Popular commercials make it seem so easy to sell a Tampa house but few things could be farther from the truth. While it may be possible to simply set a sign in the front yard and expect to get top price during a rapidly appreciating market, current Tampa home sellers are much more likely to encounter an empty house during their open house showing.
Learn how agents make a real difference when it comes to these home listing essentials.
1. Price Right – The old adage “asking aint’ getting” may not demonstrate the best grammar but it gets the sentiment right. One of the most important things sellers can do before listing their home is to perform up to the minute research on comparable property sales. With builders and developers dumping property – that often includes detailed examination into amenities and bonus items that may be included in the sales price – not simply square footage and general location.
2. Descriptions – Descriptions matter more than you might imagine. Unless you happen to be a marketing executive that specializes in the local economy- chances are you may not be fully familiar with what buyers are searching for in your zip code. What words really stand out to prospective buyers? What amenities are they searching for? Even more importantly…what constitutes a red flag that will drive away qualified buyers? If you aren’t sure then chances are you will have a timely and often expensive lesson to learn.
3. Marketing and Advertising – It takes more than merely putting a sign in the front yard. Research indicates over 80 percent of home buyers begin their search online and use a variety of nationwide and local resources. Increasingly they also read agent blogs to determine intangible information that is difficult to find in other places. Your agent should be technology savvy and well acquainted with email, online advertising and the use of blogs or other online technology to assure your home will receive maximum exposure.
4. Show & Tell – Unless you have a lot of time on your hands plan to miss work and otherwise accommodate schedules in order to show your home. Rescheduling, delays and missed appointments are a sure-fire way to send the best buyers to other homes – in today’s market they simply won’t wait. It is also necessary to be able to answer all types of questions and concerns with data – not just simply opinions.
5. Location, Location, Location – You have heard it said so many times but sellers still fail to ask how much experience an agent has in their specific location and type of property. Before placing your home for sale, interview the agent to verify their expertise in the area. Ask how many actually sell the homes they list – many simply list a home then move on. Insist upon full service professionals that will work to negotiate the best price for your property.
6. Staging – While you might think the Florida pink paint looked just perfect, it could turn away prospective buyers. Go with a pro who knows what sells and what doesn’t. Then be prepared to actually listen and learn from the experience and expertise provided. Simple changes to colors, upgrades and other items can often reap large profits at the closing table.