Before You List: Complete These 5 Tasks

It may be frustrating to realize that the housing market is cooling when you need to sell. But remember that even though interest rates are rising, home values are still high. If you sell now, you are still positioned to make a sizable profit. Our real estate agents would like to point out a few things to keep in mind to maximize that profit.

1. Make the Inside Sparkle
   A clean house is a comfortable house, so make it shine. Professional deep cleaning is well worth the price. Paint is the least expensive and often most important investment you can make when selling your house. As you depersonalize each room, you may find nail holes and minor dings that should be repaired before you paint. By renting a storage unit off-site, you can pack and store all those personal items that mean so much to you and allow potential buyers to imagine their belongings filling the space. As you consider upgrades, be mindful of the potential return on investment and be smart with your money. If the upgrade won't pay for itself in increased profits, leave them to the buyer.
   
   
2. Pay Attention to Curb Appeal
   Make the house stand out to potential buyers driving through the neighborhood. Begin by making sure there's no clutter in the yard. At the very least, make sure the yard is clean and in good repair. Consider painting doors and windows. Polish brass to a gleam and replace locks or lighting that has seen better days. Outdoor living spaces are all the rage, so consider fire pits, decks, outdoor lighting, and cooking areas. Replace sagging gutters and make sure they stay free of leaves and debris. If painting the exterior isn't within the budget, powerwash the house to make it look its best.
   
   
3. Ask for the Right Price
   Pricing property accurately is always challenging, and this is one area you should solicit help. It can be helpful to talk to friends and family that have recent experience with the housing market on Long Island, but a real estate professional is your best starting point. Agents have many tools at their disposal to help them create a comparative marketing analysis, or CMA, to help you establish a good price. A price that is higher than the market allows could leave the home languishing on the market. Conversely, a low price point may mean a quick sale but less than optimal profits.
   
   
4. Plan an Effective Marketing Scheme
   If you can choose the time of year you will start marketing the house, consider when the market is hottest. Consult with the professionals to make that determination and plan repairs and upgrades around this target date. When the work is complete, a professional photographer can capture the most appealing images of the house.  
   
   
5. Creating an Interesting Message
   This is the point at which you seek the attention of potential buyers. Your real estate agent will focus on the features that make your home special and can showcase them in photographs and a virtual tour.  

When you read these points, it's easy to see the importance of partnering with an expert in the field to get the best price for your home. Don't wait until you're ready to sell. Contact us before you start the process.