Are you thinking about selling your home? Now is a great time! As REALTORS in the Chicagoland area for over 15 years, we know the market, and here are a few things to consider before you list your home.
First, you have to find a real estate agent that you can trust. This is a big decision and you need to know that the agent is acting in your best interest. There is a lot of communication behind the scenes between agents, especially when negotiating an offer. You have to trust this agent. I recommend interviewing a few and going with your gut.
Cluttered homes are harder to sell. A clean, organized home sells faster and for more money.
You have to price your home to sell. Going high does not work and only eats up market time. The longer a home stays on the market, the further below the list price it drops. Homes that sold in the first 4 weeks averaged 1% more than the list price; 4 to 12 weeks averaged 5% less; 13 to 24 weeks averaged 6.4% less; than the list price; and 24 weeks averaged more than 10% less than list price (according to the National Association of Realtors study). Also – aiming high helps your neighbors! If your home is too high, but a certain buyer is looking in that neighborhood, this would lead them to the other house.
Selling a home can be inconvenient (unless vacant). In this market especially, showings can happen often (when priced right). If you have children and pets, add more of an inconvenience to the plate. Not to scare you off from selling, (we need inventory so it is a great time to sell) but knowing this ahead of time and anticipating the process will help for a smoother transaction.
Remove personal photos in your home. Buyers have to envision themselves in your home.
We highly recommend professional photography and home staging to get your home looking great! Most home buyers are shopping online, and you only get one chance to make a first impression.
If you are ready to decide to sell your home, we would love to chat more! Give us a call: 630.862.7058
The Baran Group Real Estate
St. Charles, IL
Your Local Real Estate Experts!