Selling Your Home in Today's Market

Although the Upstate (of South Carolina) has not been exposed to the same fate as many other parts of the country, we are in a Buyer's Market. There's a surplus of new and existing homes and there are fewer potential purchasers for the homes that are available. It is indeed a great time to purchase.

Unlike a Seller's Market, with low inventories and lots of potential buyers, you have to do more than place a sign in the front yard. You have to properly position your home based on the competitive offerings with the right price and the right product.

For the sellers, they face a challenge in positioning their home in order to get it sold in the shortest amount of time and at a fair market value. Most home owners don't understand that they must get their home "Pristine" both inside and out and "De-Personalize" it. Yes, price, location and condition are also very important factors, but in today's market you must do more!

Get it Ready to Show:

•· Light Fixture and Plumbing hardware can take years off the age of your home.

•· Fresh Paint can brighten your home, but be careful of the colors you use.

•· Clean, Clean, Clean! In order to make the home appealing and don't forget those pet odors.

•· De-clutter. "Clutter Eats Equity", so box up items that take away from space and neatness.

•· De-personalize. That's right; remove family photographs and your bowling trophies. Even some of your furniture and accessories may turn off potential purchasers. The items that make you feel like it's your home, take away from the potential buyers ability to see the home as "their next home".

Be Careful of Upgrades and Additions:

•· They may add appeal, but you may find you get 70% or less of your investment back when you sell the home.

•· Energy Efficient additions have a good return on investment. New Efficient HVAC and Appliances along with new windows are among some of the better investments.

•· Upgrading kitchen counter tops can also be a winner. However, you should know what the competitive properties are offering before making these upgrades as you can over or under do based on these comparables.

Our Recommendations:

•· Consult an experienced Realtor. They can guide you through the process and provide you with expert advice as to positioning your home among the competitive offerings.

•· Consult a Home Stager. Most consultations are less than $150 and you get a complete written report of recommendations. If you require other services they will be billed separately. However, many of their recommendations you can do yourself.

•· Consult a professional landscape designer. Curb appeal is extremely important for those who drive by and especially for those who view your home on the internet. Internet shopping is used by 87% of home buyers and if the photograph of the exterior is not appealing they will go to the next home without even looking at photos of your interior. Again, many of their suggestions you can do yourself.

Statistics show that if you do the right things you will be rewarded. You will sell your home much quicker and will receive the highest competitive price.