While it’s no secret the real estate market is down, houses are still selling. In fact, even in tough buyer’s markets, some homes will get a ton of showings and even multiple offers. So why isn’t yours getting the traffic you’d like?
Your CIR Realtor has probably offered some guidance but it’s sometimes hard for us, as sellers, to heed their advice or to see our home through the eyes of an apathetic buyer. Market conditions aside, there are some very basic things that can make your home stand out from the rest:
Price to sell
If you want to sell your home in a buyer’s market, you need to price it accordingly. Your Realtor will tell you what similar homes in your area are selling for to help you arrive at a reasonable listing price. Some sellers think it’s a good idea to price high at the start – but doing this can eliminate qualified buyers from ever seeing your home if your house is priced outside the ranges they’re searching for.
Prepare for showings
You want your home to stand out from other similar homes on the market in a good way! – so the condition of your home matters a lot. Consider what you can do to make your home show-worthy and don’t take offense if your Realtor suggests decluttering, hiding personal items like collectibles and family photos, or removing evidence of furry friends.
Extensive repairs or renovations are generally not needed (your asking price should reflect this), but a little TLC can go a long way. Consider fixing small things like sticking doors and drawers, loose baseboards and cupboard doors, or adding a fresh coat of paint to brighten drab areas. Replace burnt out light bulbs and make sure your house is clean and tidy for every showing.
If you have a lot of stuff, pack it up. It’s easier for buyers to envision living in your space when it’s clutter-free. This means simplifying décor, removing personal items, and clearing out half your closet to make spaces appear larger and more appealing. Home staging is also a great option in competitive markets.
Does your house smell bad? This is the first thing potential buyers will notice when they walk through your door. Strong scents left by pets, urine, mildew, or even strong air fresheners, will deter buyers. If you want a quick sale, you need to get rid of the smells for good.
Create curb appeal
What can you do to create stunning curb appeal and a great first impression? Clean your windows and siding, ensure the lawn is well maintained, and remove any clutter from the alley, yard, or walkway. Adding flowers or shrubs can quickly create a homey look for minimal cost. In the winter, ensure the driveway and walkways are always clear of ice and snow and adding a snowman in the yard or classic holiday decorations can also help make your home stand out.
Use really great photos
Most buyers start their search online, so talk to your Realtor about hiring a professional to take photographs that highlight the best features of your home – inside and out. Don’t use pictures from your phone, make sure no one is in the photograph (no mirror reflections, please!), and decluttering and hiding personal items before having the photos taken is a good idea.
Selling a home is stressful under any market condition and having limited showings and no offers can be discouraging. Talk to your CIR Realtor about their marketing plan and be open to the ideas suggested above (and other ideas your Realtor has) to make your home stand out in a buyer’s market.
Written by CIR REALTY
