For current homeowners, taking advantage of a great buying opportunity means prepping your house to get it ready to sell. That can take longer than you think.
If you’re planning to move in a few weeks or months, here are five things you can do now to help ensure you’re ready when it’s time to list your home for sale.
- Interview real estate agents. A good real estate agent can help you navigate all aspects of the home selling process, from pricing your home to handling contract negotiations when you get an offer. If you don’t already have one, ask people you trust for recommendations and meet with a handful of potential candidates. Remember that while knowledge and expertise are essential, it’s also important to choose someone you’ll enjoy working with.
- Make repairs. The seller’s market of a year ago, where people bought homes as-is to win bidding wars, seems to have run its course. Be sure that all major repairs have been completed before you put your house on the market. Most folks want to know they’re purchasing a home that’s been well-maintained, and obvious issues may scare some shoppers away.
- Declutter. Removing excess items from your home can make it seem more open and inviting. Plus, it gives visitors an opportunity to focus on your house and what it has to offer instead of the decades of possessions you’ve accumulated.
- Stage. People who are looking for a new home want to be able to picture themselves living in the house before they buy it. Put away your vacation photos and other personal effects that are unique to your family. Instead, opt for neutral paint colors, décor, and accessories that will appeal to a wide audience. That way you won’t turn off potential buyers.
- Interview mortgage lenders. Speak with a Homeowners Licensed Mortgage Professional before you start searching for your next residence. We can help you get pre-approved, provide an estimate of the rate you’ll qualify for so you can budget accordingly, discuss your options for buying your new home before you sell your current one, and more. At Homeowners Financial Group, we offer a variety of mortgage products for all your home financing needs. Give us a call today to learn more and get started!
