Seller Tip: An Open Letter To A Home Seller

How Well Does Your Home Show? - Part II: An Open Letter To a Home Seller

Dear Seller,

Your home's for sale. How well does it show? That old adage that a picture's worth a thousand words is never more true than in today's competitive marketplace. With over 70% of home buyers starting their search on the Internet, why not market your home by showcasing its the many unique highlights?

There's a lot of competition out there and, if you're like me, you're sick and tired of hearing about the high inventory of homes and the almost cavalier attitude of buyers who expect so much more from sellers today versus just a year ago. The reality of today's real estate market is that there are 14 other homes in your same development that are for sale, and they are exactly like yours - or so it may seem. So, how do you separate yourself from the pack?

It's simple and easy to stand out from the crowd. Hire a professional photographer to highlight your home's best features. You can't go wrong with lots of quality, professional-grade photos of your home since your investment will come back to you many-fold. Your REALTOR can guide you to a professional photographer who will capture the gorgeous vignettes all around your home's interior and exterior. It's true -- you yourself can take a picture or two on your own but quality, professional photos will set your home apart from those many others competing for the same audience. These are the photos that are going to get your home shown - and, we all know, if your home doesn't get shown, it will not get sold. The choice is yours - a fabulous slide show of 25 or more stills highlighting your pride and joy, or perhaps 360° spins of the exterior, encompassing the well-manicured lawn and the pool at sunset. How about a 180° of the ridiculously indulgent master bathroom (180° vs. 360° so your pro will capture the essentials yet won't get those irritating mirror flashes or even himself in the mirror!). Maybe you'd like to include all of the above.

Your home's for sale. So, let's go forth and sell. However, do not make the mistake of discounting the other important factors of getting your home sold. Make sure you use a good REALTOR to help you price your home correctly (that would be me and professionally-done virtual tours are included in the marketing plan for all of my listings), be sure to de-clutter, take the time to clean up, get the landscapers out there (or do it yourself if you're so inclined), and SELL that beautiful home of yours!

Regards,

Lanette Branch, REALTOR

Bel Air, Maryland - I'm sold on Bel Air and I'll sell you on Bel Air, too!