Selling a home can be easy when you use these tips to prepare before listing on the market.
So you have decided to sell your home. If you are like most people, selling a home can be an overwhelming experience. Here are some tips that will save you money and time and make the whole process just a little smoother.
Review and understand your mortgage
If your home is currently mortgaged, be sure to check with your lender to understand what, if any penalties or interest payments may be associated with paying off your mortgage at this time. This is a critical first step that can save you a lot of money. The last thing you want to do is get to your closing appointment and find out that you owe money due to a shortfall caused by interest penalties. For more information on mortgages, see Bedes World.
Finding a great agent
Once you understand where you will be financially when your home sale is complet,e, you will want to find an agent. If you don’t know any agents personally, then do some homework. Drive around your area and note the signs that say ‘sold’. Don’t be afraid to contact two or three agencies and interview them. Have a clear understanding of what their commissions will be if they expect to hold an open house and what expectations they have of you. A home sale is a very personal experience, so make sure you choose a realtor you like and trust.
Selling a home – preparing your house
Before a ‘for sale sign goes up in your front yard, you need to prepare your house. This is often referred to as ‘staging’ and can quickly be done at the same time you begin packing and preparing for your move. If you will be downsizing, go ahead and have a garage sale or donate any furniture that won’t be moving with you. The less furniture you have in each room, the less cluttered it will appear, and you will create the perception of larger spaces. At this time, you need to start packing personal belongings and family pictures. When potential buyers enter your home, you want them to visualize their personal belongings there. This can be difficult when they are looking at your family pictures. Kitchens and bathrooms can be a key selling feature in a home, so make sure they are spotless and de-cluttered.
Paint the interior before you list it for sale
If you are going to paint the interior of your home, be sure to select neutral colours, like those used in shabby chic home decor, see this site for inspiration. Again, the goal is for potential buyers to envision their furniture and belongings in the home, and a fresh, neutral coat of paint can accomplish this.
Make yourself and your home move ready
If possible, store moving boxes neatly in your garage or rent a storage unit. Be prepared to keep your home clean and ready for showing to potential buyers.
There is no question that having your home for sale can be a real disruption in your daily routine. The quicker your home sells, the faster your life can return to normal so take these simple steps at the beginning and happy moving!