DECLUTTER. DETACH. DESTRESS.

4 Tips for Seniors Ready to Sell Their Home

Selling a home can be a huge stress, and for the 60+ crowd, it can be even more stressful. Why? Because after living in homespun bliss for longer than the average homeowner, it may be harder to “let go” and do what it takes to get the very best price from the sale.

Even in today’s housing market, in which high buyer demand paired with record-low housing inventory is creating the ultimate seller’s market, sellers are not guaranteed success no matter what. There are still some key things to know so you can avoid costly mistakes and win big when you make your move.

1. Price Your House Right
When inventory is low, like it is in the current market, it’s common to think buyers will pay whatever you ask when setting a listing price. Believe it or not, that’s not always true. Even in a sellers’ market, listing your house for the right price will maximize the number of buyers that see your house. This creates the best environment for bidding wars, which in turn are more likely to increase the final sale price. A real estate professional is the best person to help you set the best price for your house so you can achieve your financial goals.

2. Keep Your Emotions in Check
Today, homeowners are living in their houses for longer periods of time. Since 1985, the average time a homeowner owned their home has increased from 5 to 10 years. This is several years longer than what used to be the historical norm. For many seniors, home tenure is even longer. The side effect, however, is when you stay in one place for so long, you may get even more emotionally attached to your space. If it’s the first home you purchased or the house where your children grew up, it very likely means something extra special to you. Every room has memories, and it’s hard to detach from that sentimental value.

For some homeowners, that connection makes it even harder to separate the emotional value of the house from the fair market price. That’s why you need a real estate professional to help you with the negotiations along the way.

3. Stage Your House Properly
You may be quite proud of your décor and how you’ve customized your house to make it your own.

However, not all buyers will feel the same way about your design and personal touches. That’s why it’s so important to make sure you stage your house with the buyer in mind.

Buyers want to envision themselves in the space so it truly feels like it could be their own. They need to see themselves inside with their furniture and keepsakes – not your pictures and decorations. Stage, clean, and declutter so they can visualize their own dreams as they walk through each room. A real estate professional can help you with tips to get your home ready to stage and sell.

4. Make a Grand Entrance
It takes just a quick glance, maybe three seconds, for someone to evaluate your home when seen for the first time. This look-see typically happens online within the first 24 hours of your home going on the market. Making a good first impression, online, on the first day is critical for attracting buyer interest and increasing ROI. Professional photos, video, 3D tour and copywriting helps buyers get an immersive experience of your home. Working with a real estate professional pays off in an elevated marketing presence designed to get buyers  to ” ” it!

Testimonial
“I wanted to express my appreciation for the work you did to sell our home. You and your team did an excellent job of keeping in consistent and frequent communication, ensuring my wife and I knew exactly what was going on. From the fabulous video to the final offer on our property, we always knew where we stood and were confident that the sale of our property was a priority to you. Your expertise and personal touch made all the difference in what is often a very difficult experience. We thank you for your efforts and would not hesitate to recommend you and your team.” – Al P

Bottom Line
Today’s sellers’ market might be your best chance to make a move. If you’re considering selling your house, let’s connect today so you have the expert guidance you need to navigate through the process and prioritize these key elements to get the very best price from your sale.

Peter G Laughlin Group
941.356.8428 | PeterGLaughlin.com