A few years ago you could put a home for sale and go to closing in a reasonably quickly time. But that is no longer the case and its now more important than ever to be ahead of other sellers if you’re to secure a quick sale.

Here are some tips to help you out:

1. Understand your reasons for selling

Your reasons for selling will usually play a big part in determining the value you price your home and your overall sales strategy. Decide what is more important to you: the amount you fetch for the sale or the length of time your home will be on the market for.

2. Hire A First-Rate Real Estate Agent

Choose an agent with experience, a strong track record and aggressive marketing plan. Especially now when the market is down, you would want someone who has worked through a down market before.

Avoid choosing a realtor based on personal relationships as you will likely to be short-changed.

3. Sell first and move later

Vacant homes tend to be difficult to sell as they look forlon. Besides, it will give buyers an edge in negotiations since it will seem that you’re in a hurry to sell.

4. Price The Property Right

Its easy to believe that your house is worth more than it really is. Know your market and be prepared to reduce the price – if necessary consult a realtor who will help you set a realistic asking price.

5. Make the most of that first impression

A well-kempt lawn, neatly trimmed shrubs, presentable porch and freshly painted door can help make a very good first impression.

6. Present The Property In Its Best Light

Rearrange furniture and declutter so that you home can look its best for a sale. If you can afford it, ask an interior designer or professional stager to give you recommendations on how to make your house look that much better.

7. Offer Enticements

Offer incentives, such as throwing in an entertainment system or paying closing costs, to attract potential buyers, especially if your property is high end.

8. Make room for space

Potential buyers will be looking for storage space in addition to comfortable living space. Make sure attics and basements are clean and tidied up.

9. Home Inspections

Your buyer will most likely hire a home inspector prior to buying. But hiring your own home inspector in advance can help you identify anything that should be fixed prior to attempting to sell.

Also property disclosure laws, which differ from state to state, require that sellers list any flaws to their properties. If you attempt to cover up any flaws, you might easily find yourself in court.

10. Marketing Your Home

Use as many advertising methods, such as a yard sign, local print advertising and an internet property profile, as you can comfortably afford.

Make sure when potential buyers call you have information ready for them about your house. If working with a realtor, ask them to put in place a 24hr recorded hotline in place if possible. Relying on open house techniques is not as effective as it was before, so try to find other ways to give information to your potential buyers.

It might also help to leave a key or lockbox with your realtor / agent so your home can be shown to potential buyers when you are not around.

Find out whatever information you can about the buyer as it can give you an upper hand when it comes to negotiating.

If you’re in a hurry to sell, make sure you have done your homework and don’t settle for the first offer that comes your way. When you look desperate, you will only attract low bidders.

14. Refusing to Trust Your Agent

If you have chosen the right agent, who has your best interests at heart, leave it to them to outline and implement the sale strategy. Interfering will only delay the sale of your home. 

15. Rent The Property

If you have already moved out of the house and it wont sell, consider renting the property to get some income while continuing to look for a seller. However, there is a risk that your tenants might not maintain the home in pristine condition which can end up affecting its value.