Are We in a Buyer’s Market? Home Selling Tips to Try Right Now

Real estate markets across the country are coming around toward balance, with prices leveling off and inventory of homes available for sale beginning to look ‘normal’. What does this mean if you’re getting ready to put your home on the market? A reshaping your strategy would be wise. These 5 tips will facilitate a faster and more profitable sale as the market cycle approaches buyer advantage.

Set the stage. While unique wall colors may not be a limiting factor in a seller’s market, when buyers rule, you may want to take the time to be sure your home is more pleasing to the masses. Paint walls neutral colors while you de-clutter, clean carpeting and stage each room. Place a warm, homey touch here and there to create atmosphere. Don’t hesitate to spend a bit on landscaping as first impressions mean much more than you might think. Necessary repairs is another area that is best attended to in advance… deferred maintenance tells a potential home buyer that there may be something worse lurking under the surface. Give your home an edge over the competition whenever and wherever you can.

Price it right. Ask your agent’s advice on how to price your home properly BEFORE you make up your mind. Your relatives, friends and neighbors likely have no idea when and how the market has shifted. Bidding wars may now be a thing of the past. Pricing your home too high can have you cooling your heals while your home leave your home listing becomes stale. Even if you’re not in a hurry, an old listing is yesterday’s news and home buyers are quick to move on. Consult with your agent to arrive at a competitive listing price.

Pick the right real estate agent. Do your homework! Choose an experienced agent, one who has perfected their strategy through several cycles of market fluctuations. When inventory is scarce and the market is hot, simply pricing your home right will sell it. When the opposite is true, you need a savvy negotiator to get your home sold in the shortest time for the best price.

Step up the marketing. Make sure you’re deploying an advantageous marketing plan for your home, including quality photos… lots of them, videos, individual web page, a variety of social media, and exposure on standardized listing portals. Walk through the details of the marketing plan with your agent so you understand exactly what tactics they have in their arsenal.

Be patient. If you’re flipping a home, now may not be the time. Job relocation will require precise timing. Selling a home for any reason in a buyer’s market, requires that you employ a specific series of negotiation procedures. Whatever your circumstances, speak with an expert. Understanding of local market conditions is critical to forming a realistic timeline and price structure.