the area will tip the scale toward homeowners to make a swift market or toward buyers to make a slow market. The typical selling time in a swift market might be less than 30 days, while that of a slow market may be up to nine months. Typically, any number below six months is considered a seller’s market.
LIVING IN A FISHBOWL
A house on the market requires keeping the home in a constant “show-ready” condition, and changes in day-to-day life are inherent in the process. They also will likely deal with repair and reconditioning appointments and inspections. The house will be photographed for online, periodical, or brochure presentations. There are repeated showings when the home first hits the market. Keep your home in pristine showing condition for impromptu visitors — the perfect prospect might just drop in at dinnertime.
CHILDREN (AND PETS) SHOULD BE UNSEEN, UNHEARD
Children and pets are distractions for potential buyers, affecting their experience of your home. You should plan for your children to be elsewhere and your pets crated or leashed, and no toys lying about or dog hair on the sofa. The dishes should always be done and the kitchen sparkling. The pressure of showing to everyone even mildly interested in looking (not necessarily buying) may come from the idea that the more your home is seen, the more quickly and easily your home will sell. Many real estate agents provide their clients with dozens of homes to consider without a clear picture of what the buyer wants. Low-interest traffic can be heavy and a burden on the seller’s time, energy, and resources.
Since a showing can take an hour or even hours out of your
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