Last week on our blog, we discussed frequently asked questions that potential home buyers may have before starting their search. This week, it’s time for the sellers! We are going to dive into some FAQs that homeowners may have before putting their house on the market!
Saying we spent a lot of time in our homes this past year would be an understatement! I wouldn’t blame you if you were starting to get an itch to move from your current home, and we’re here to help. Keep reading to have some of your most frequently asked questions answered about selling your home.
1. Do I need to list with a Real Estate Agent?
Being a “For Sale By Owner” and forgoing paying for agent commissions may seem tempting, but it is best to consult with and hire a professional. Just like when searching for a future home, a great Real Estate Agent will be key to selling your current home. Take the time to interview multiple agents until you find the right fit for you, not all agents are created equal! A great agent will be able to guide you in market knowledge, how to competitively price your home, if there are any updates or fixes you should do prior to listing, and direct all parties after an offer has been accepted to get you to the closing table. All of these items are key to having a as close to a hassle free experience as you can and selling in a timely manner.
2. Do I need to make repairs before listing?
It depends! When listing with an agent on the MLS, you are mostly marketing to other families who are looking for a move in ready home. These buyers will be encouraged to elect conducting a home inspection, where undone repairs could become a red flag. They also could become more pricey for the seller if they are having to hire professional contractors to complete fixes. With that, I would recommend completing smaller fixes prior to listing. Consult your agent for their professional input! If you do not want to make repairs to your home, Cork Valley Properties will purcahse your home in “As – In” condition. Learn more about our process on our website here.
3. Do I need to ‘stage’ my home before listing?
Yes, but not professionally! When preparing your home to be listed, you will be preparing for your home to be photographed and toured by potential buyers. This does not mean that you need to go and buy newer or fancier furniture, but it does mean that you will need to tidy up and declutter. Potential buyers want to be able to picture themselves living in your home. Take down family photos, family trinkets, and excess knick-knacks. You want the potential buyers to envision their own things and their own families in the space. If you need to rent a storage unit to stow away any excess furniture, that could be helpful as the buyers will still be opening your closets. Make sure you also are staging your home with clean scents! A thorough cleaning of fabrics throughout your home, including carpeting, will go a long way in having your home smell fresh. If you are a smoker or have pets, plan in advance that this cleaning may take time and effort to rid of any lingering odors.
4. How do I prepare for showings?
When your agent is listing your house, they will ask you how much notice you would like before scheduling a showing. Sometimes sellers will say that they would like 24 hours notice, and sometimes they will try to be flexible and say they just need an hour. When setting this timetable, keep in mind of this list of things you will need to do prior to leaving your home for the showing. Yes, that’s right, you will not be present at the showing! Sellers are not generally present in the home for the showings. Being present usually causes discomfort for the buyers and makes them feel as though they can not make comments or ask questions to their agent. The Buyer’s Agent will act as ‘security’ and ensure that there is nothing taken or disturbed in your home. However, you should be vigilant and conceal any valuables or medications prior to leaving for the showing. You also will want to open all curtains and blinds to let in the natural light and make sure all of the home is clean and tidy. Turn on lights in rooms that are darker than others. Showings usually last about 30 minutes, so you should be free to return to your home in that time frame.
We hope that these FAQs give you a solid foundation for selling your home! If you need any assistance along the way, fill out our contact form and Kaity can help! Good luck!
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