While the real estate market has been in decline for several years, over the past six months, some homes are finally starting to sell – indicting 2013 may be a better year for home sellers. This recent activity may be due to buyers’ increased confidence in the housing market or an improvement in their financial situations. But when you add this confidence with low interest rates and higher rents, you have buyers who are ready to purchase.

So if you’re looking to sell in 2013, it’s time to start planning and taking action to get your home on market. Here are 6 tips to help you generate interest in your home and get it sold for the best price possible.

1. Find an experienced real estate agent with a successful sales record. A good real estate agent understands the market. They know the neighborhood. They can help you price your home to sell. They can handle negotiations when offers come in. And they have the skills and networking connections to get your home sold.
2. Understand your competition. Get the “comps” on other homes sold in your area. Go to open houses to see what’s on the market now. With this information, you’ll have a better idea on how to price your home to sell and what you can do to make your home more attractive to potential buyers.
3. Price your home to sell. Work with your real estate agent to determine a price based on the sales prices of other homes that have sold in your area in the past couple of months. If you really want to be competitive, consider going 10-15% below the sales price on comparable homes. This will make your home will look like a great deal to potential buyers. But whatever you do, make sure your price is fair and not too out of line with other homes on the market.
4. Have your property inspected. By having your home inspected before you sell, you can identify any potential problems upfront. Then you can either make the repairs or price your home based upon what needs to be fixed. Buyers often want a home in “move-in” condition. So by fixing the problems before you sell your home, you’re removing any concerns potential buyers may have. Plus, you’ll be offering them a home that they start enjoying right away.
5. Stage your home. Paint walls in neutral colors. Clean carpets. Remove clutter. Remove furniture to make rooms look bigger. Pack up personal items like family photos, religious décor or other memorabilia. You may want to consider hiring a designer or stager who can help you make these decisions, especially if your home needs any remodeling to update its appearance and make it more appealing to buyers.
6. Improve your home’s curb appeal. Add a fresh coat of exterior paint. Update windows or doors. Install new roofing. Update the landscaping and make sure the lawn is mowed frequently. Set up outdoor furniture to create inviting places for entertaining or relaxing, so buyers can visualize themselves living there.

Selling a home requires planning and a little extra work. But in the long run, it’s worth it when the sales process goes smoother. Plus, by following these tips, you’ll increase the odds of your home being sold at a price you want.

If you’re in the market for a new home in 2013, Grandview Lending can help you find the right mortgage that meets your needs. Call us at 866.690.4920 to talk to one of our experienced mortgage specialists.