The long anticipated 2021 year is finally here! Many people have been excited to put the challenges of 2020 behind us, but I believe even more are anxiously waiting to see what this year has in store. Meanwhile, the real estate market keeps turning and waits for no one. So that brings us to the question of what real estate sellers can expect in the new year.
If you’ve been following me on social media, then you know the market is still moving. That indicates it’s a great time to hit the market, but you must remember that this is conditional. There are still a lot of houses sitting on the market, so the correct idea is that it is a great time to list your home if you are really committed to selling your home and getting a fresh start. So you may be asking, “what do I need to do to make sure my home sells?” The answer comes down to 3 basic points: make it look good, price it right, and utilize comprehensive marketing.
Today’s buyers are very savvy and picky. They don’t want to imagine what your home will look like when they live there. They want it all ready for them to move in, and many are not willing to put work into changing or updating it. Sellers are left wondering what they need to do to stand out. Repainting in neutral colors is a great start, but depending on how new your home is or how long you’ve lived there, you may need to go further. Top real estate experts have connections with contractors and the knowledge from buyers of what you need to do. Be sure you consult your agent before you put any time, effort or especially money into changes and repairs.
The most important part of selling your home is pricing it right. Buyers are looking closely at the comparable homes on the market and what others have sold for. They do not have the love of your home that you do, and what you may think gives your home more value than the others may not be clear or even a consideration for buyers. You could even skip the renovations if you focus on the right price and realize how much that takes down the value of your home. Be sure you talk to a true local expert to get an accurate estimate for your home as Zestimates and online estimates can be off by as much as $200,000 in some areas (since they don’t take updates into account). If you are not willing to list it for what the experts are estimating, expect to sit on the market or consider waiting to list your home until the market shifts again. You also want to be sure the agent you are trusting is not just telling you what you want to hear to get your listing.
The final piece of the puzzle is not actually performed by sellers, but depends heavily on the agent that is hired by you, the seller. Putting a sign up in your yard or some online photos aren’t enough anymore. You need to make sure your agent covers all forms of marketing before you sign with them. Buyers are out there, but if your agent isn’t pursuing them your home may be passed over. Buyer’s are expecting videos, 3D tours, stunning and professional photos. They want to know everything before they take the time to schedule a showing, drive all the way there and risk their health to see a home. Most importantly, buyers can’t come by to see your home if they don’t know about it. A great agent will have a strong local presence, national and even world wide reach online with innovative plans that include the written story of your home, professional photos, videos, and more.
If you are looking to make a fresh start in the new year, position your home properly to get the most money in the shortest amount of time. Be sure you use these tips to make the most of selling in the new year. Call me for more information or to discuss how I will help you reach your real estate dreams at 847.967.0022.