Carrie Thompson - HOW TO AVOID PAYING A REAL ESTATE COMMISSION

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 Don’t use an ugly, outdated home as a comparable.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.

A LITTLE NUDGE

Sellers often reach a point where they’re desperate to get this selling business over with, and yet, there are no takers. Give your prospective buyers a little nudge. Make them feel as if they’re

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