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Field studies and buyer surveys were compiled
to formulate a master check list of important things to consider when preparing your home for sale. Please accept the following
as no-frills, accurate content that will enable you to objectively critique your house- hopefully resulting in an expedited
sale at a premium price.
There are three (3) components required
to selling a home:
#1. Price
#2. Condition
#3. Marketing
You as the owner have full control
over the first two items... Your relocation company & agent have control over the last. Since in today's market only
the BEST condition homes offered at the BEST price are selling, your cooperation is critical to your relocation's success...
1♦ "My price is a little high, but I'll just wait to negotiate an offer." True or False? FALSE.
In today's saturated market, it is not uncommon for homes for sale on their 2nd anniversary. Why? Because there
are too many options out there for buyers. In a seller's market similar to Southern California in 2004, this was valid. But
now, price is king! Furthermore, an overpriced house only helps sell the competition. And an extended time-on-market may ultimately
yield a lower price than had you priced correctly from the start!
2♦ "My house's condition is not the best, but I'll just offer a
buyer allowance." True or False? FALSE. With buyers, perception is everything. And they heavily discount repair items
in their favor. For example, if your carpet is soiled and can be cleaned for $400, the buyers will ask for $4,000 in carpet
allowance... Homes in top condition sell quicker, and at a much higher price. Condition MUST be as good as it can be... And
a little investment in repairs can go a long, long way.
3♦ Most homes are sold the moment a buyer pulls up to the front of the home. True
or False? TRUE. You could have 24-carat gold bathtubs, but if the front of the home lacks curb appeal, the buyers may never
enter... Fact, 84% of all homes are virtually sold the moment a buyer first arrives at the home. So, plant lots of flowers,
keep grass cut low and edged, keep leaves off the yard and driveway, spread mulch & pine straw in the island beds, replace
tarnished front door knobs, and paint the front entry doorway area.
4♦ Outdoor flyers are important to buyers when circulating in your community.
True or False? TRUE. I always recommend, when allowed by the community, brilliant full-color flyers are placed near
the street corner for buyers to pick up. Keep the box stocked! And contact your agent when low. And don't use black and white
flyers- go quality!
5♦
Natural light sells... True or False? TRUE. Keep all window blinds & shades open. And keep draperies pulled to each side
to maximize sun light. If you get notice of a showing, turn ALL lights on including: closets, garages, basements, baths, and
even outdoor light fixtures.
6♦
"I have a pet, but don't need to make any special changes." True of False? FALSE. Countless studies have proven
that evidence of a pet in (especially) key areas of the home such as kitchens, baths, and bedrooms- turn buyers away. Therefore,
evidence of a pet (such as food bowls, water, toys) should be placed in non-essential areas such as the laundry room, garage,
utility room, etc. Remember, I love my pet as you love yours, but others likely may not!
7♦ "I should treat my house for odors."
True or False? TRUE. Odor is an extremely important sense used when selecting a home. If you have pet odors, it is highly
recommended to professionally clean the carpet using an added deodorizer. Also, place a dozen or so "plug in" air
fresheners throughout all levels of home. And buy scented candles and potpourri. Distribute liberally.
8♦ "Deep-cleaning the home
is a waste of money." True or False? FALSE. A one time deep-cleaning of the home by a professional maid service is VERY
much recommended.
9♦
"I have lots of wallpaper on my walls, and it may be a bit dated. But I'll let the buyer update the home." True
or False? FALSE. Large painted murals, flowery wallpaper, and bright colors were your personal preference, but it
is important to de-personalize the home, and make it more neutral to attract to the mass market. Doing so will greatly expedite
a sale. And is well worth the investment!
10♦ "Increasing the commission
to the Buyer's agent sometimes helps activity? True or False? TRUE. Most listings offer “3.00%” to the buyer’s
agent. Call me to discuss increasing the buyer’s agent compensation to 3.50%. This commonly triggers enhanced activity
and showings…
11♦ “I don’t need to contact you as
my agent with showings.” True or False? FALSE. Though I need not always be contacted for 1st time showings, I definitely
need to be contacted for 2nd time showings. Since I'm not always informed of your showings, kindly email me the NAME &
EMAIL ADDRESS of the agent that showed your house. I will immediately contact the agent, retrieve any feedback, and forward
the email to you so we can process the info- and hopefully use it to our benefit. Thanks for your cooperation!
12♦
“Switching agents periodically is good.” True or False? FALSE. When neighbors, buyers, and agents see new Realtor
signs going up on the front lawn, they believe there must be something inherently bad about the property or the situation
there. If you have an agent with a good reputation in the local area, and a proven track record for performance, stick with
them! If you are my client, I openly welcome periodic person-to-person consultations to ensure we are on the right track.
I will promise you the best, most honest representation to get your house sold at the best price.
In summary: With a soft real estate market, you may get
a little less price than you were hoping, BUT since pricing affects real estate on a macro-wide basis, you are expected to
get your next home at a discount too! From a business perspective, it always makes sense to listen to the current market and
price your house right!
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