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Five Tips to Sell Homes Quickly

By Editor | November 4, 2007

A Few Smart Moves Can Gain Sellers Thousands of Dollars

Tips for home sellers to prepare homes for a rapid sale earning the highest valuation.

Despite grim news in the New York Times noting the pending home sale index has hit a record low, and it "hasn’t hit rock bottom yet", savvy home sellers have discovered the secret to selling their homes. (New York Times, October 2, 2007).

Here are a few ways strategic thinkers prepare to sell their homes:

– Prelist Home Inspections. These inspections allow sellers to identify
and repair problems rather than lose money during the sale. Statistics
show that for every $1 of identified repairs, the buyer would ask for
double that in a price reduction. Paying $5,000 to repair a roof is far
more enticing than losing $10,000 in the sale.

– Neighborhood Environmental Reports. These reports provide important
information on known and potential contamination that may exist on or
in the vicinity of a property. The seller could use this information to
ensure buyers that the home is in an environmentally safe neighborhood.

– An overview of the neighborhood’s assets. A list of the neighborhood’s
assets can help sellers market the area’s positive attributes along
with those of the home. Nearby schools, parks, community pools or other
features can add value for a buyer.

– Minor interior cosmetic enhancements. Upgrading or enhancing elements
in a home gives potential buyers the feeling that they can move in and
feel comfortable in the home right away. Besides making kitchen and
bathroom upgrades and cleaning floors and windows, the entry way should
be well lit, clean and uncluttered, as it’s the first room a potential
buyer evaluates.

– Minor exterior cosmetic enhances, curb appeal. Establish the right
first impression by making a home’s exterior more appealing. Make
certain the lawn is green and mowed. Evaluate any stone walkways to be
certain they’re even. Plant flowers to add color and vibrancy.

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Topics: Selling Your Home |

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