For-sale signs have taken over your block, the local jobs market doesn’t look great, and big red price reduction labels tarnish most of the online home listings in your area. You’ve got enough evidence to conclude that you’re in a slow real estate market and the odds aren’t in your favor when you sell your house.
Given that we have no control over the state of the economy or the pace of home sales, you’ll need to channel your competitive side and think of this as your next challenge. Even in sluggish markets, houses still sell. Achieve a successful home sale with the right game plan and avoids these common mistakes.
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Mistake #1: Minimal house prep
Selling your house in a slow market is not for the hasty or lazy. You’ll need to put in some sweat equity to prepare the house and bring it to stellar condition.
“Not prepping the house inside and out is number one home sellers make — especially in a slow market,” says Lex Lianos, a Northern Virginia agent who’s sold 83% more properties in the area than his peers.
“You need to clean, declutter and stage your home or your dooming your sale from the start.”
No matter which type of market you’re facing, you’ll need to deep clean and declutter to meet the bare minimum buyer expectations. However, in a buyer’s market, don’t be surprised if you have to go beyond that to tackle a handful of repairs and upgrades to make your home’s desirability rise above the competition.
Here’s what you need to tackle:
- Declutter and deep clean: A messy, dirty house screams neglect. Clear out unnecessary items and scrub every room top to bottom to make your home feel fresh and spacious.
- Maintain the yard: First impressions matter, and a neglected yard can turn buyers away before they even step inside. Stage your outdoor space properly to attract buyers. Keep the lawn trimmed, remove weeds, and plant some flowers for a welcoming touch.
- Clean or replace carpets: Stained or worn-out carpets make a home feel old. Get them professionally cleaned or install new ones for a more polished look.
- Paint the interior: A fresh coat of neutral-colored paint brightens up rooms and makes the space feel move-in ready. Avoid bold colors that might not appeal to buyers.
- Remove dirt and cobwebs from the entrance: A dusty, cobweb-filled entryway gives the impression that the home hasn’t been maintained. Wipe down doors, windows, and light fixtures to create a more inviting entrance.
- Trim trees and add fresh mulch: Overgrown trees can make a property look neglected, and fresh mulch instantly makes flower beds pop. A little effort in the yard goes a long way in boosting curb appeal.
- Paint the exterior: A dull, peeling exterior makes buyers assume the home is in poor shape. A fresh coat of paint modernizes the look and signals that the home has been well cared for.
A staged home not only sells faster than an unstaged one but can also command a higher price. By highlighting the home’s best features and creating a welcoming atmosphere, staging helps buyers emotionally connect to the space. It also makes the property look more move-in ready, reducing buyer hesitation. Plus, homes that present well in photos and showings tend to attract more interest, leading to quicker sales and stronger offers.