If you are truly serious about selling your home in Wilmington, NC, then you need to beat your competition. To accomplish this, you must avoid mistakes that sellers typically make. That way you will seller your home quicker and for more money!

1. Right price – It is crucial to price your home right from the beginning. Don’t overprice it initially, hoping for an offer. Overpriced homes get overlooked by buyers who cannot afford it or they get a better deal elsewhere.

2. Condition – Your home needs to be in pristine condition for a quick sale at top dollar. Buyers are discouraged by homes that need to be fixed up. Instead, they are looking for the model home in move-in condition. If a buyer does consider a fixer upper, they typically deduct more off the sales price than it would cost you to do it up front.

3. Curb appeal – First impression says it all when it comes to selling your home. That is why ” curb appeal”  is critically important for a quick sale. Be sure to spend some time on the landscaping, exterior of the home including the front entrance, windows, porches and decks. Even a new light fixture or hardware for the front door make a tremendous improvement. And, don’t forget some potted flowers.

4. Bright and fresh – Buyers are looking for the fresh paint and bright decor. Always use neutral colors. In addition, freshly cleaned carpet or new carpet can make a huge improvement. Make your home sparkle. Clean and de-clutter every room thoroughly. Get rid of all junk and debris inside and out.

5. Over improvement – Do not spend so much on improvements that you will not recover your investment.

6. Financing – Be sure to accept all types of financing including VA and FHA. You also may want to offer closing costs or other buyer incentives.

7. Don’t go it alone – Always choose a knowledgeable and experienced listing agent to assist you. Sellers who try to sell their own home, often net less from the sale.

8. Showings – Always plan to be away from the home when it is being shown or if an open house is scheduled. Buyers feel more comfortable viewing the home if the seller is not underfoot.

9. Be positive – Approach negotations in a postive manner. Remember, you both want to accomplish a common goal. Let your agent do the job of negotiating your best terms.

10. Offers – Always reply immediately. When buyers make an offer, they are in the mood to buy right then. Do not give them time to cool off.

Kay Baker can provide the most up to date sales data for your Wilmington NC home. To sell your home quickly, please contact her at kay@cbbaker.com.