Common Seller Mistakes
- Make sure you talk to several agents before listing. If one agent thinks your home can sell for a considerable amount more than the others, beware. That agent probably just wants your business more than helping you sell your home. In most cases, the agent will wait a few months with the high list price and then advise you to lower the price, which wastes your time.
- Ensure the agent you are working with is projecting realistic figures. An overpriced home will not sell.
- Have an open mind about upgrading your home in order to have it sell. Maybe upgrade the paint, replace carpet, etc.
- Location is a huge factor in selling a home. If your home isn't in an ideal area/location, there isn't anything you can do about that but you can make it appealing! Make sure your home is clean, organized, clutter free, and presentable. Sometimes lowering your asking price will be necessary in order for it to move.
- Research the realtor you have in mind. A realtor with a bad reputation could have trouble selling your home. Remember, agents communicate and network with other agents. Word will get around if an agent is unethical, lazy, etc. Most likely other agents will try to stay away from working with them. It's important to do your homework and find a great, reputable agent from the get go.
- Find an agent who will do more than stick a sign in your yard. A great agent will market your home in a way to maximize exposure and showcase your home. A great agent will utilize advertising, flyers, word of mouth, MLS listings, open houses, etc.
- Hire an appraiser to perform an accurate appraisal of your home. Have your agent do a competitive market analysis of homes in your area that are similar to yours.
- Remember you are under contract with your agent. This means if someone who isn't working with a realtor shows up at your door and wants to see you home, call your agent immediately to have him/her show the home. If your realtor isn't available at that moment, obtain the interested parties name and number and then have your agent contact him/her quickly. Showing your home on your own could void your contract with your agent and end up costing you their fee.
- It's very important for you to know and understand your contract. It's your responsibility to know your rights. It could save you considerable money in repairs, inspections, or maintenance.
- If you are unhappy with the way things are progressing or not progressing, sit down with your agent. Express your concerns. A good agent will listen with an open mind and make the appropriate adjustment.
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