The four main components on which real estate agents coach clients on are staging, the smells and atmosphere of the home, landscaping, and home maintenance, says RE/MAX Impact agent Sara Walsh.
Clients should give the agent a tour of the home, making note of any constructive criticism he or she has to offer: moving, removing or replacing furniture, painting walls, removing pictures, and so on. Before potential buyers come in, the seller should depersonalize the home, removing anything bearing the family name, family photos and anything that may make potential buyers feel as if they’re walking into someone else’s home.
To get the best advice for your home and your potential buyers, Keller Williams Realty agent Stacy McVey recommends finding an agent who works within your neighborhood, or even the agent who originally sold you the home. He or she will be able to explain the competition, area price points and what buyers who are interested in the area are looking for – and will be able to offer deeper knowledge than an Internet search, as websites may have outdated information.
Sellers should also be sure to sit down and make a list of their goals before listing the home, such as by what date they’d like to sell, over what dollar amount they’d like to sell and the convenience of home showings.
Amanda DePerro is an assistant editor. Feedback welcome at gbishop@cityscenemediagroup.com.
