With inventory levels still below pre-pandemic levels, the housing market across the nation still favors sellers. Butt sellers must still take precautions to avoid a reduction in their profits. Our real estate agents want to warn sellers not to make some of the five most common mistakes that cut into them.
- Price
An unrealistic price tag leads to extended time on the market and gradual reductions in price. The advertised reductions are red flags to buyers that something could be wrong with the property. They start looking for ways to negotiate downward. Appropriate pricing requires a careful analysis of comparable homes in the area. This is called a Comparative Market Analysis, or CMA. It considers the level of competition with other Atlanta homes for sale. For accuracy, it should begin with a professional appraisal.
- Presentation
You wouldn't go on a job interview sloppily attired. Make sure you show your home in the best light, too. A house cluttered with personal possessions means potential buyers will be challenged to imagine themselves living in it. Minor repairs you scarcely notice signal buyers that you have not taken good care of the property, and other, more serious, problems may lie in wait. Curb appeal helps them fall in love with the house before they walk in the door. Staging with appropriately sized furniture helps the home look more spacious and practical. Don't ignore any of these factors.
- Preparation
Be ready for the people who come to view the house. Unmade beds, hampers full of laundry, and pet toys scattered across the living room floor will make a potential buyer run for the hills. Keep everything neat and clean, with shining floors and sparkling windows. Throw open the drapes to let the sunshine show your home to its best advantage. Make small repairs showing how well you have cared for the home such as replacing bathroom fixtures, oiling creaking doors, and replacing doorknobs to make the house look like new.
- Probity
Honesty and integrity are critical issues when selling a home. If you fail to disclose some information, you may be subject to a lawsuit. A disclosure statement is a legal document that reveals anything you know about the home's physical condition. It shows major repairs and what may lie ahead, including homeowner associations, easements, liens, and even neighborhood nuisances. Without this transparency, the sale may crumble before the transfer of ownership.
- Professional Partner
As you can see, selling a house is as complex a process as buying one. With so many possible pitfalls, the savvy seller knows the importance of a strong relationship with a trusted real estate agent. Agents can help guide you through each stage of the process. They will make suggestions to help you prioritize upgrades, arrange for professional services as required, and serve as your representative during negotiations.
Are you considering selling your home? Our agents are here to ease that process and help you maximize your profits. Contact us to discuss your options.