How to Prepare Your Home for Sale in a Competitive Market

First Steps

1. Make Any Repairs That Are Needed.

The chipped tile in the bathroom, red wine stain on the carpet - all those little things add up. If buyers feel like there is work for them to do, they may be more hesitant to pay the price you are asking.

2. Do Some Market Research

By doing some thorough research, you can better understand how your home compares to similar properties in your area. Look for homes with a similar size, age, location and features that have recently sold. Also take a look at similar homes that are currently on the market, and the different strategies those sellers are using. That also includes looking at homes that don’t seem to be selling and why. This will all help you determine an appropriate price and strategy.

3. Connect With an Experienced Real Estate Agent.

A good real estate agent will be across the local market and offer you valuable insights and a very well thought out strategy. They will assist you through the whole selling process and will most likely already have some potential buyers on their radar.

4. Price Your Property Appropriately

Your real estate agent will help you price your property based on recent sales and market conditions. Your initial listing price sets your first impression to buyers. An attractive initial listing price is key to grabbing the attention of the right buyers and avoiding prolonged market exposure that can devalue your property.

Staging Your House for Display

5. Declutter and Depersonalise

Remove personal items and clutter to help buyers envision themselves in the space. This includes family photos, personal collections, and any clutter that might distract from the home’s features.

6. Highlight Key Areas

Focus on staging key areas like the living room, kitchen, and master bedroom. These areas often make the biggest impression. Use neutral colours and remove bulky furniture to make spaces seem larger and more welcoming. It could be worth hiring a professional to stage your home for you, particularly if it is a very high value home.

7. Address Curb Appeal

First impressions are everything. Enhance your home’s exterior with simple landscaping, a clean entryway, and a well-maintained façade. Consider painting the front door, adding new house numbers, and ensuring that the pathway to your door is inviting.

Marketing Your Property Effectively

8. Utilise Digital Marketing

Like any product today, digital marketing is critical when it comes to reaching potential buyers. Ensure that your listing has high-quality photos and a virtual tour if possible. Use social media platforms to increase visibility and engage potential buyers. Consider targeted ads that can reach local buyers or those looking to move into your area.

9. Professional Photography

Professional photography should be considered an investment not a cost. To get the right interest, you have to show your home in the best light. Who would want to drop $900 000 on a blurry iphone photo! Quality visuals are essential for online listings and promotional materials. A professional photographer knows how to capture the right angles and lighting to make your space look inviting and spacious.

10. Open Houses and Private Showings

Schedule open houses to give potential buyers a firsthand look at your property. Additionally, offer private showings to accommodate interested buyers who cannot attend open houses. Make sure your real estate agent is present to answer questions and highlight your home’s best features.

By following these steps, you can enhance your home's appeal to prospective buyers, potentially leading to a quicker sale at a better price in a competitive market.

Once your current home is sold, you might be thinking about your next purchase.

This is where IDEAL Financial Group can provide significant assistance. Our team of experienced mortgage brokers can help you secure financing for your next property, ensuring a smooth transition from selling to buying.

With access to a wide range of loan options, IDEAL Financial can tailor solutions to fit your new circumstances and financial goals, making your move to the next home as seamless as possible.

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