the pool of buyers for a short sale is much smaller than for a regular listing. Ugly Homes: These are homes that are unappealing and aren’t kept up. People buy homes because of emotion. Logic doesn’t always apply. As a result, a well-maintained home will sell for more money. We have seen well-maintained homes sell for 10% to 15% more than an unappealing home. We have seen professionally staged homes sell for 20% more than an unstaged property. Yes, the condition of a home counts. Don’t use an ugly, outdated home as a comparable.
IT'S ALL IN THE TIMING
Timing is a slippery slope. If you take too much time with a sale, holding out for the perfect offer, you’re probably doing yourself a disservice. Buyers probably will notice your home just sitting there and will offer lower prices. Market statistics suggest that the first offer is most often the highest. Conversely, if you need to sell quickly, you don’t have as much wiggle room when it comes to negotiating. You need to get out of the home, and you’re limited to taking whatever bids are thrown at you.
SEASONAL ISSUES
Usually, the best seasons to put a house on the market are spring and fall. Keep this in mind as you prepare your home for sale. If timing allows, focus on your next hot season to begin the marketing process.
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