5 Mistakes to Avoid When Selling Your House

A 2014 survey by The National Association of Realtors (NAR) revealed that on average, homeowners reside in the same house for a decade. The sentimentality of the homeowner upon listing can be a hindrance, but an experienced broker can help you navigate the emotions on either side of the contract.

Currently, nationwide, it is a seller's market. Here are five points to consider when selling your house so that you can get the best price in the shortest amount of time.

1. What you think your home is worth and the price you can sell it for are two very different numbers. Properties that are overpriced at the onset tend to eventually sell at a lower price than the would have if they'd been appropriately priced in the first place. Even in markets where inventory is tight, sellers need to be careful not to get too greedy when picking a listing price.

2. Professionally staged homes can sell five to seven times faster than non-staged homes, according to the Real Estate Staging Association.  De-cluttering and cleaning thoroughly are a must, cosmetic fixes and lighting are important, and repainting with a neutral color or professional landscaping are worthwhile as well.

3. You can make your buyers happy while also getting the price you need by being willing to accept slightly less than the asking price for your house. Agreeing to concessions like paying closing costs, including appliances, or making certain repairs can sweeten the deal.

4. Full disclosure is the best way to avoid a lawsuit.  Trying to cover up serious flaws could come back to haunt you later. If you aren't up front about your home's issues, the buyer may well discover them during the home inspection. Price your home appropriately given its condition and document the problems you're aware of, and have your buyer sign off on them.

5. Savvy sellers have contingency plans in place. To avoid getting stuck with two mortgages at once, not having a place to live, or how to protect yourself if a deal falls through. You may want to prepare to find temporary housing in case your home sells quickly. If there are multiple people interested in your house, you may be able to accept back-up offers.

TEAM GALE is the #1 Listing and #1 Sales Team at Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Advantage in southeastern North Carolina. We have agents on duty daily to answer all your real estate questions! We are in touch with local lenders, attorneys, builders, and other experts to help you withe every facet of buying and owning a home.

Our agents are well-versed in the market trends of the Cape Fear region and are happy to meet with you to discuss your options for buying, selling, or investing in real estate. Call today and ask about scheduling a free, no obligation market analysis of your property! Call today! 910-541-1212