I just read a very timely article by Laura Gaskill, contributor for Houzz.com., certainly a hot topic for us right now regarding home preparation for sellers listing their homes. We have some beautiful new listings in the Scottsdale area and this is a conversation we have with our owners every time. Cashman Partners chooses to create a punch list for our clients, to help them identify and check off necessary repairs, removal of unnecessary items, and perhaps improvements that may help get their homes sold more quickly.
In general there are eight considerations, things you should ask yourself as a seller thinking about listing your property.
1) Is the market in your favor right now? Are you fighting for buyers or are there plenty?
2) What is your timing? Do you want a quick sale or are you comfortable waiting?
3) What is the condition of other homes you are competing with?
4) Does the issue needing attention or repair indicate that you may have other deferred maintenance in the eyes of a potential buyer?
5) Is there a less expensive alternative fix that might do the trick?
6) How much will NOT addressing the issue potentially cost you in your sales price?
7) Is the issue prominent? Is it something that a potential buyer will see right away?
8) Could the issue be a deal breaker?
As Realtors we work with our clients to move through some of these decisions. Some potential buyers want move-in ready homes, while others are fine with some cosmetic enhancements. At the end of the day, we are hired to maximize the sales price for our potential sellers. Considering these items and helping our sellers see things from a buyer’s perspective will ensure a smoother more successful listing period and ultimately, a contract.
