Ask Phyllis!

Planning On A Spring Sale

Dear Phyllis,

I have been enjoying your Q + A for years. And I have a question:  We will be selling our home in the spring. What could we be doing today that will simplify the process.  Donna

Dear Donna,

Select your Realtor®: Do some research to find an experienced real estate agent who is knowledgeable about your local real estate market. Maybe you have met an agent at an open house that you connected with.  You can also ask friends, family members and co-workers for their recommendation. Be sure to check their online reviews and ask for references.

Once you have hired your real estate agent, he/she can help you decide what is most important for you.  Do you want to spend the time, energy and money to prepare your home so that you can sell for the highest price? Or is it important to sell with the least effort? Or are you somewhere in between?

I love when home sellers get me involved early in the process. There are so many simple things that can be taken care of beforehand.  Planning ahead allows you to ensure that your curb appeal is addressed.  A gardener can trim back hedges and trees so that your home is clearly visible.  You will have ample time to get a lush green lawn.

In over twenty five years of selling real estate I have never had a client who didn’t tell me that they moved things to their new home that should have been dealt with previously; either by donation or trash. Declutter, and then declutter again.

You and your agent may decide that you need a fresh coat of paint.  Have your Realtor® or home stager assist you with color selection. I have two favorite painters, and they are typically booked a month out. So you can see why planning ahead is the key to getting your home on the market in a timely manner.

A leisurely game plan will alleviate a lot of the stress involved with selling your home.  Best of luck to you on your move.