and protect the Seller's best interests. When a Seller is working with their own Real Estate Agent, the agent can access information about similar listings and recently sold properties that the Seller can consider before pricing the property. A Seller's Agent will also help with disclosures, negotiations, purchase and sales contracts, inspections, and closing. Before choosing an agent, Sellers should be aware that a Real Estate Agent is not a REALTOR®. A REALTOR® is a Real Estate Agent who works in accordance with a Code of Ethics that exceeds the standards of the law to maintain highly professional standards of honesty and integrity. Consider hiring a REALTOR® to represent you in what is likely one of the most significant financial transactions you will make!

Back to top ^