Bernie Stephan, Eco Realty - SELLING MARIN & SONOMA HOMES FOR TOP DOLLAR

sellers hold a strong advantage. However, market conditions can shift. For example, the arrival or departure of a major employer or retailer can influence whether the market favors buyers or sellers. In a seller’s market, homes may sell within 30 days, whereas in a buyer’s market, properties may take a year or more to sell. The partnership between seller and real estate agent is critical to achieving the best results. A skilled agent can market a home effectively and bring in qualified buyers, but a deal can still fall through due to preventable issues. A cluttered garage, an unshoveled walkway, or outdated paint colors can turn buyers away. Even the best real estate professional has limitations in overcoming a home’s shortcomings if they are not addressed. The seller’s time, effort, and investment play a crucial role in the process. Preparing a home for sale by making necessary repairs, improving curb appeal, and maintaining a clean, well-presented space significantly impacts both the time it takes to sell and the final selling price. A seller’s willingness to keep their home in show-ready condition for the duration of the listing can make a substantial difference in the outcome.lysis (CMA) can provide valuable insight into a home’s market value. See the last page of this book for information on how to request a free home valuation.

EXAMPLE

Consider a buyer interested in a home listed at $820,000. An online valuation estimates the home’s worth at $880,000. Based on that estimate, the buyer offers the asking price, believing it to be a fair deal. The home was listed at $820,000 because, at that price, it was expected to sell within a reasonable timeframe. However, the

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