When preparing to sell a property, there are so many things you must consider. Plus, you have to try to look at your home through the buyer’s eyes. For now, let’s forget all the little details that go into a successful property sale. Maximizing your return when selling boils down to 3 main ingredients:
- Location
- The only factor you can’t control. But what’s going on around you? Is there commercial development, or is a new school going in down the street? Highlighting the highest and best use of what’s around you is a great way to divert attention from any negatives the buyer sees.
- When you’re buying, consider the location drawbacks. Will these concerns affect the use and enjoyment of the property? Thinking like a seller when you buy strengthens your position when selling the property down the road
- Your property location can influence the timing and price when you sell. If the property is at the front of a subdivision off of a busy highway, it’s likely the location will negatively affect the price. If your property is on a cul-de-sac, you can justify a little higher sales price. If it’s on a lake, you’ll want to list when water sports are in season.
- Timing
- Strategically timing your listing date will often gain value for the property.
- Use timing to highlight the best of your home: vaulted ceilings at Christmas to showcase holiday trees; if your gardens are spectacular in the spring, that’s when to photograph for future sales.
- Homes with pools and/or on water are in higher demand in warm months, so listing at that time will amplify your amenity’s value.
- Listing pictures show the home at its best; first impressions improve when your exterior pictures have green grass and blooming flowers.
- If you hope or plan to sell in 2023-2024, plan now to photograph your property at its best. While I prefer hiring a professional photographer, many smartphones today take professional-quality listing pictures.
- Price
- Only factor that sellers can always control.
- Easier to reduce price than increase it… when in doubt, list higher- but watch the market’s response carefully.
- Listen to your agent- if your agent is experienced, they’ll give you a recommended range. It’s ultimately your call on what price you go on the market at.
When you sell a property, start with evaluating your location, the timing to go on the market, and at what price. Set realistic expectations for selling- we are leaving a hyperextended seller’s market, so the past 2 years is not the actual normal way to buy and sell (for more info, check out Realtor.org’s statistics). If you’re looking to sell in the next 12 months, let’s chat! I list and sell properties all over Georgia, and if I can’t help you where you are, I definitely have a friend who can!
If you’re new here, hi! I’m Hope, I am a Georgia native and live in Houston County, GA with my husband, 2 kids, and 3 dogs. When I’m not selling real estate, you’ll find me spending time with my family, reading, listening to music, or playing with the dogs.
I’m a Realtor, an Accredited Buyer’s Representative, and a Military Relocation Professional. I love learning and problem solving… it’s my favorite! I’ve made it my mission to empower my clients to make well-informed decisions. I’ve been with Golden Key Realty, Inc. since 2012 and love my work family. If you have any questions about real estate in general or about buying, renting, or selling a property, let’s chat!
