pen-calendar-to-do-checklist.jpgIf it's your first time, planning to sell your home may seem very overwhelming. Getting the home ready for inspection, decluttering years of knick-knacks and finding the right agent to ensure a quick and profitable sale are just some of the items on your long to-do list. In this article we've provided home owners a simplified list of the 8 must-haves when planning to sell your home!

"To-Dos" When Planning to Sell Your Home 

1. Find out the value of your home

Before putting your home on the market you'll want to have a professional provide you with the value of your home and compare it to the current market. If you contact Glass House today, one of our full-service agents will come to your home to give you an expert market analysis of your home's value and the current market. Here's a Sample Market Analysis to help you understand what to expect! 

2. Understand the market for your area

Understanding the real estate market at the time your planning to sell is important. Your agent should provide you with the information you need during your home evaluation but doing your own research can never hurt to help your understanding. Use trustworthy resources such as Zillow.com, Trulia.com and Movoto.com to find out about the market in your area. With Glass House, you can expect your agent to provide you with information about the real estate market in your area during your free, no obligation consultation! Ready for your consultation? Contact us now!

 

3. Invest in "green" upgrades for your home

Quality buyers are looking for homes that are up to date with technology to help them save money long term. Investing in upgrades that help your home "go green" will increase the value of your home and make your home more attractive to buyers. Smart upgrades such a remote lighting to save on electric and Energy Star certified appliances are differentiators and will help your home sell faster and for more money!

4. Fix and renovate  

Before listing your home for sale you'll want to make sure anything around the home that's broken or outdated is fixed and upgraded! Something as simple as a loose, creaky door or sticket window could be a turn-off to prospective buyers during a walk through. Prove to buyers that you've taken good care of your home by ensuring that all appliances are clean and working properly as well. Buyers will ask questions about the last time systems were maintenanced or replaced so be sure to have all of the information you need available.

5.Declutter and organize

Decluttering is one of the most important steps in preparing to sell your home! Buyers want to imagine themselves owning and living in your home so it's important that you have simple, neutral decor to help them feel welcome. Clear out your home of any unwanted and unneccessary items such as knick-knacks and magazines throughout the rooms and living room. Keep your counter organized and simple by putting away appliances into cabinets. Declutter bedrooms by packing up ut of season clothes and shoes from closets to clear space. Having a neat and organized space will go a long way when it comes to showings and photography! 

6. Professional staging and photography

Be sure to hire a professional to stage and photograph your home! When working with Glass House, we'll include professional staging and photography at no cost. With great staging your home will look welcoming, organized and attractive to buyers of all types. Professional photography will benefit the marketing of your home and help it get noticed by more buyers! 

7. Great marketing on all the top websites

Without great marketing, buyers will have trouble finding your home for sale! Your agent should include marketing on all of the top real estate websites such as Zillow.com and Trulia.com (Glass House also includes full exposure on Craigslist and Realtor.com!) Your marketing plan should also include postings on Facebook and other social media accounts and forums for your neighborhood. 

8. Home inspection 

Buyers will really appreciate if you have completed a full home inspection before listing. However, this inspection also benefits you as the seller! An inspection before listing can identify any critical repairs needed to be made before you list. It can also help you adjust the price of the home to include any upgrades or renovation costs you completed prior to listing.  

Khalil El-Ghoul

Discover our 2.25% Full Service Listings and Buyer Rebates. Khalil is dedicated to guiding home buyers and sellers with expert advice and objective information. For professional real estate assistance, text Khalil at 571-235-4821 or email khalil@glasshousere.com today.