Selling a home can be a tricky process - there’s so much to think about during the process, all the while you’re handling the excitement and planning that comes with the moving process. We want to make sure you’re equipped with all the tools you need to successfully navigate the sale, so keep reading to pick up some tips.
Take Your Time Preparing
Being fully ready to sell your home by the time it’s listed is absolutely essential if you want to have a good experience. Your home will sell more effectively if you’re totally committed to the selling process - you don’t want to have any doubts once your home is put on the market. Ask yourself why you’re selling as this will be useful information for your real estate agent. This is also a frequently asked question from buyers, so definitely have an answer prepared.
Don’t Skimp on Presentation
You can’t underestimate the importance of presentation when it comes to selling a home. It has been proven that homes sell better when staged, especially when they have minimal furniture and a fresh coat of paint. Committing to this may mean having to live without some of your usual comforts during the showing period, but it’s a sacrifice that will pay off in the end. It also would be a good idea to hire a professional photographer to take pictures of your staged home - having high quality photos accessible online will make all the difference in a market that is increasingly virtual.
Price Your Home Appropriately
Pricing is a huge factor that contributes to how long your home will be on the market. To find out how much your home is worth, you’ll want to hire a professional appraiser - the extra money you spend on this will be well worth it. If your home isn’t priced competitively the first time, it could ultimately end up selling for less than it’s worth. You should also consult your agent about the area’s typical pricing and see how the appraisal price compares.
Understand the Cost of Selling
Selling your home does mean an influx of cash, but you’ll also need to spend some money in order to get to that point. Factoring in these costs as part of your preparation is essential to making sure you really understand what you’re getting yourself into. Here are some costs to consider:
Agent Commission
Ask your real estate agent what their commission rate is and how long they anticipate your home will be on the market. Your agent’s commission is likely the highest fee you will pay throughout this process, but having an agent is instrumental in maintaining your sanity throughout this process.
Repairs to your home
In addition to some cosmetic tweaks that will help boost the appeal of your home, buyers will likely have some qualms with at least one aspect of your home. You should budget for some additional repairs, including anything deemed necessary by the home inspector.
Staging
Staging is an essential step in allowing the buyer to envision themselves in your home, which is what ultimately pushes them toward a purchase. Spending some extra money on staging, and even hiring a professional, can save you money in the long run by increasing the value of your home in the eyes of a buyer.
Moving Costs
Once you’ve sold your home, you’ll naturally have to move out of it. It’s important that you account for these costs when you’re selling. Even if you’re not hiring a moving crew, you still will need to account for vehicle and equipment rental, gas, packing materials, shipping, cleaning costs, childcare and/or pet care, and moving insurance (if you choose to purchase it).
If you are thinking about selling your home in the Greater Boston area, contact Barrett Sotheby's International Realty today or learn more about the services we provide to sellers.
