Selling requires doing your homework first and that homework is early preparation.  There are times when this is not possible due to life circumstances but nine times out of ten, you know the move is coming and selling is not a must do tomorrow thing.  Planning won't be as overwhelming if things are done in phases.  A few simple things can speed the process and make life a whole lot easier.

Make time to screen and interview multiple Realtors.  This is important as soon as a decision to sell is made.  You will be working as a team and communication is key.  Find an agent you feel comfortable with and who has an effective marketing strategy.  Do an online search to view their listings. He or she should demonstrate they market average priced listings just as vigorously as high end properties and use the internet to the fullest.  Make sure photos are posted and that property features are listed in MLS descriptions.  Avoid using an agent that is a friend or relative it will save possible problems down the road.

Be prepared and realistic about pricing.  Emotions and sentimental value are killers if figured into a listing price.  You must be aware and objectively consider current market conditions and how you stack up against the competition.  This may be hard to do but it will save you thousands of dollars and an overly long listing period.  All the preparation in the world will not sell an overpriced listing.

Begin to prepare for showings. The best way to start is to think back about what features you saw and liked when you were looking at your home during the buying process. Tour and assess your property visually.  Start at your front door as if you were viewing your home for the first time.  Take notes of what you notice both positive and negative.  Be as objective as you can.  If this is difficult, hire a professional Stager.  He or she can point out or make needed changes and improvements that will increase the value of your home.  This can take some of the stress off you.

Make a checklistof any unfinished projects you may see such as missing baseboard, squeaky doors, stained flooring; anything you may notice that has been bugging you for a while.  Every homeowner has that "honey do" list.  Go over it again, a Stager can help.  Your chosen agent will do this also to determine a listing price that stacks your property up against comparable properties in your neighborhood.  Compare notes and address the issues.

If you haven't missed it or are not using it pack it up.   Concentrate on your kitchen, closets and garage first and be realistic...are you really using all that stuff?  These are key areas where storage space should be highlighted to the max when selling.  Do you really need all those extra sheet and towel sets, pots, pans and small gadgets to live comfortably for a short time?  .

Consider having a professional home inspection, especially if your property is over 10 years old.  It could prevent potential headaches and roadblocks to a quick and smooth sale.  The low cost of this precaution could save you in the long run.

Doing your homework is vital but not difficult.  There are many resources available to homeowners from professional help to do it yourself guidance.  Take advantage of them and you will be rewarded well.

 

AccentPositives provides effective and economical Home Staging and Redesign Consultations on site and online.  We are located in Corona and serve the Inland Empire of Southern California and the Palm Springs area.  Call 951 833 8529. Email staging@accentpositives.com. Visit www.accentpositives.com and www.accentingspaces.com