Are you ready to put your home up for sale for the first time? Purchasing a home is one hurdle, but selling it is a different ball game altogether. With the right planning and preparation, you can not only maximize your return, but you can also ensure a swift and smooth process for your next move. We’ve gathered six essential tips that are pertinent when it comes to putting your home on the market for the first time.
Find the Right Agent
Some homeowners tend to take on the burden themselves of selling their home, however, finding a seasoned agent that knows your market area and is an expert at marketing is going to go a lot further than your own efforts. We strongly suggest interviewing a few agents if you haven’t already worked with one before. A qualified agent has the right tools and resources to make the most of your dollar.
Research the Best Time to Put Your Home on the Market
Spring and summer are notorious for being the best times of the year to sell, but depending on your location and market conditions, this may not always be the case. According to Zillow, the best time of year to sell your home is the first half of May. Homes listed for sale in this window sold six days faster than average, and sold for $1,600 more.
Pinpoint the Right Sales Price
Pricing your home competitively is essential for when selling your home. A home that is not accurately priced is going to have a lot harder time selling, and may not be advantageous for you. According to studies, “nearly 60% of homes nationwide sell at or above listing price when they accept an offer in the first week. In the second week, however, that drops seven percent and continues to trend downward as the weeks go on.” (HSH)
Stage your Home and Use High-Quality Photos
Potential homebuyers are now doing all of their home searches online before even reaching out to schedule a showing, or attend an open house. Nowadays, many agents are utilizing 3D tours and high-quality videos and photos to proudly present listings online. Its imperative that when you go to list your home on the market, that you not only have top notch photography and/or visuals, but that it is staged with quality design and furniture to better illustrate the beauty of your home. Be sure to declutter and remove unwanted items before your scheduled photography session.
Prepare for Moving
You’ve accepted an offer, the buyers are securing their financing, and now it is time to consider your moving plan. Maybe your next move is within the city and can be done with the help of family and friends, or perhaps its across the country. Regardless of your situation, we strongly encourage adequate planning on moving and securing a moving company well in advance of closing to ensure there aren’t any hiccups between now and then.
Be Ready for Closing Day
You’ve established a closing date and the buyers are almost to the finish line! Discuss with your agent all the potential documents you’ll need to provide and review, and be sure to set a timeline with them on when those need to be accomplished. Go through an item inventory checklist of what needs to stay when you pack your things, and what can come with. For example, any smart home systems that may be included in the buyer’s purchase, or manuals and warranties for appliances that come with the home.