Every homeowner on the street usually celebrates a big home sale in the neighbourhood. Well, that’s because when houses sell for top dollar, it is a sign your neighbourhood is a hotspot. So, chances are your property will also show a higher price in a house value calculator in Canada, and buyers will be willing to pay more for it.
Sure, the “desirable neighbourhood factor” will work in your favour to some extent. However, you will also need to do your fair share to get the most money out of your home sale. Below are some proven strategies to help you sell your home for the highest price possible.
Tried-and-True Strategies to Help You Sell Your Home for the Highest Possible Price
1. Clear Out the Clutter and Personal Items
Imagine walking into a store where everything is messy, crowded, and disorganized. You wouldn’t feel like spending a lot of time and money in the store, right? The same goes for your home. Buyers want to see a space that feels open, clean, and easy to picture themselves living in. This is why, before listing your home for sale, declutter the space. Remove extra furniture, personal decorations, and anything that makes rooms feel small, crowded, and cluttered. Pack up family photos, unique decorations, and personal items so buyers can see the space as their own.
2. First Impressions Matter – Boost That Curb Appeal
If your home’s exteriors look uninviting and neglected, many buyers won’t even bother stepping inside. So, boost the curb appeal of your home with these simple but effective steps:
- Mow the lawn and trim overgrown bushes
- Power-wash the driveway and walkway
- Paint the front door or give it a fresh polish
- Add a simple welcome mat and a few potted plants
- Replace a rusted mailbox
3. Fix the Little Things That Could Scare Buyers Away
Loose handles, burnt-out lightbulbs, small holes, chipped wall paint, and squeaky doors – a house value calculator in Canadawill not take into account these small issues in your home. But a potential homebuyer certainly will, and they may think of your house as a “fixer-upper.” If you don’t want this to happen, walk through your home with a fresh pair of eyes, find the little things that could scare buyers away, and fix them.
4. Upgrade the Right Features, Not Everything
When it comes to renovations and upgrades, focus on the areas and features that buyers value the most. The kitchen and bathrooms are usually two of the most important spaces in a home. So, if your kitchen cabinets are outdated but still in good shape, consider painting them and updating the hardware instead of replacing them completely. Swapping out old countertops for a fresh, modern look can also make a big impact. In the bathroom, replacing old faucets, mirrors, and light fixtures can make the space feel brand new.
5. Stage Your Home to Make It Irresistible
Home staging is all about making your home look its absolute best. You don’t have to hire a professional stager for this (although that can help). However, you should make sure every room looks inviting and well put together. You must start by arranging furniture in a way that makes the space feel open and functional. Remove anything that makes the rooms look too crowded. Use natural bedding, towels, and decor to create a fresh, clean look. Small touches like putting a bowl of fresh fruits in the kitchen can also make the home feel welcoming.
6. Market Your Home with High-Quality Photos
In today’s digital world, most buyers start their search online. Hence, you must make sure your listing photos instantly grab the buyers’ attention. Hiring a professional photographer can help you get these high-quality photos of your home. But if you prefer, you can also take charge of this task by renting or borrowing the equipment. Just make sure your home is well-lit, clutter-free and photographed from the best angles.
7. Be Flexible with Showings
If buyers can’t see your home when it’s convenient for them, they might move on to another property quickly. This is why, try to be as flexible as possible with showing times. Also, keep your home clean and ready for showings at all times of the day or week. This way, you will never be caught off guard when a potential buyer wants to stop by.
8. Price It Right from Day One
If your home sits on the market for too long, buyers may assume something is wrong with it, and you might have to lower your price later anyway. So, price your home right from day one. Research similar homes in your area and see what they are selling for. Your realtor can also help you set a competitive price that attracts buyers while still getting you top dollar.
9. Sweeten the Deal with Incentives
Sometimes, offering a little incentive can help push buyers to make an offer. For example, you could offer to cover closing costs, include high-end appliances or provide a home warranty. These small incentives can make your home more attractive and help you sell faster.
10. Work with an Expert Realtor
A skilled real estate agent can make all the difference when selling your home. They know how to price your home competitively and market it effectively to attract serious buyers. The experienced realtor can also handle negotiations to make sure you get the best possible price. They will guide you through the entire process from listing to closing.
Every Home Sale is Different – Keep That in Mind!
The above strategies can definitely help you get the best price for your home. But at the end of the day, keep in mind that every house and selling situation is different. Maybe your neighbour’s home had a fully upgraded kitchen with brand-new appliances, while yours is a little older. The housing market might also have been red-hot with tons of buyers competing for homes when your neighbour listed their property.
What we mean to say is that you can’t assume you will get the same high price as your neighbour’s home. All you can do is apply the right strategies and partner with an expert realtor. With the right approach and guidance, you will put yourself in the best position to get top dollar for your home – even if it is not exactly what your neighbour got.