I write this post with a bit of trepidation. For Sale By Owner you say, what’s the big deal? As a licensed real estate broker, I can appreciate that for many of my colleagues, for sale by owner is competition. Some may go as far to view for sale by owner as a threat.
The reality is that for sale by owner is likely less than 10% of the market of sold homes. It’s difficult for busy home owners that may not have the time, energy, experience, tools, and perspective of a licensed broker, to sell for sale by owner. Especially in this down market, for sale by owner can be a challenge in Albany and Saratoga, but it can be done. If you are looking at for sale by owner, I encourage you to visit my website for tips and assistance in selling your home.
As an example of how to properly execute for sale by owner, let me provide this advice. You will want to consider how you can increase the value and maximize the potential of your home. Some of these steps require more time and energy. But remember this is a competitive buyer’s market. The more you can distinguish your property and simplify the transaction, the more likely buyers will find your home irresistible.
- Consider the timing of your listing – seasons matter as do regional, national, and international economic trends.
- Consider what comparable homes in your neighborhood have sold for in the last year.
- Organize your cabinets, basement, attic, and downsize the clutter.
- Make all repairs and improvements you would want in your home.
- Develop a custom website to feature your property’s specifics and photos.
- Design flyers both for open houses as well as posting outside, usually attached to your for sale sign.
- Schedule an open house and consider advertising the date and time in your local paper.
- Pay for priority listing on popular real estate websites such as Trulia.com, Zillow.com, the Times Union, and Realtor.com.
If you’ve got the ambition, the right house, the right time, the right tools, and the right eye you can sell your home for sale by owner. If you take the time now – months and even years in advance of your sale – to upgrade your home and do the necessary repairs, it will pay dividends when you sell. You want the stresses of homebuying to evaporate as buyers enter your home and realize they don’t have to do a thing to fully enjoy your house.
Whether you’re a home owner in Saratoga or Albany or parts in between, this advice applies. Remember, one of the most important factors in selling is the condition of your home. Check out the website for additional tips, and if you have questions do not hesitate to contact me.