Dos and don’ts when putting your home on the market

Selling your home is often an exciting time, so be sure to put your best foot forward before your home hits the market. It’s important to go into the process with the right tools and a positive attitude to make your experience run as smoothly as possible. Below are a few tips about the dos and don’ts of putting your home on the market.

Do use an agent

One of the first things you should do when deciding to list your home is to hire a real estate agent. Your agent will have your best interests in mind when it comes to selling your home and will make the process considerably less stressful. Agents are experts when it comes to online listings, open houses, staging and other aspects that come along with successfully selling your home. Make sure to do your research and find an agent that’s right for you.

Don’t set an unrealistic price

Work with your agent to set a realistic price when you first list your home. Taking chances on a price higher than your home’s value can have a negative outcome in the end. Trust your agent to price your home based on comparable listings in the area and their previous experience in the world of home-buying and selling.

Do get an inspection

Although buyers usually have an inspection before committing to a home, you will have an advantage if you have your home inspected before hitting the market. This will help you set a realistic and fair asking price and give you the chance to fix any issues.

Don’t over-decorate

It’s easy to want to over-decorate, but making your home appealing to potential buyers is key. Keep in mind that buyers want to picture your home as their own. Adding too many personal touches, such as busy prints, loud colors and other decorations, may hinder a buyer’s ability to imagine themselves living in the home. Try to make your home feel as open, spacious and neutral as possible.

Do have professional photos taken

One of the most important aspects of selling your home is the online home listing. This often is the first thing potential home-buyers look at when deciding whether your home meets their criteria. Spice up your online listing by working with your agent to have professional photos taken. Be sure to use photos of the kitchen, bathrooms, bedrooms, yard space and any other distinguishing factors that will be a plus for home-buyers.

Don’t try to hide problems

You will be hard-pressed to find the perfect home with every feature you desire. Most home-buyers know that all homes have aspects that may not meet their criteria. It is important to disclose any issues with your home from the get-go to avoid any unfortunate circumstances down the road. Remember that the new home-buyer will likely have an inspection, so it’s wise to be upfront about any flaws.

Do de-clutter

A clean home will always be necessary throughout the home-selling experience. Be sure to put away all clutter you may have laying around the house. A neat and organized home will not only look better to buyers, but may take away a little of your own stress during the process.

Don’t obsess about making improvements

Small improvements here and there are necessary when putting your home on the market. Make sure you fix any broken cabinets, light fixtures, door handles, ceiling fans, etc., but try not to overdo it. While it is true that renovations and updates can increase the return on investment, make sure that you are committed to any projects you begin. In many cases, the time and effort put into a renovation is not worth the higher home price.

Do make some changes

While you shouldn’t go overboard on renovations, you will want to repair anything that may harm your home’s aesthetic appeal. Take a day or two to apply fresh paint to your walls and cabinets. Consider painting any colored walls neutral, to increase your home’s appeal to various potential buyers. This will help viewers imagine themselves living in the home.

Don’t take things personally

Not everyone looks for the same features when it comes to home-buying. If a potential buyer is not interested in your home after a viewing, don’t take it personally. There are many things that go into choosing a house, so you never know what could make someone change their mind. Try to look past any failed sales, and focus on the positive features that your home has to offer.

If you would like more information about putting your home on the market, or to speak to an ARC agent contact us at (205) 969-8910.