The real estate market has taken a downturn, but you still need to sell your home. Whether the military is sending you to a new duty station again or you’re relocating for other reasons, sometimes you can’t wait for the market to change. So, what can you do to make your home desirable and get those offers coming in? At American Veteran Properties, we’ve been in the real estate game a long time. There are several steps you can take to set your home apart from the rest.
Step 1:
Get a Home Inspection Done Prior to Listing
When there are less home buyers in market, it is important to anticipate any potential problems with your home that could impact a deal. A home inspector will take a close look at major systems in your home which could need replacing, such as the roof, electrical, or plumbing issues.
Step 2:
Make Any Necessary Repairs
In a slow real estate market, buyers don’t want to walk in a home and feel like they will have to spend money on repairs as soon as they turn the key. Problems like a light not turning on or a broken door handle will indicate to buyers that the property has not been well maintained.
Step 3:
Use Professional Photos
Online photographs are frequently the first thing a potential buyer will see when considering your home. Amateur photographs taken with a phone or low-quality camera are frequently blurry, shadowed, and don’t show the home to its best advantage. A professional photographer will highlight the best aspects of your home with flattering pictures.
Step 4:
Deep Clean your Home
Few things will turn a buyer away faster than walking into a dirty home. Dishes in the sink, crumbs on the counter, or dust bunnies under the table are definite turn-offs. Additionally, buyers can be sensitive to smells—especially odors associated with pets. A deep clean can take care of these potential problems for buyers.
Step 5:
Stage Your Home
If you have the means, hire a professional stager. A stager knows how to organize your home, showing it to its best advantage, so a buyer can see themselves in your home. If you are staging on your own, remember to declutter, make the space less personal, and take advantage of natural lighting.
Staging your home applies to the outside, as well. Mow the lawn, pull the weeds, and plant a few flowers, if necessary. The exterior of your home is the first thing a buyer will see and sets the tone for the rest of the home tour.
Step 6:
Ensure your Home is Always Ready to Show
One of the hardest parts of selling a home can be the challenge of constantly showing the space. You must be ready to leave at a moment’s notice—all while keeping your home clean and decluttered. To make this easier, store your personal items, empty the trash on your way out of the home, run a quick vacuum in the morning, and wipe the counters before you leave. Keeping air fresheners plugged in also helps your home feel fresh and clean.
Step 7:
Get the Right Real Estate Agent
Arguably the most important step in selling your home is selecting the right real estate agent. A good real estate agent can make the process of selling your home less stressful and more successful. An experienced agent understands the local market and will focus on home’s best qualities, use creative marketing techniques, and walk you through every step of the process.
At American Veteran Properties we understand the real estate markets surrounding Fort Stewart, Fort Hunter, Richmond Hill, Savannah, and Hinesville. If you are moving with the military, we know (and have experienced) the ins and outs of a military move. If you are on the civilian side, our knowledgeable agents will help you find the home of your dreams.
