Insider Secrets for Selling Real Estate
- Determine price very carefully. The closer the price is to actual market value - what a knowledgeable seller will accept and a knowledgeable buyer will pay - the sooner it will sell. "Time is money."
- Be sure the price is realistic. Ownership has a tendency to inflate value. Unrealistic prices are the major cause of "shopworn" listings, those that cause people to wonder if something is wrong with the property and result in eventual below-market sales. Overpricing actually helps sell other competing properties by making those listings appear to be better values compared to yours.
- Show flexibility in evaluating the need for special financing, perhaps through owner financing or VA/FHA.
- Try to offer immediate possession.
- Provide easy access to the property for showings. Exposure sells real estate.
- Offer extras that convey with the property such as freestanding appliances, pool table, swimming pool chemicals, washer/dryer, fire suppresion systems, alarms, etc. Keep some extras out of the listing and use them as "sweeteners" for negotiations.
- Allow your REALTOR to place a "For Sale" sign on the property.
- Make repairs of obvious defects and keep the property in top condition. Improve the "curb appeal" of the property wherever possible.
- Listen to and follow any special advice offered by your REALTOR. Your REALTOR is the expert.
