6 things to consider before selling your home

Realtor Linda Turner PREC shares her tips for selling property.

1. Choose your realtor wisely

Even if you were happy with the realtor who sold you your home, or you have a strong recommendation from a friend, Turner suggests interviewing three or so candidates to see if they’re a good fit. “It’s important to have someone who listens to your needs, not just giving you the highest list price,” she says. “Going with a realistic price to start is always better than reducing it later.” Realtors like Turner will be familiar with the local market, so they know what similar houses to yours have sold for and can come up with a suitable price.

2. Declutter, clean and refresh

Try to look at your home from a buyer’s perspective. They want to be able to imagine themselves living there from the moment they see the house. Some small changes can make a big difference: Paint the front door and tidy the garden, pack away clutter and mess, and clean the house from attic to basement. Aside from making your home more appealing to buyers, it’ll make the packing process simpler when you come to moving out. Linda has more tips on her website here.

3. Update maintenance items

It’s not just about the appearances. Issues like old hot water tanks (more than 10 years old) can be off-putting to buyers. It may seem like a big expense before the sale, but for a buyer, knowing they won’t have to replace the furnace when they move in can tip them into making an offer.   

4. Plan your next step

If someone falls in love with your home, it can sell fast, and the last thing you want is to lose a serious buyer because you don’t have a plan. Figure out your next move!

5. Don’t be afraid to sell year round

It’s true that spring is the time when many homes are bought and sold, but there’s also more competition. “Homes sell year round and often for better prices, so don’t wait around. When you’re ready to move, don’t be afraid to sell, whatever the time of year,” says Turner.

Connect with Linda at www.LindaTurner.bc.ca, or email [email protected].