Although we are going to do most of the leg-work and deal with the agents and buyers, there are many things
that you can do to ensure the best possible outcome. Here are a few tips:
Your Critical Role
Make the Property Accessible
You never know where the one buyer for your house is going to come from and most importantly, when they’re going to want to come and view it. Ensuring that the house is accessible and that you are available via phone or email to confirm appointments is critical to ensuring that we don’t miss any opportunities.
Be Flexible
Odds are, the buyer for your home is seeing 3 – 6 others that same day. If they want to come at 5pm and you want them to come at 7pm, they may cancel entirely. Try to allow showings when ever you can. If there are certain restrictions on showing times, let us know so we can put it on the listing in an area where only Realtors can see. That way they already know about the restrictions and can schedule around them.
Keep the House Clean
Again, just as in the point above, you never know when someone is coming, the better you can stay on top of keeping it clean, the better the chance of maximizing every opportunity.
Try Not to Be Home
Although some sellers believe that they can do a better job selling their home than anyone else, nothing makes a prospective buyer more uncomfortable than having the homeowner present for a showing. If possible, take a little trip to the grocery store or the coffee shop…it’s for the best!
Leave the Lights On
If you’re going to be home before and shortly after the showing, please leave all of the lights on. It will create a far better first impression for the buyer.
Keep Everything Confidential
It is natural for your friends, family and co-workers to be curious about how things are going with the sale of your home. Make sure you never disclose your motivation or the price you’re willing to accept with anybody else. When an offer comes in, respectfully decline anybody’s wishes to know the price or terms…you never know who else is listening, especially in a small town. The only thing NOT to keep confidential is how great of a job Ted & Jamie are doing for you!
Keep an Open Line of Communication with Us
It is very important for us to know that all of your expectations are being met and exceeded. If at any time, you find that we’re failing to do so, please let us know ASAP and we will get it resolved.
Keep Your Emotions in Check
Most people have an emotional attachment to their home, and you’re probably no different. However, those who can keep their emotions at a minimum have far more success during the transaction. Remember, just as you will be when you go to buy a house, the buyers for your home want the best possible terms they can negotiate. Don’t get offended if an offer comes in below your asking price…the initial offer price isn’t always the maximum a buyer will pay. This is where our sharp negotiating skills come in!