Decide to Sell

by Alex Mendel

The 5 DO’s of Home Selling

Selling your home can be a game-changer if done right. Here are five essential DO’s to ensure a successful home sale.

1. DO make your home accessible

Flexible showing schedules are crucial. Offer weeknight and extended weekend hours to accommodate buyers who have tight schedules. The more accessible your home, the higher the chances of attracting serious buyers.

2. DO post online

Did you know that 95% of buyers start their home search online? Even more impressively, 99% of millennials, who make up 66% of first-time homebuyers, use the internet to find their dream home. Invest in professional photography, virtual tours, and even drone videography to showcase your home’s best features online.

3. DO provide perks

Sweeten the deal by offering more than expected. Consider including furniture and appliances or covering closing fees or moving costs. These incentives can make your property more attractive to potential buyers.

4. DO negotiate offers

Negotiation is key to closing a deal that benefits both parties. Stay patient and don’t be disheartened if buyers back off initially. Serious buyers will continue negotiations until a fair agreement is reached.

5. DO work with an agent

Lighten your load by hiring a professional real estate agent. Choose someone with local market expertise, smart marketing strategies, and seasoned negotiation skills. A good agent can make all the difference in your home-selling journey.

The 5 DON’Ts of Home Selling

Avoid these common mistakes when selling your home to ensure a smooth and successful process

1. DON’T sell before you’re ready

Selling a home is an emotional experience. Ensure your fond memories don’t cloud your objectivity. It’s important to detach your feelings and approach the sale with a clear, business-minded perspective.

2. DON’T postpone repairs

Present your home in the best possible condition. Address maintenance issues like clogged gutters, dripping faucets, and loose doorknobs before buyers view the property. Unresolved issues can give buyers the impression that there are more hidden problems.

3. DON’T spend more than you should

Focus on practical, cost-effective renovations rather than flashy, expensive upgrades. Smaller projects often yield better returns. Consult your agent for advice on improvements that will appeal to buyers in your area.

4. DON’T hang around during a viewing

Give buyers the space to imagine themselves in your home. Step out during showings and let your agent handle the tour. This helps buyers feel more comfortable and open to discussing the property.

5. DON’T overprice your house

Set a realistic price based on comparable properties in your neighborhood. Overpricing can deter serious buyers and result in your home sitting on the market for too long, ultimately forcing a price drop below market rates.