Denver’s homes For Sale inventory is constantly changing, in a generally slow 2011 recovery, beginning in 2009. Despite interest rates at 40 year lows, Buyers are cautious, taking longer to shop, compare, and make contract offers. As such, a Buyers’ Market requires that Sellers ask no more than market value, offer homes in excellent condition, and not ask a higher price at first, planning to “get real” later with “Plan B Pricing”.
If You’re Selling, Be Sure To:
1 Interview Agents If seasoned, they’ve sold hundreds, if not thousands of properties. Why not hire the wisdom it has taken them decades to develop? Otherwise, lack of experience and wisdom can be extremely expensive for you. What is their Marketing Plan, On Line Property Strategy, Photography Commitment, Website Presence, Showings Report process, Client Communication Plan, and Negotiating Style ??
2. Agent Walk Through Objectively have your agent play Buyer, walk your property, and suggest not just a “To Do” List, but a “Forget It” List. The eyes of Buyers are different from yours; spend the time and dollars where your return is at least 100%. Otherwise, drop it from the project list.
3. Repair high impact, high return items like painting and general clean up that must be done since very few Buyers are inclined to buy your unfinished projects, although they are willing to pay a higher dollar for the convenience of instant Home.
4. Mechanical Systems: Professionally check furnace, roof, and any questionable structural items. Your agent will have these resources at their finger tips.
5. Staging: Take a marketing cue from builders who invest millions, staging their model homes for the ultimate impact. Have your Agent bring in their Home Stager, another proven team professional who creates the most appeal for your home.
6. Patience: Make the lifestyle sacrifices that showings require. Keep the property extra clean, and always be elsewhere when Buyers arrive.
7. Be Realistic: Price your property to Sell, not just List. It’s a Buyers’ Market.
8. The Big Picture: You may think you’re selling a house, but the Buyers are buying how the house “makes them feel.” That’s where professional marketing comes into the picture, creating a comprehensive statement from the tangible to the intangible, start to finish. It’s the aroma in the Coffee Shop, Italian Café, or pastry shop that wakes up your yearning, it’s the invitation created by Marketing that works wonders.