How To Prepare Your Home Before Selling

By Ted Holmes

A lifelong resident of Chappaqua, Ted began his career as a mortgage loan officer over 20 years ago, eventually co-owning The Asset Center, Inc., a mortgage brokerage firm in Armonk, NY.

When it comes to selling your home, preparation is key. Whether you plan to sell in the next six weeks, six months, or even six years, it’s never too early to start educating yourself. Many homeowners fail to plan far enough ahead, which can lead to missed opportunities.

When a neighbor lists their home, what’s your first reaction? Perhaps you’re surprised by the asking price, or if they’ve priced too low and might leave money on the table. Ultimately, buyers set the market price, and your home’s value is determined by what someone is willing to pay.

To ensure your home stands out and achieves maximum value, follow these three essential steps:

1. Research the market. Begin by exploring websites like Realtor.com, Homes.com, or Zillow to familiarize yourself with the local market. Look at homes currently for sale and those sold in the past six months. Pay close attention to listing descriptions, photos, and marketing remarks to identify what resonates with buyers.

2. Filter your search. Narrow your focus to comparable homes in your neighborhood or local market. Analyze the details thoroughly to spot trends and key selling points. This will give you valuable insights into how homes in your area are presented online and what buyers value most.

3. Make your listing stand out online. Your home’s first showing happens online, so it’s crucial to make an excellent impression. A skilled real estate agent will ensure your home is presented professionally to attract buyers and secure the best price. Their expertise in staging, photography, and online marketing can make a significant difference.

Following these steps will help you navigate the selling process with confidence. When the time comes to interview agents, you’ll be able to distinguish between average agents and those who can effectively showcase your home to get outstanding results.

The time and effort you invest in preparing your home and choosing the right agent will be well worth it. If you have any questions or need assistance, contact me at (914) 548-6179 or email ted.holmes@raveis.com. Let’s make your home market ready!