As a seller, your relationship with a REALTOR is vital so meet
with several before making a final decision. A good place to start is
right in your neighbourhood. Check FOR SALE signs to see which
REALTORS are doing business in your area. Ask them about their track
record, their knowledge of neighbourhood selling prices and other
reasons why you should list with them. Choose a REALTOR you feel
comfortable with; one who will handle the sale of your home as if it
were his or her own.
Your REALTOR will help you understand the selling
process. He or
she will provide you with a full explanation of what to expect so
you are not faced with any surprises along the way.
One of the first things your REALTOR will ask is, Why are you
selling your house? Your REALTOR will also explore any time
constraints you may have, your financial situation and any future plans. Its
all part of getting to know you so the sale will be
handled to your complete satisfaction.
Arriving at an accurate estimate of value for your home is one of
your Realtors prime tasks. It involves analyzing your home and
comparing it to other, similar houses for sale or recently sold in
the neighbourhood. It may also include a broader market survey, using
sales statistics available only to qualified REALTORS. In the end,
you will be sure the price you set reflects the true value of your
home under current market conditions.
The single most important decision you will make with your Real
Estate Professional is determining the right asking price for your
property.
Once you've achieved a realistic sales price, you can count on
your property being professionally marketed and promoted to bring
more buyers to your door. You can also expect to sell your home for
the best possible price in the lease amount of time.
- Your property sells faster, because it is exposed to more
qualified buyers.
- Your home doesn't lose its "marketability."
- The closer to market value, the higher the offers.
- A well-priced property can generate competing offers.
- Real Estate Professionals will be enthusiastic about
presenting your property to buyers.
For a current market analysis of your home please feel free to
take advantage of a Free
Home Evaluation.
Its always a good idea to spruce up the exterior and interior of
your home before listing it for sale. But that doesn't mean you have
to undertake major and/or expensive project.
Just a little effort will greatly increase the perceived value of
your home. After all, if you wanted to undertake a large-scale
project, you probably wouldn't be selling!
Here are some simple steps you can take to increase the perceived
value of your home and make a great first impression.
- Keep lawns cut
- Trim hedges and shrubs
- Weed and edge gardens
- Clear driveway and clean up oil spills
- Clean out garage
- Power wash
- Touch up paint
- Plant colorful, inexpensive flowers in pots if necessary
- Clean porch and foyer
- Ensure door bell works
- Repair any broken screens
- Fresh paint or varnish front door
- Repair door locks and key access
- Make sure your home smells fresh and clean
- Turn on lights
- Turn on air conditioner/heater
- Open the drapes
- Light the fireplace
- Clear halls and stairs of clutter
- Store surplus furniture
- Clear kitchen counter and stove top
- Clear closets of unnecessary clothing and stuff
- Remove empty boxes and containers
- Put away personal photos so buyers can envision the house as
theirs
- Repair leaking taps and toilets
- Clean furnace and filters
- Tighten door knobs and latches
- Repair cracked plaster
- Apply fresh coat of pain or touch up where necessary
- Clean and repair windows
- Repair seals around tubs and basins
- Replace defective light bulbs
- Oil squeaking doors
- Repair squeaking floor boards
- Clean and freshen bathrooms
- Clean fridge and stove (in and out)
- Clean around heating vents
- Clean washer and dryer
- Clean carpets, drapes and window blinds
- Eliminate pet odors and stains
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