So you’ve decluttered, painted, repaired and staged your home. You’re ready to sell! Knowing what to expect ahead of time can help you maintain a positive attitude throughout the selling process. It’s no secret that selling a home can be stressful, but remember these tips when you need to keep your positivity high and your frustrations low!
- Plan ahead. I always feel better when I have a well-laid plan, don’t you? It’s easier to follow steps than to make things up as you go. In the case of selling a home, there are often unexpected outcomes, but plan for what you can. Sit down with your realtor and look at a calendar. Decide upon your listing date, dates for open houses and the date you absolutely have to be out of your home.
- Get organized. Though realtors try to avoid it, some showings will likely be at inconvenient times and last minute. It’s just part of the process, and knowing that going in helps. You’ll be better prepared to face the challenges if you’re organized. Here are some things you can do to get ready:
- Make a to-do list of things to finish before each showing to get your home ready (turn on lights, wipe the bathroom, etc.)
- Create another list of all of the items you want to take with you (valuables, laundry baskets of clutter, etc.).
- Decide how you will handle your pets and have any needed items ready to go.
- Draft a list of things to do during showing times.
- Treat yourself. We realtors understand that it’s exhausting to keep your house spic and span, especially if you have children and pets. It can be tough to juggle it all, so be sure to treat yourself. If your budget allows, go out to eat once a week so on those nights you don’t have a kitchen to scrub and dishes to do. Could you hire a cleaning company once a month or every two weeks to give you a break? Do what you can to reduce stress during this time.
- Involve your children. Selling a home is tough on the kiddos, too. They may have fewer toys accessible, may not be able to be as free and messy as usual and probably face schedule interruptions. Create a reward system for keeping their rooms neat, or simply surprise them with treats for a job well done. Add some fun spots for them to your list of places to go during showings and open houses.
- Be open to feedback. If the process is taking longer than you’d hoped, seek feedback. Have your realtor ask prospective buyers for honest opinions and really listen to that feedback. There may be small adjustments you could make that you’d never considered.
As your staging realtor, I am here to make your home present in the best possible way! I am also here to give you fresh ideas for marketing and support to help you through frustrations. If you’re looking for a realtor to team up with in Northern Virginia, give me a call! I’d love to chat about your needs and help you with your real estate venture!
Warmly,
Marcia
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