Selling This Spring? These 6 Simple Steps Will Guide You Toward A Successful Sale

It's March already and the clocks have "sprung forward," so if you're hoping to take advantage of this spring's real estate market, now's the time to get your ducks in a row! It may seem like a lot to conquer, but we can get you started in just 6 simple steps:

STEP 1: Research & Find A Reputable Real Estate Agent

If you haven't already started researching your local housing market, you should check out sites like Realtor.com to see what homes have been listed and sold for in your neighborhood and area. This will help set expectations for what you can expect to sell your home at, and what is currently available on the market.

More importantly, we highly recommend connecting with a reputable local real estate agent to assist you in determining your home's value through comps! We know it might be tempting for some homeowners to list their home themselves, but most homeowners find success working with a licensed agent. (And no, we are not just saying this because we are real estate agents, ourselves!)

There are many reasons to utilize a real estate agent! Agents not only have many connections to potential buyers, but they will also ensure you get the most bang for your buck! They will hire the necessary professionals for photos and virtual tours of your home. Additionally, they are experienced in marketing on social media, real estate websites and the MLS. These factors alone will greatly improve your chances of getting the best offers that your home deserves. 

STEP 2: Organize & Declutter

Declutter. This is the perfect time to confront any hoarding habits you may have (no judgement, we are guilty, too)! You will be happy you got rid of anything you don't need.

Move things to storage, if necessary. Donate clothes you're not wearing and items you don't use, if you don't want to throw them away. Get your home organized so that when it's time to stage and show your home, you're already a step ahead!

STEP 3: Depersonalize

You want future homebuyers to be able to picture themselves inside your home - it could be their new home soon! Start taking down knick knacks and family momentos. It's likely you won't be able to take everything down before you move, but you don't want your entire life story on display.

STEP 4: Replace Outdated Fixutres

Seriously - say goodbye to the "antiques." If you have an older home, you may have outdated light fixtures, light switches, rugs or even shower doors. (Of course, this doesn't apply to items that may be seen as valuable or historic.)

Consider replacing those ugly, old fixtures with something neutral and affordable (but not "cheap). You don't need to go out and spend thousands on a brand-new chandelier... but be mindful of everything you have on display and how it may appeal to your future homeybuyers.

STEP 5: Stage Your Home

If you want the best offers on your home, you absolutely need to stage your home! Consult with a professional stager or interior designer. Get local recommendations and advice before you decide on who to hire. 

Staged homes typically sell faster and receive better offers. People hire interior designers for their homes for a reason, and staging is essentially the same concept to make your home more appealing to homebuyers.

STEP 5: Marketing Content (Photos & Virtual Tours)

Once your home is staged, your real estate agent will likely schedule a time for photos and virtual tours to market your home on the MLS and other real estate websites. 

Be sure you know exactly what content you'll be getting for your home. The better the quality, the more leads you'll attract. Photos & video are essentially the FIRST thing that sparks interest for a potential buyer... you want to make sure you are reeling in as many bites as you can to sift through the best offer!

Sure, this may seem like a lot right now! Take a deep breath. Selling your home can be a breeze once you break down these 6 simple steps into tasks and on a schedule.

If you're looking for a guide to jump-start the process, give us a call and we'd be more than happy to help! Contact us at 856-264-8671 or email scott@zhomesrealestate.com today.