If you're like most people, your home is one of the biggest investments you'll ever make. When it comes time to sell it, you're facing a very emotional decision and a major financial transaction. There are ways to make things go smoothly.

Choosing A Great Agent...
     When you choose an agent, you are choosing the person that will market your home to the public and to other agents. Make sure you feel comfortable with the agent. Be honest with the person...don't make them guess what your financial goals might be. Ask about the marketing program to be used on your home. Find out about the Real Estate company. Is it a well-known company? You'll want to list your home with a company that enjoys a good reputation and attracts lots of listings and plenty of buyers. Listen to what your agent has to tell you about the local market conditions. Ask for advice on how to present your home to the best advantage. Are there repairs to be done? Cleanup work? Painting? Remember, when you sign a listing contract, your agent has a vested interest in selling your home. The agent doesn't get paid until your home sells. A great agent will listen, advise, and promote in an effort to sell your home.

A Good First Impression Begins Outside!
     Make sure the front lawn and shrubs look neat and well trimmed. Plant some extra flowers for color. Check the fence line and make any necessary repairs. Put away lawn equipment, arrange toys neatly and clean up after Lassie. Check your front door...dingy? A fresh coat of paint and pretty wreath will do wonders. Take a look at the garage doors, the mailbox, rain gutters, shingles and exterior lights. If you would find one of these unacceptable in your new home, chances are your buyer will feel the same about your house. Keep the garage door closed for showings.

Come on In...
     No matter the season, do your spring cleaning before going on the market. Remove excess clutter..."prepack". You're planning on moving and will have to do it anyway. Make closets and cupboards look as spacious as possible. Kitchen and baths should sparkle. Windows and mirrors should shine. If the carpet looks dirty or has "doggy odor", have it cleaned. Clean up the basement (yes, even around the furnace. If its full of dust balls and cobwebs, it will be difficult for a buyer to believe that it is serviced regularly!)

It's A Beautiful Home...
     If your agent has suggested a fresh coat of paint or new carpeting, it may be the best investment you can make. The homes that sell the fastest and bring the best price are the ones that are in the best condition and require little or no "re-do" from the new owner.

How to Show Your Home
     Regardless of the time of day...turn ALL the lights on inside the house. Bright is cheerful and makes people feel good. Make sure everything is clean and orderly. Set your dining room table for company. Fresh flowers add a nice touch. A pot of cinnamon, cloves and orange slices simmering in water leaves an inviting aroma. Take the kids and the dog for a walk until the showing is finished.

Ready, Willing & Able....
     Be READY to show your house at all times. If necessary, tell your agent you require several hours notice. We never like to say "no" to a showing. Be WILLING to listen to the market. Just like the stock market, the prices in the local real estate market change. The value of a property is set by similar homes that have sold. If the house next door sold for $100,000 and it is exactly like yours...don't expect to get $110,000! Be ABLE to keep your sense of humor. Having your home on the market can be a very frustrating time. Remember, not everyone will like your house...not because there is something wrong with your home. Rather, each buyer is looking to fill specific needs for his or her family. When a buyer doesn't care for a house it is because that house just doesn't fit the way that particular family lives. Don't despair...new buyers come to the market every day.

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