As many people know, selling a home today during this real estate downturn can be very stressful for a seller. As a result many homes sit on the market for months on end as the foreclosure inventory many areas is still being picked over which can drive down home prices.
Now, as the spring home shopping season begins, it should be noted that buyers, not sellers, are in the driver's seat in many markets, and buyers are fully aware of this fact. That's why if you're planning on putting your home on the market it's crucial to understand what it will take to make your home a successful sell.
First, you need to find the right agent for you. You can go about doing this by researching agents online and see their ratings and reviews. Understanding how agents have worked for their clients in the past can certainly save you time and money in the future. With the information you find on the internet or from friends you will be able to make a more informed decision on which agent will best suit your needs. Furthermore, it's always best to try and interview at least three agents before making your final decision.
Once you find your perfect agent it is always best to make sure that your agent has experience using today's technology to market your home such as using Facebook and Twitter. Why, because 90 percent of home buyers today use the Internet to search for a home.
Secondly, gather information on comparable listing prices and home sales in your area. See if you can find out how long some of these homes are usually on the market. With this information you can have a better informed discussion with your agent about what should be the appropriate price for your home.
Next, go out and see the homes in your neighborhood that are for sale for sale and ask your agent what today's buyers are looking for in a home. This way you will be able to objectively see how your home stacks up against other homes that are for sale in your neighborhood.
Lastly, if at all possible, try not to be home when there is a showing. When sellers are following buyers around it makes them nervous. As a result, the buyers won't be comfortable looking through the house when they feel like they're being watched. During the look through buyers are trying to visualize the home as if it were their own and when they have some privacy looking through your home they can have a chance to discuss the home among themselves.
One final thought, ask your agent to not be present for all showings because other agents want to be alone with their buyers and secondly other agents do not always have the time to work around your agent's schedule.
By using these few suggestions, you will help ensure that your home will sell more easily and that you will be able to make all parties involved in the sale of your home more comfortable and relaxed in working with you and your agent. That is a true win/win situation.