Selling a home in a declining market starts with a proper attitude and finding the right real estate professional who is optimistic and knows the right sales techniques in this tough market, even though most people and economists are down on the housing market, it doesn't mean that you cant sell your home.
The truth of the matter is many people will sell their homes between now and this summer. While many sellers and real estate agents take a reactive approach to market conditions, those sellers who take a more proactive and realistic approach to the market will be the ones who sell their homes. These are the sellers who take advantage of this market and move up to their dream home! First, be honest about appraising the condition of your home.
The key to successful selling in a declining market is pricing your home at todays market value, having your home in tip-top condition and being able to work with a prospective buyer on financing needs and terms. Don't let your ego or pride get in the way when determining a price for your home. Put yourself in the buyers shoes and walk across the street, turn around and look at your home. Curb appeal to a new buyer is very important and is many-times overlooked.
Secondly, take a leisurely walk though your home jotting down the little things that you could do to spruce it up. New carpeting, a fresh coat of paint, new light fixtures, mirrors, etc., are items that will give your home more emotional appeal and does not cost too much. Put away the clutter throughout the home. Rooms free of clutter will appeat larger and the new buyer can visually move into your home much easier. Remember, new buyers are not buying your furniture.
Finally, be patient. The reale state market has changed considerably since the last run-up where homes sold in hours or days. We are now experiencing a more normal market where homes take 90-120 days to sell. Remember, inventories are at an all-time high right now. Bank forclosures are all around you and many buyers will have difficulty qualifying for a new loan. Lenders also have very strict guidelines now and consumer confidence is very low. Allowing for a normal marketing period will do a lot to alleviate your impatience when you have few showings of your home or a lack of offers to review.
A good real estate professional will keep you abreast of market changes, activity on your home and others in the neighborhood, while maintaining a teamwork concept that is paramount for a successful sale. Properties need ample time to be exposed to the public and finding the right buyer requires a good understanding of the market as well as sales values. In all honesty, there are no easy answers but one thing is for certain, even in the worst markets, there are people selling homes and taking their equity!