As in every real estate market across the country, the most important decisions to make are yours.
Number one consideration should be "Do your home features justify your asking price"? Although it is hard for homeowners to divorce themselves emotionally from a home they've enjoyed, this is what they have to do so that they can make sound decisions about their list price. Putting yourself in the buyer's shoes, as sellers often become buyers, you know buyers want to make a good deal, so you need to price the home properly so that it represents a good value.
Be wary of real estate agents that tell you your home will sell more than a supportable price, just to secure your listing. Over time, they will suggest you adjust the pricing downward, and you have lost the best marketing time with an unrealistic asking price. Realtors call this buying the listing! It is tempting to try for a higher price, however, this tactic adds additional marketing time, less activity and could ultimately result in a lower sales price. Buyers pay market value, and won't overpay. Listing your home for what you need to net from the sale or what you "want" won't stimulate buyers to pay more.
If the competition has remodeled or redecorated and you need a lot of updating, then either do the work before it hits the market or discount your price, accordingly. Remember to rely on your agent's recommendations, intuition and skill, based on years of experience.
To recap, be realistic about current neighborhood market value for your home , and what preparations it needs to obtain the best results, in the journey of selling your home! It is a team effort between yourselves and the professional you choose to get the job done! Trust and communication should abound between both parties.
Let's get started!
