Selling your home can be a complex process, and while you may be familiar with the basics, there are some key considerations that can help you navigate the sale more smoothly and successfully. Beyond the obvious steps, these insights can help you avoid common pitfalls and achieve the best possible outcome.
Full disclosure is crucial when selling your home. Failing to accurately report issues on your property disclosure statement can lead to serious consequences. In the best-case scenario, your realtor might catch the problem before the sale is finalized, but if the buyer discovers it later, you could face legal challenges. Buyers often hire home inspectors, so it's likely that any major issues will come to light. It's best to be transparent from the start to avoid complications down the road. While disclosing problems might affect your home’s value, hiding them could end up costing much more in the long run.
Depersonalize Your Space
Got that bowling trophy from your 1995 Beer League bowling championship proudly displayed on your mantle? Well once your home is on the market, it’s no longer just your personal space—it’s a product. Potential buyers need to be able to imagine themselves living there, which can be difficult if the home is filled with personal photos, souvenirs, or decor. Neutralizing your home’s appearance helps buyers connect emotionally with the space, which can lead to stronger offers. Aim to create an inviting, neutral environment that appeals to a wide audience.
Over time, we all accumulate belongings, (thats just a nice way of saying "stuff") but when it comes to selling, less is definitely more. Decluttering your home makes it feel more spacious and organized. Clear off countertops, tidy up closets, and consider storing excess items or oversized furniture to showcase your home in its best light. Decluttering not only improves the home’s appearance but also gives you a head start on packing (or disposing of) for your upcoming move.
While it’s exciting to see interest from potential buyers, it’s important to remember that not every showing will result in an offer. On average, buyers view several homes before making a decision. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t receive offers immediately. Feedback (good or bad) from potential buyers, can help fine-tune your approach and improve your chances of securing an offer.
Buyers often have tight schedules, especially if they’ve already sold their home or are facing a rental deadline. Being flexible with showing times is crucial to increasing your home’s exposure. If you limit availability for viewings, you may miss out on serious buyers who are on a timeline. The more accommodating you are, the more likely you are to attract the right buyer. Think of it as a store, once you are on the market, the store needs to open. Wether that private showings or weekend opens, the ability for access is important.
Even in a competitive market like Vancouver, bidding wars don’t happen for every home. Whether or not you experience one depends on factors like pricing, the condition of your home, and the level of competition in your area. The best way to position your home for multiple offers is to price it strategically and ensure it’s well-presented and marketed effectively. A knowledgeable realtor can help assess the situation and guide you in setting a competitive price.
While it’s understandable to expect a return on investment from home renovations, unlike what you see on HGTV or any of those other shows my wife likes, not all upgrades add the same level of value. Updates to kitchens and bathrooms tend to offer the highest returns, while more personalized or niche improvements may not appeal to a broad range of buyers. (did that doggy gate cost you $1500, well that won't mean much if the buyer has a cat) It’s important to focus on neutral, widely appealing changes if you’re looking to maximize your home’s resale value. If you’re unsure which updates will have the greatest impact, a sellers consultation can provide valuable insight.
Not all buyers (and their realtors) will be equally respectful of your time. It’s not uncommon for some agents or buyers to arrive late to showings, and while this can be frustrating, it's important to remain patient. Delays can happen due to traffic, schedule conflicts, or other unforeseen circumstances, but being flexible helps keep the process smooth and respectful for all parties involved.
These days, most buyers begin their search online, often eliminating homes they don’t like before ever stepping foot inside. This makes your online listing incredibly important. Professional photos, a compelling description, and effective digital marketing are key to attracting buyers to view your home in person. Make sure your home’s online presence stands out and reflects its true appeal.
As a homeowner, you might not notice subtle odours in your home, but buyers will. Whether it’s from smoking, pets, cooking, or something else, strong smells can leave a negative impression on potential buyers. A third-party “smell test” can help you identify and address any issues before showings. It’s also a good idea to avoid smoking inside, as this can be a major deterrent for many buyers.
No matter the condition, location, or challenges, every home has a buyer when the price is right. Even if your home is on a busy street or has some less-than-ideal features, pricing it correctly is the key to attracting the right buyer. Working with a realtor who understands the market can help you set a fair price that reflects your home’s unique characteristics and ensures a successful sale.
