In my experience with Lake George homeowners putting up their home for sale, most will prefer not to be rushed. It’s important to take to the time to enhance curb appeal, make necessary repairs, and otherwise prepare for the best possible offer.
But what if you’re moving because of divorce, or a job, or you need to close on your current home in order to move into a house you just bought? If you’re for some reason finding you need to sell your home as fast possible, here are the tips that will increase your chances of selling quickly, and for a suitable price.
Bring the Entryway Up to Perfection
All the typical standards of preparing your house for sale are applicable in the scenario of wanting or needing to sell as soon as possible: curb appeal, decluttering, depersonalizing, and overall cleaning the home inside and out.
While curb appeal is an important factor, some might argue it’s not as crucial as that moment when they first step into a house. Just as individuals can decide whether or not they like someone within seconds of meeting them, some home buyers mentally make a decision as soon as they walk in the door.
Opt for Staging the Home
Homes that are professionally staged sell up to 88% faster, and for 20% more, according to a January 2023 article from Realtor.com. As a Certified Professional Stager, I’ve seen firsthand from clients what a significant difference staging can be.
Have Professional Photos Taken
As with staging and our next suggested tip, having professional photos taken does mean upping your expenses for selling the house, but this is well worth it. Before your prospective buyers have a chance to be wowed by your curb appeal and entryway perfection, they’re going to look at photos of your house online.
As much as 96% of recent home buyers used online tools to search for homes, according to a February 2023 US News article.
Go the Extra Mile to Do a 3D Tour
Most homes for sale have photos on an online listing. Only some will have professional photos, and only some will be staged, but even fewer will contain a 3D tour. This is a prime way to elevate your online reach, draw potential buyers in, and to attract the right buyers, who will have an accurate understanding of your home before they ever step foot in it.
Set the Right Price
You can’t sell your home quickly without ensuring it’s priced correctly. Do your research to find out what similar homes in your area have recently sold for. Be sure to account for elements of the home that may raise it above the average mark, like your recently renovated, gorgeous back deck. Or, on the other end of the spectrum, be realistic if there is something about your house that should lower the price, like the house needs a new HVAC system.
Keep in mind that buyers searching online can put a maximum amount on the filter, so you don’t want to price your home too high. Pricing too low could raise a red flag for someone. Your agent will guide you to the right number to list with.
Be Ultra Flexible With Showings
Now is not the time to be picky about showing the house on evenings or weekends. Prospective buyers who are interested in the house may say no and look at another one simply because they couldn’t get in at a convenient time, and you’d hate to lose a potential buyer who may be the right buyer.
Make it easy as possible for those interested to come view the home. This includes being ready to leave at a moment’s notice.
Sweeten the Deal
Look for creative ways to make the deal as appealing as possible for the buyer. Can you include outdoor furniture or a washer/dryer? Would you be willing to cover closing costs? Offer an allowance for needed home repairs that might come up in the inspection?
Pick a Buyer Who Is Financially Qualified
If you choose a financially qualified buyer then the whole process is likely to run more smoothly – and quickly. If a buyer has to close on a mortgage to buy your home, the timeline will be stretched out. If you’re lucky enough to come across a cash offer, you could close in days.
Choose an Experienced Agent
If you need to sell fast then you don’t have the time to go with an agent who doesn’t have experience selling homes in the area, or someone who you otherwise feel doesn’t meet your standards. If you want it done right, and done quickly, you need a great agent.