Sheryle DeGirolamo

Kensington Real Estate Brokerage      

   
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2.07.2009

Ideas on Selling Your Home Sweet Home In A Buyer's Market

Are you asking yourself "What does it take to sell a home in a buyer's market?" - a fresh coat of paint or perhaps a kitchen overhaul? Have you considered lowering the asking price or offering incentives? From cosmetic to strategic, smart sellers can take advantage of a few simple tips to get the most out of their properties. Here are the six strategies I have found, along with the my fellow professionals at Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage to secure a "sold" sign.

Boost Curb Appeal. Though they may be obvious, cosmetic upgrades like painting and planting can truly go a long way to formulating a fantastic first impression of a home. And, you know what they say, "you only get one chance to make a great first impression". Naturally be sure to clean, clean, clean!

Make Big Fixes Where Possible. If your budget permits, invest in bigger improvements. Focus on "make or break" rooms like bathrooms and kitchens, because nothing says "uninviting" like an unattractive cooking space. If budget is limited think about small home improvements in these areas which could help close the deal.

Let The Internet Work. Free online tools like the Coldwell Banker Home Tracker (www.coldwellbanker.com) or Home Value Estimator can assist in determining a property value including home improvements that have been made to the home. Using online resources allows a dialog with the real estate broker who can assist with setting the right price for the home. Or naturally you could give me a call for a complimentary competitive market analysis. Buyers may visit Zillow.com to compare your price, so you may want to check that site out.

Transparency is Golden. Getting a preliminary professional home inspection and sharing it with potential buyers may help them understand a home's condition and reinforce that everything is being done in a trustworthy and responsible manner. Make sure to be clear about recent improvements that have been made, and provide estimates on other optional upgrades - especially ones that can be included as part of the agreement.

Go The Extra Mile. Having the home pre-inspected is huge and follow up by making necessary repairs. Allow potential buyers to see the report and receipts for the work. Offering a home warranty could also sway a buyer to make a purchase on your home vs. another. Buying down mortgage rates or paying points on behalf of the buyer is a suggestion. Lastly, be open to ideas your Certified Home Marketing Specialist (CHMS)my have on the proper staging your interior and exterior furnishings to allow the buyer to truly appreciate your home.

Be Realistic. Selling in a buyer's market takes skill and strategy. In most markets, increased inventory has given buyers the opportunity to be selective in the home they want and the price they are willing to pay. Properly priced homes with consideration to condition and location are selling and a full time experienced sales associate will help determine what that price should be. Also understand that it normally takes a bit longer to sell a home in a buyer's market than in a seller's market.

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