Archive for January 8, 2009
A Few Tips To Help Your House Sell In This Market
It is easy to become overwhelmed when you need to sell your house in a current market like ours. The good news is that houses are still selling! Just know that it will take a little longer. Here are some things to keep in mind:
1. Be realistic about your asking price. If you start even a tiny bit too high, you will most likely end up chasing the market down and end up getting less than you would have at a correct starting price.
2. Know that there are agents out there who will say you can get a higher price for your house in order to get your business. They will probably ask you to lower the price a couple weeks later or may be using your house to get sign calls.
3. Really study the comparable home “solds” and don’t get fooled by “active” homes that are still listed. You are not on the market to hang out with other “actives”, but to get your house sold and get on with your life.
4. If your home does not have the upgrades, really focus on getting it super clean and smelling great. Clean the carpets and don’t let anyone smoke in or near it. Think of yourself as a young mother – do you want your baby crawling around in your house? Remember to clean the windows and dust the window sills.
5. There is a huge difference between living in your house and selling your house. Get all the clutter picked up, boxed up, and out of sight. Don’t worry about throwing things out if you are a collector. The first goal is to get your house sold. You will have plenty of time to sort and throw things out later.
6. View your house from the street. Does it have street appeal? If not, maybe do a little clean up and add a little decorative touch with some cute, inexpensive plants or flowers.
7. Although you can try to sell your house “as is”, the truth is that buyers and appraisers can get very nit-picky. If you are able to do some simple repairs or paint where needed, then please do. If you have not had your furnace cleaned and serviced recently, just know that a buyer’s inspector will be looking for that little service sticker.
8. Choose a competent agent who will work hard for you, will be very accessible, and who you want to be part of your family for a few months. Getting a buyer is only part of the selling process. Once the offer is accepted, your real estate agent also needs to know the contract well, stay on top of all the time frames and be communicating well with many different parties to get your home sold with less complications and on-time. Smooth talkers don’t always walk their talk.
Any questions? Karen Wallace of John L Scott Real Estate can be reached at (206) 910-8807. She works in and around Seattle and its suburbs from Edmunds to Enumclaw.
