Selling your home involves many steps, and even minor missteps along the way can add up to be costly. Keep these on your radar...
1. Pricing It Right from the Start
Pricing too high can result in your home sitting on the market too long, leading to reduced buyer interest and forcing you to lower the price—sometimes below what you originally would have listed it for. On the other hand, pricing too low means leaving money on the table. Work with a real estate agent who can apply a strategic pricing strategy based on market analysis and your home's unique attributes. Don't hesitate to ask your agent to explain the strategy behind his or her pricing suggestion.
2. Preparing for the Appraisal
Did you know you can leave a list of improvements in your home for the appraiser to see? Highlight upgrades like energy-efficient windows, a new roof, or updated systems to ensure these valuable features aren't overlooked.
In rare cases, if your appraisal comes back unfavorable and you believe there was a mistake—such as very old comparable sales being used or inaccuracies in the report—your realtor can challenge it. While winning these challenges isn’t common, it’s important to ensure the comparables used are appropriate and the information about your home is accurate. Everyone makes mistakes, so double-checking these details is key.
3. Navigating the Home Inspection
Do you know who sees inspection reports all the time and knows the common issues inspectors often flag? Your real estate agent. They can point out areas that inspectors typically scrutinize. This doesn’t mean you have to fix everything, but information is power. Then you can decide.
Addressing issues that are likely to be flagged will prevent a growing list of concerns on the inspection report, which could prompt buyers to start requesting concessions.
4. Staging and Presentation
Right or wrong, many buyers judge a book by its cover and struggle to see beyond their first impression. Poor staging can turn buyers away and lead to fewer offers. Investing in professional staging or making simple updates like decluttering and fresh paint can highlight your home’s best features and attract more interest. Many sellers overlook this step, but time and again, it’s proven to impact both the speed and price of a home sale.
5. Understanding Closing Costs
Sellers often underestimate closing costs, such as agent commissions, transfer taxes, and attorney fees. To avoid last-minute surprises and ensure a smooth closing, request a detailed breakdown of all expenses early in the process so you know exactly what to expect.
Did you know you can shop around for a title company to handle your closing? Comparing different title companies allows you to find one that offers competitive rates, excellent customer service, and a solid reputation. While your real estate agent or attorney can provide recommendations, the choice of title company is ultimately yours. Taking the time to choose the right title company can help you manage costs and ensure a seamless closing experience.
Thanks for reading... Briana
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