4 Mistakes To Avoid When Selling Your Home
If you are like many Americans, there is a good chance that your home is one of your largest investments. When you decide to sell, you probably want to make the biggest profit possible, and have the transaction go through without problems. Selling a home can be a complicated process, and a successful sale requires a lot more than just listing the house for sale. If you are planning to sell your home in the near future, avoid the following mistakes that many sellers make:
Hiring the Wrong Real Estate Agent
One of the single most important decisions sellers make is choosing a real estate agent to list their home. It is not a good idea to simply hire a real estate agent because he or she is a family member or friend. Savvy sellers know that several real estate agents should be interviewed before a contract is signed, and you should feel comfortable asking potential agents about their marketing plan and their average listing time before a home is sold. If possible, look for a real estate agent who specializes in working as a seller's agent.
Neglecting to Get a Home Inspection
Many sellers think that home inspections are just for buyers, but ordering an inspection on your home before listing it is a very smart thing to do. A home inspection will tell you of any problems that your home may have, so you can make repairs before potential buyers view your home. Getting a home inspection in advance will allow you to avoid any surprises when a buyer has an inspection done, and you will not need to make any expensive repairs right before closing.
Not Highlighting the Best Features of Your Home
A big part of getting your home sold is making sure it look its best. This may require some time, effort, and a financial investment, but a clean, organized home is a lot more appealing to potential buyers. Consider painting the walls if needed, removing clutter, and taking down personal items (such as family photos or memorabilia) so buyers can imagine living in your home with their own family. While making improvements to your home, don't forget about your front yard. Curb appeal is extremely important, as the exterior of your home is the first impression that potential buyers will have when they view your house.
Pricing Your Home Too High
It is natural to want to make as much money as you can when selling your home, but pricing it too high for your market is a huge mistake. When you hire a real estate agent, he or she will perform a comparative market analysis, which looks at what comparable homes in your area have sold for. When your agent suggests a sale price, take his or her recommendation seriously, and resist the urge to initially list it at a higher price.
