How to Sell Your Home this Fall- Checklist

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Selling

Judith Sutton ABR CRS IDS PMN ASP IAHSP SRES GREEN

Judy@JudithSutton.com   908 803-0472

EXPECT MORE

Today’s housing market is different than it was just a few months ago. And if you’re thinking about selling your house, that may leave you wondering what you need to do differently as a result. The answer is simple: Taking the time upfront to prep your house appropriately and create a solid plan can help bring in the greatest return on your investment.

Here are a few simple tips to make sure you maximize the sale of your house this fall,

Price It Right

One of the first things buyers will notice is the price of your house. That’s because the price sends a message to home shoppers. Pricing your house too high, to begin with, could put you at a disadvantage by discouraging buyers from making an offer. On the flip side, pricing your house too low may make buyers worry there’s some underlying issue or something wrong with the home.

 

Your goal in pricing your house is to gain the attention of prospective buyers and get them to make an offer. And with price growth and buyer demand moderating, as well as a greater supply of homes available for sale, pricing your home appropriately for where the market is today has become more important than ever before.

But how do you know that perfect number? Pricing your house isn’t a guessing game. It takes skill and expertise. Work with a trusted real estate advisor to determine the current market value for your home. I use the latest data and up-to-the-minute pricing for your home in your particular marketplace to determine your home's optimal list and selling price.

Keep It Clean

It may sound simple but keeping your house clean is another key to making sure it gets the attention it deserves. As realtor.com says in the Home Selling Checklist:

When selling your home, it’s important to keep everything tidy for buyers, you never know when a buyer is going to want to schedule a last-minute tour.”

Before each buyer visits, assess your space and determine what needs your attention. Doing simple things like putting away all clutter can reduce potential distractions for buyers.

For more tips, here is a checklist for preparing your house for sale. Ultimately an agent is your best resource for tailored advice, but this list can help get you started.

HOME SELLING CHECKLIST:

Open the blinds and curtains and let the light in!
Clean your vents and baseboards
Power wash all outdoor surfaces
Replace lightbulbs where needed
Vacuum and clean all floors
Clean the windows inside and out
Remove personal photos and items
Declutter and donate
Address the landscaping
Fix broken items
Organize cabinets, countertops, and closets
Freshen up the foyer
Give every room a clear purpose
Paint scuffs and dings on the walls
Sweep patios, decks, and walkways


Some Highlights

  • When it comes to selling, you want it to look its best inside and out so it catches the attention of buyers. A real estate professional can help you decide what to do to make that happen.
  • Focus on tasks that can make it inviting, show it’s cared for, and boost your curb appeal.
  • Connect with a trusted real estate professional for advice on what you may want to do to get your house ready to sell! I am here as your trusted advisor to help.  Call me when you are ready.

 

Help Buyers Feel at Home

Finally, it’s important for buyers to see all the possible ways they can make your house their next home. An easy first step to creating this blank canvas is removing personal items, like pictures, awards, and sentimental belongings. It’s also a good idea to remove any excess furniture to help the rooms feel bigger and make sure there’s ample space for touring buyers to stand and look at the layout.

If you’re unsure what should be packed away and what can stay, consult your trusted real estate advisor. Spending the time on this step can pay off in the long run. As an article from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) explains:

Staging is the art of preparing a home to appeal to the greatest number of potential buyers in your market. The right arrangements can move you into a higher price-point and help buyers fall in love the moment they walk through the door.”

Bottom Line

Selling a house requires prep work and expertise. If you’re looking to sell your house this season, lean on a trusted real estate professional for advice on how to get it ready to list, how to help it stand out in today’s shifting market, and more. Call me.  I can help.

"...Smarter tools, to help make smarter decisions..."

Judy@JudithSutton.com  

 908 803-0472
"...the right relationship means everything..."
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