Why, because I am suggesting that someone who has never sold a house and has a horrendous commute should fully consider the benefits and pitfalls of FSBO versus using a Realtor?
No, because I was an agent and you sound like a representative of NAR...and because you know what NAR is. Oh, and because you're capitolizing "Realtor".
I've been an agent. I've bought FSBO and via MLS listing through an agent. I've looked at houses. I've seen behind the scenes in real estate. Your presentation is very one sided, towards realtors.
I'm not saying they should sell FSBO. Or with an agent. It's really a decision that's up to them. I don't like seeing someone present such a severely one sided argument with scare tactics about thieves rather than helpful points. If you're an investor, why not add pointers on helping to sell the house, rather than why he should only use a realtor.
A FSBO seller is ahead of the game if he can advertise a fresh professional appraisal. It could be the thing to entice a potential buyer who is reluctant to consider FSBOs.
I agree. But at their potential price point, it might be money better spent on presentation.
Pete, have you ever watched any of the HGTV shows like buying and selling? A lot of it is superficial to the area (that one in particular, they usually go very modern), but the underlying pointers are there. If you choose to go with an agent, interview a few. Ask them to explain their pricing, show you comps, and see if they can point out things you might be able to do that wouldn't cost a lot but might get you more money. A good agent should know your area, the buyers and what they want. Right now, neutral earth tones seem big for wall colors like sagey green, grey/blue. Of course granite and stainless steel, but those are big $$. A simple fresh coat of paint and new handles/knobs in the kitchen might be as effective at your price point. I would say if possible, have the stove running with flames showing when potential buyers are coming over. This time of the year it's homey and comfortable seeming. I know it's an old trick but it seems to work, try baking an apple pie, or using scented candles, or even some spices or lemons boiling on the stove (you can probably boil them, then let them cool). Avoid eating strong smelling foods like fish, chinese food, etc. I agree with whomever suggesting having friends over to evaluate it for you. You'll want his and hers opinions. I mess around with Pinterest a lot, you can get a good idea of current trends there. I use it to help me design my cards
it's good research. I'm not saying you need to drop 10K on redecorating, but a few hundred in paint and little "touches" might net you a few extra thousand in asking price-or at least a quicker sale. I don't know how many houses that compare to yours are on the market, but it might pay to check them out and see what you can do to make yours stand out from those. Make buyers fall in love with your house, make them see their family there..baking cookies in the kitchen and putting up a tree by the stove. If people can see themselves there, they are more likely to make an offer.
Here, like this one:
http://www.zillow.com/homedetails/315-E-Pearl-St-Ovid-MI-48866/74688840_zpid/
It's been on the market 115 days or there abouts. Look at that kitchen. it screams DATED. Paint the cabinets and lay an inexpensive laminate floor and it's a whole new place.
A good agent can access the MLS photos of sold properties and you can see what they looked like. They can also tell you how long they were on the market. Look for ones that sold quickly, and see what they looked like.
What a joke..
