Today’s market is definitely a seller’s market with low inventory and high buyer’s demand. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows that homes are on the market typically just 18 days. Although you have a leg up when it comes to selling your home in the current market, there are still tips you can follow to make sure you get the best possible return on your home.
1. Make Buyers Feel at Home
According to NAR’s 2021 Profile of Home Staging, 82% of buyers’ agents said staging a home made it easier for a buyer to visualize the property as a future home. Eighteen percent of sellers’ agents said home staging increased the dollar value of a residence between 6% and 10%. A great way to start this process is by decluttering your home. Remove personal items such as photos, awards and sentimental belongings. A buyer doesn’t want to come into a home and see a picture of your family. Neutral colors and a clean space are more welcoming for potential buyers. They want to be able to come into the space and envision themselves in the home.
“Staging a home helps consumers see the full potential of a given space or property…It features the home in its best light and helps would-be buyers envision its various possibilities,” says Jessica Lautz, Vice President of Demographics and Behavior Insights for NAR.
2. Keep It Clean
This is an obvious detail but many sellers do overlook this simple step. A buyer does not want to come into a home that is not tidy. Always keep your house neat and clean when listed. A buyer could pop in and you want to make sure everything is picked up off the floor, the beds are made and the dishes washed. A messy home can distract a buyer and make your home less appealing to them.
Smells are another big factor. You want your home to smell fresh and clean before a buyer walks in. NAR reported that the buyers remember the smell of a home, especially in the kitchen. Remember to always keep your kitchen smelling fresh and clean.
3. Give Buyers Acess
Make your home available to show at most anytime. If it is hard for a buyer to come and look at your home, they might pass it up. The more flexible your schedule, the more opportunities for multiple buyers to come and take a look.
4. Price It Right
This is still important even in a seller’s market. Home prices are on the rise, but you still need to price your home right for its neighborhood. A home that is priced right has the maximum selling potential. A home that is priced too high can actually detour a home buyer. Even though you price your home right for the market, the bidding wars will more than likely push the final sales price up.
Most importantly, work with a trusted Realtor in your area. A local sales agent can list your home for the right price and help you through the process. Remember a Realtor can help determine the best ways to maximize the sale of your home in today’s market.
