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Selling your home can be a confusing and frustrating process that can leave you feeling overcome with a host of emotions. Whether you're looking forward to moving up to your dream home or if a relocation across the country has you facing a lot of uncertainty, there are plenty of practical matters that need your attention. You may be torn between leaving your memories behind and the anticipation of starting new adventures. Whatever feelings you're experiencing now, we can help the whole process go more smoothly.

We can help you sell your home faster and with less headaches. Most people only sell a home once or twice in their lifetime. We do this everyday! We're REALTORS^®...It's what we do!

Time Is Money

It's best to put your present home on the market as far in advance as possible of purchasing a new one. If you find a new home first and then try to sell your current home, you may end up with two mortgages. Should this happen, we your or Morgage Lender can tell you about a bridge loan that can help you make the payments on both mortgages. Once you qualify for a bridge loan, beware of the expense; during the term of the loan you are paying on both mortgages. It's important that you shop around for the best rates and terms.

When people move, sell and buy, it usually starts a chain of events. Moving day has to be coordinated with the closing date, and the more everyone can commit to a window of dates and stick to them, the better.

Do you have Curb Appeal?

A home's curb appeal will attract potential buyers driving down the street. Use this checklist to view your property through an outsider's eyes.

Is the landscape well maintained?
Are there noticible cracks in the foundation, driveway or walkways?
Does the driveway need cleaning or resurfacing?
Are the gutters, chimney and walls in good condition?
Do the window trim, shutters, siding or doors need a fresh coat of paint?
Are garbage containers and yard debris stored out of sight?
Are tools, mowers and hoses properly stored?
Is the garage door closed?

It's what's on the Inside that counts

Now that your home looks good on the outside it will lure potential buyers inside, where the house has to live up to their expectations. Luckily, there are some easy improvements you can make without spending a lot of money. The first is cleaning. Everything should sparkle from the windows, floors and the bathroom fixtures. Change the filters in the heating and air conditioning with clean filters. Have the carpets shampooed, clean the tubs and showers, repair leaky faucets and oil that annoying squeaky door. Keep the house tidy, clean and picked-up at all times. Let's face it, a simple peek inside the oven may be the one thing a buyer sees as to how well you have maintained your home.

Get rid of that clutter from the garage, basement, attic and closets. Remove any items that might be questionable or may be considered offensive to others. If you have too much furniture, you may want to put some things into storage. If you are thinking of doing any painting, consider using neutral or off-white colors. How does the home smell to others?. You may be used to the smell of a pet or cigarettes, but such odors can be a strong turn-off to potential buyers. Conversely, using different types of air fresheners and scents to disguise odors can be equally devastating. Try non-scented room deodorizers or air purifiers for best results. Keep jewelry and other valuable items from plain site. Finally, set a mood for the buyer. Make the house inviting with live flowers and fresh guest towels in the bathroom. Before an Open House or if you know a potential buyer is coming, bake up a batch of cookies in the oven for a welcoming aroma.

Keep in mind that cosmetic changes don't have cost a fortune. In fact, costly home improvements don't always bring a good return on your investment when you sell. Attention to details -- If it says "this home has been well maintained and cared for" -- it will help you get top market value.

What is a Fair Price?

Naturally, you want to get top dollar for your home. But, at the same time, you don't want to price it too high and scare off potential buyers. By setting an artificially high price, your property may sit on the market for months. Reducing the asking price later on may lead buyers to wonder if there is something wrong with the property. Here are some things to consider when pricing your home.

Location, location, location. (Maybe you've heard this one before?)
Economic conditions
Supply and demand in the local housing market
Seasonal influences
Local schools
Average home prices in the neighborhood
Extras in your home -- pool, fireplace, etc.

To help make sure your home is priced rigth from the start, contact us and ask us to prepare a FREE comparative market analysis (CMA) for you. We can show you the recent selling prices of properties in the neighborhood that are similar to yours. We can then adjust for any unique features of your home.

Click on any of these downloadable files for more free tips & guides to selling your home.