If you've decided to sell your home, chances are you're caught up in a host of emotions. Whatever turbulent feelings you're experiencing right now, there are plenty of practical matters that need your attention.
List your home quickly
It's a good idea to place your home on the market as far in advance as possible of purchasing a new one. If you find a new home first and then try to sell your present home, you may wind up with two mortgages.
Give your home a good look from the outside
If your home is visually appealing and in good condition it will attract potential buyers driving down the street. In particular ask yourself the following questions:
- Are the lawns and shrubs well maintained?
- Are there cracks in the foundation or walkways?
- Does the driveway need resurfacing?
- Are the gutters, chimney and walls in good condition?
- Do the window casings, shutters, siding or doors need painting?
- Are garbage and debris stored out of sight?
- Are lawn mowers and hoses properly stored?
- Is the garage door closed?
Decide whether to sell it yourself or go with an agent
If you decide to sell your home yourself in order to avoid paying commission charges to a real estate agent, keep in mind that you will be responsible for placing ads, answering phones and showing your home to potential buyers. However, if you choose to retain an agent, they'll handle all those responsibilities and will also help you:
- Establish a fair asking price for your home.
- Promote your home to other agents and list your property in multiple listing services.
- Create, place and pay for advertising for your home.
- Schedule appointments to show your home to prospective buyers, even when you are not there.
- Weed out buyers who will not qualify for a mortgage.
- Find sources for insurance, inspections, legal counsel and financing.
- Negotiate with the buyer.
- Help make your home more attractive to a potential buyer.
Set a fair price
Naturally, you want to get top dollar for your home. But, at the same time, you don't want to scare off potential buyers with a price tag that's too high. Setting an artificially high price may cause your property to languish on the market for months. Reducing your asking price later on may lead buyers to wonder if there is something wrong with your home.
Sources
- U.S.D.A. Cooperative Research, Education and Extension Service
- Real Estate Educators Association
