Quick Ways to Sell a Home

Many home sellers are anxious to have their home sold, wherein they can access their equity and move on to purchase their dream home. Due to a slow real estate market, many properties for sale remain on the market for several months. Homeowners who buy a new home before their old home sells often juggle two mortgage payments, which create a financial strain.

There are plenty of ways to sell your home quickly. Because realtor commissions are hefty, many homeowners choose to sell their properties themselves and avoid paying a large percentage. While this approach saves money, it can also result in fewer bids. Realtors are familiar with successful marketing tactics, and they know how to reach potential homebuyers. Homeowners typically work full-time jobs and lead busy lives, and cannot spend a lot of time advertising their homes for sale. Thus, for sale by owners have to take advantage of every opportunity to get their home noticed.

A realtor conducts a general walk through and makes helpful suggestions. For example, a realtor may recommend de-cluttering a space, landscaping, or minor repairs. Simple changes make the home more appealing, and encourage multiple offers. If a realtor isn't consulted, homeowners may slack on important details.

Here are four ways to quickly sell a FSBO.

1. Make Minor Upgrades

Some homeowners spend a lot of money on major upgrades before placing their property on the market. Potential buyers have their unique style, and may not appreciate the improvements. Rather, make simple repairs. Is their a small hole in the hole? Do the walls need touch-up paint? Is the fence missing a few boards?

2. Remove Junk from Home and Yard

Potential buyers want to walk into your home and visualize their furniture in the space. If the home is a cluttered mess, potential buyers are distracted and will fail to notice the spacious layout, unique floor plan, etc. Before placing the sign in the front yard, spend at least a week removing unnecessary junk for each room. Organize closets, tidy the garage, and clean the front and back yard. Ahead of a showing, thoroughly clean the interior.

3. Advertise the Property for Sale

FSBO signs attract attention to your home, but the traffic is limited. Yard signs are only visible to buyers who drive through the neighborhood. If looking for massive exposure, post signs at the neighborhood entrance. Local real estate classified ads are effective. Additionally, host a couple of open houses. This way, potential buyers can visit your home and receive more information about the property.

4. Keep the Pets Outdoors

If a potential buyer steps foot in your home and immediately detects a family pet, you've just lost that sale. Pet odor and noticeable hair may be the thing that keeps your house on the market for several months. If family pets have ruined the carpet, replace it - or at least have it professionally cleaned. Once the carpet is fresh and pet hair vacuumed, keep your pets outdoors or in the garage.